What Do These 4 Musicians Have in Common?
The ukulele first appeared in Hawaii in the 1800s. It has had a current upswing in popularity with Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours,” but has been an international fan-favorite in mainstream music for decades. Here are a few famous ukulele musicians; and as it turns out, they all sport handcrafted, professional-grade instruments from Kanile’a ‘Ukulele in Kaneohe, HI.
4 International Ukulele Musicians
1. Willie K
Willie K is likely the most well-known and successful ukulele player, and he has world-famous fans, like Prince and President Obama. He plays a specialized Willie K super tenor from Kanile’a that has a 19” scale length, as opposed to the traditional 17”. It has five strings and is made of curly Koa. He signed the fretboard between the 12th and 15th frets. He owns three Kanile’a instruments and is currently working with the company to save Hawaii’s forest.
2. Sean Na’auao
Sean has a Jamaican-Reggae sound and plays on Kanile’a’s Tenor size ukulele. Known as a legend and one of the forefathers of Jawaiian music, he has toured internationally, bringing his unique style – and ukulele – cross the world.
3. Jonah Kahanuola Solatario
Famous for his music with the group Keauhou, Jonah plays a KSE tenor and a 2018 Platinum model, both with four strings from Kanile’a. Keauhou won 14 Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards with their first two albums, and their third was released last year which won three more.
4. Kapena Delima
Before switching to drums, this musician played the keyboard for the famous group Kapena for 11 years. He’s now the owner and head engineer of Bu Print studios. Since this professional sound engineer has an award-winning ear for music, Kapena also plays a Kanile’a guitarlele with six strings.
If you want to play on a high-quality instrument like these professionals, head to Kanile’a ‘Ukulele in Kaneohe, HI. For over 20 years, these craftsmen have designed and manufactured the best instruments for novices and professional musicians across the world. Each of their signature products varies in grain, curl, and color, making your selection one-of-a-kind. View their selection online, or call (808) 234-2868 to speak with a specialist about a custom design.
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