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Tula
Lokahi
USA
169 Posts |
 Posted - 12/23/2013 : 11:37:26 AM
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Hapa
The evolution of Hapa as one of the most imaginative and diverse Hawaiian groups continues with the addition of their newest member, singer-songwriter Ron Kuala'au. Born in Honolulu and raised in Kailua on the windward side of O'ahu, Ron's earliest memories are of large family gatherings with lots of music and singing. In the early 1980s Ron moved to Maui and began performing professionally, finding audiences who resonated with his soulful vocals and beautifully penned Hawaiian songs. After releasing five full length solo albums, Ron joins Hapa to the delight of founding member and Hapa's songwriter, Barry Flanagan.
"Ron was one of my first Hawaiian music teachers and one of the main influences on the "Hapa sound" that we found in the 1980's," says Barry. "His harmony and guitar arrangements left an indelible mark on me and that inspiration can certainly be heard on our first self-titled Hapa release."
Ron agrees, adding that both performers were equally inspired by each other's music. "Barry and I go way back, we have a 30 year friendship built on our music and our love for expanding traditional and contemporary Hawaiian themes. I think we influenced each other a lot early on in our careers. We stretched our creative boundaries and always experimented with instrumentation and arrangements.
Joining Barry and Hapa feels like a reunion of sorts for Ron. "I've enjoyed Hapa's music all of these years, so it's really exciting for me to be a part of this legendary group. Hapa has always pushed the boundaries, reaching across world genres in creating their unique and eloquent artistry combining music, chant and dance. My hope is to continue Hapa's evolution in exploring new ways to express aloha through music."
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Tula |
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HAPA MARCH 29, 2014
