The Hawaii music scene took another hit yesterday when Kaulana Pakele drowned while surfing at Makaha beach on Oahu. At least he went out doing what he loved but he was only 47 years old. I never met Kaulana but went to high school with one of his current band mates in Mana’o Company. Kaulana first got recognition and awards with the band Ehukai and won several Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, the Hawaiian version of the Grammys.
In 2000 he became lead singer in Mana’o Company, one of the early bands in the popular Jawaiian scene (Hawaiian reggae). They had a bunch of big hits on Hawaii radio and beyond.
He had a beautiful voice, was a talented musician and will be missed by all that came in contact with his music and personality. This seems like the proper video for him to send his final Aloha! RIP Kaulana!
Gah, that sucks. Too young. Be safe, everyone.
That’s terrible. You can tell he had kind eyes. Thanks for sharing with us though.
I’m sorry to hear this. Fate has not been kind to the Islands lately.
He radiates warmth – condolences.