[Recommended for ukulele singing and playing!] Classic Hawaiian music masterpieces

E Pili Mai (Epili Mai)

E Pili Mai 'Epili Mai' Keali‘i Reichel / Hawaiian Song [Ukulele Super Easy Version with Chords & Lesson] Easy Ukulele

Peter Moon is an indispensable figure when talking about Hawaiian music.

Among his songs, the one I especially recommend is “E Pili Mai.” It has a truly beautiful sound, and amazingly, you can play it with just five chords.

The lyrics are also part of its charm—they’re beautifully written and express a vow of eternal love.

Check out the lyrics and try singing it with feeling.

Incidentally, this song is deeply connected to Hawaiian history, which also makes it an ideal introduction to Hawaiian music.

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Iāʻoe E Ka LāPalani Vaughan

Palani Vaughan – Iāʻoe E Ka Lā (Official Music Video)

Palani Vaughan, known as an important bearer of Hawaiian music traditions, left behind masterpieces that convey the glory of the Hawaiian Kingdom to the present day.

Among his album series honoring the Kingdom’s seventh monarch, this gem combines a gentle, soothing melody with profound historical depth.

Beginning with the 1973 release of the album “Ia ‘Oe E Ka Lā – Vol.

1,” the series was produced in four volumes through 1980.

This work continues to be cherished by many hula dancers as an embodiment of Hawaiian traditional music and its rich culture.

Its unhurried, graceful melody is ideal for moments of relaxation or as background music for hula practice.

Please enjoy this track, which encapsulates the essence of Vaughan—an inductee of the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame.

Pua HoneBrothers Cazimero

Pua Hone

This timeless song beautifully expresses feelings for a loved one through a gentle, translucent melody and heartwarming lyrics.

Performed by Hawaii’s iconic duo, the Brothers Cazimero, it’s a gem that blends traditional Hawaiian sounds with modern arrangements.

Included on the 1978 album Ho‘āla, the song was written and composed by Dennis Kamakahi.

Its acoustic instrumentation and refined harmonies weave a lovely tune that washes over the heart like calm waves.

The unhurried rhythm and soothing tones are perfect for the graceful movements of hula.

It also makes a wonderful soundtrack for quiet nights—an ideal choice when you want to relax and feel the Hawaiian breeze.

Ka Hīnano O PunaKainani Kahaunaele

Ka Hīnano O Puna

Heartwarming Hawaiian music infused with the rich nature and culture of Hawaiʻi Island.

The songs woven by Hawaiʻi-born singer-songwriter Kainani Kahaunaele gracefully portray the beautiful landscapes and traditions of the Puna region.

Blossoming wildflowers, passing winds, and the legend of Pele, goddess of the volcano—these uniquely Hawaiian elements of nature and myth harmonize beautifully in this piece.

First featured on the March 2003 album “Naʻu ʻOe,” it was released by ʻAha Pūnana Leo, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting the Hawaiian language.

With its gentle, soothing melodies, this is a recommended song for those who wish to connect with the spirit of Hawaiʻi, or for those seeking a deeply meaningful accompaniment for hula.

Mai `Italia Ko Lei NaniKaumakaiwa Kanaka`ole

“Mai ‘Italia Ko Lei Nani”, Sung By Kaumakaiwa Kanaka’ole With Shawn Pimental

The beautiful melodies performed by Kaumakaiwa Kanaka‘ole, a renowned musician who carries Hawaiian traditional music into the present, gracefully portray the historical tale surrounding King Kalākaua’s coronation in February 1883.

This heartwarming piece honors the dignity and grace of Queen Kapi‘olani and includes praise for the lavish crown imported from Italy.

Brought to life through a collaboration with guitarist Shawn Pimental, the work breathes new vitality into a traditional mele.

Its unhurried, chant-like melody and gentle rhythm weave a soothing soundscape—perfect for moments of calm or for immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture.

E Apo MaiNathan Aweau

Nathan Aweau – E Apo Mai (2001)

This is a standout track with a warm melody that gently embraces the heart and soul of Hawaii.

Nathan Aweau, known as a versatile musician, crafted this gem of a love song in Hawaiian for the first time.

Included on his March 2002 album “E Apo Mai,” the piece was created with deep respect and love for his family.

Its clear, soaring vocals and a simple yet resonant melodic line weave an exquisite harmony.

It’s perfect for peaceful mornings or moments when you want to calm your mind.

Beloved as an accompaniment for hula as well, it continues to be cherished by many fans as a masterpiece where tradition and modernity blend beautifully.

Lei PakalanaNā Wai ʻ Ehā

Lei Pakalana

A harmony group formed by two sets of brothers from Maui, Nā Wai ʻEhā delivers a beautiful piece wrapped in gentle warmth.

Centered on the theme of the pakalana lei, a traditional Hawaiian flower, its graceful melody resonates deeply.

Featured on their November 2018 album “Nā Wai ʻEhā,” this track showcases the members’ clear, pristine vocals carried by the soft tones of ukulele and slack-key guitar.

While cherishing elements of traditional Hawaiian music, the captivating, modern-tinged sound design has won the hearts of many listeners.

Perfect for peaceful moments or as background music for hula practice, it creates a truly blissful atmosphere.