The
Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau formed in 1976. The Hawaiian Music
Renaissance was underway with young Hawaiians applying contemporary
rhythms to traditional Hawaiian songs.
With
their sweet harmonies, fresh sound, and their uncompromising
devotion to Hawaiian music and values they quickly became
one of the most beloved groups at the time.
Led by the charismatic Skippy Kamakawiwo'ole the Makaha
Sons of Ni'ihau included Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, Moon Kauakahi,
Jerome Koko, Sam Gray, Melvin Amina, Abraham Nahulu and
Elmer Lim Jr. In five years they recorded five albums, No
Kristo, Kahea O Keale, Ke'ala, Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau,
and Mahalo Ke Akua.
With five hit records, and performing widely throughout
Hawai'i, they were poised to take their music to the next
level. But a massive heart attack felled Skippy Kamakawiwo'ole
in 1982 ending an era for the Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau. Following
Skippy's death the Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau carried on, recording
four more albums.
The
music of the early years, 1976 through 1981, were the pillars
of this extraordinary group. Volume 1 of Na Mele Henoheno
- Na Makahiki Mua -helu 'ekahi, features songs from
the first three albums.
