Makana is an internationally acclaimed Slack Key guitarist, singer, composer, philosopher, activist and one of Hawai‘i's cultural ambassadors to the world. He is considered the youngest authority on his art form and recognized as one of the top guitarists in the US by Guitar Player Magazine
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kuleana

In the Hawaiian mind, rights and responsibility are one and the same. They are two sides to a coin, dependent upon each other. The Hawaiians call this KULEANA. These are my Kuleana. They concern me, they inspire me, they ask of me a simple question….

 
 

UPCOMING events

 
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NEW ALBUM RELEASE

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NEW ALBUM RELEASE ᐱᐱᐱ

 

Makana’s newest album Pūlama: Legacies of Hawai’i celebrates the rich heritage of kī hō’alu (slack key guitar), ‘ukulele and leo (voice). Inspired by legends of the Hawaiian music renaissance like George Helm, Gabby “Pops” Pahinui, Dennis Kamakahi and The Sunday Mānoa, Makana’s sublime solo performance offers heartfelt homage to the true spirit and sound of the broad traditions of Hawaiian song.

 

slack key

Spain features Flamenco. Brazil boasts Bossa Nova. Hawai'i has Hawaiian Slack Key. An art form with indigenous Hawaiian origins of over 150 years, Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar or Kī Hō'alu was born when the Mexican vaqueros (cowboys) gifted their Hawaiian counterparts with the guitar who then adapted and evolved it. After long days managing cattle on Maui and Hawai’i island ranches, they would often spend evenings playing music together by the campfire.

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Join Me On Patreon

 
 
 

Learn ‘ukulele & Slack Key from Makana, get access to exclusive online concerts, new music, merch & more!

Patreon is a secure platform for artists to connect directly with their fans. It’s where I offer all sorts of amazing experiences to my most supportive fans, from private music courses to special events, signed limited-edition CDs, LPs and more!