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Choosing Hula Dance Songs: Timeless Classics that Evoke Hawaii’s Healing Spirit and Culture

Hula, the traditional Hawaiian performing art that heals the mind and body.

What’s essential to its gentle movements and beautiful expression is Hawaiian music.

From timeless classics sung by iconic Hawaiian artists like Don Ho and Teresa Bright to contemporary sounds like Te Vaka, the world of hula is truly profound.

Let yourself drift on soothing, relaxing melodies or let your heart dance to bright, cheerful rhythms.

Why not explore Hawaii’s culture and history through its music?

Choosing Hula Dance Songs: Timeless Classics (51–60) that Capture Hawaii’s Healing Spirit and Culture

PālehuaAmy Hanaiali’i

Born from the awe inspired by the magnificent beauty of Oahu’s mountains, this song is a gem by Hawaii’s iconic songstress Amy Hānaialiʻi and her collaborator Willie K.

Traditional Hawaiian falsetto vocals blend seamlessly with the gentle tones of slack-key guitar, creating a soothing tenderness that comforts the listener.

Released in 1998 and included on the album “Hānaialiʻi,” it has remained a staple for hula, danced by many hālau, and was selected by Honolulu Magazine as one of the “50 Greatest Songs of All Time.” In June 2023, to mark its 25th anniversary, new versions in French and Japanese were added, transforming it into a work that resonates with even more people.

It’s a perfect song for anyone wishing to relax and feel the culture and nature of Hawaiʻi.

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E Maliu MaiEmma Veary

A song distinguished by a beautiful melody that washes over the heart like gentle waves.

The clear, soaring voice of Hawaiian soprano Emma Veary evokes the islands’ great natural beauty and soft breezes.

Featured on the 1976 album “Emma At The Royal,” this piece was recorded live in the Monarch Room of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, a prestigious landmark in Hawaii.

As one of Emma’s signature works—she received the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994—it conveys the full charm of Hawaiian music.

Perfect not only as background music for hula, but also for moments of relaxation or when you want to soothe the soul.

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Hi’ilaweGabby Pahinui

Hi’ilawe, themed after Hi’ilawe Falls, a popular tourist spot in Hawaii, is a piece marked by a soothing melody and a relaxed tempo that feels quintessentially Hawaiian.

Rather than singing directly about the falls, it portrays a love story set against the backdrop of Hi’ilawe Falls.

The lyrics are quite bittersweet, so if you’re curious, be sure to check out the Japanese-to-English translation as well.

The most famous version is Gabby Pahinui’s “Hi’ilawe.”

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Honolulu City LightsKeola & Kapono Beamer

This Hawaiian classic, performed by the brothers Keola Beamer and Kapono Beamer with their harmonized vocals and guitar, can make even those who have never been to Hawaii feel its spirit—music anyone can enjoy.

The seamless sibling harmonies and the guitar at the beginning are especially soothing.

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Choosing Hula Dance Songs: Classic Tracks (61–70) That Evoke Hawaii’s Healing Spirit and Culture

On A Little Bamboo BridgeMills Brothers

“On A Little Bamboo Bridge,” which was also covered in Japan under the title “Chiisana Take no Hashi de,” was composed in 1937 by the famous American composer Al Sherman and the American singer-songwriter Archie Fletcher.

The original version was sung by Louis Armstrong.

His warm voice matches beautifully with the song’s gentle expression, so be sure to check it out!

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In conclusion

Hawaiian music is known for its soothing qualities, but in fact each song carries deep history and culture.

Even within its relaxed melodies, you can sometimes feel strength, intensity, and even a touch of poignancy.

Why not experience the rich world of Hawaiian music together with the graceful movements of hula dance?