 This week on Pakele Live! with Tony Solis we’re hosting a CD release party for Mark Yamanaka’s debut solo album, Lei Pua Kenikeni. Mark’s guests will include multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winners Kūpaoa, Halau Hi'iakainamakalehua, and some surprises!
Mark began playing music while attending intermediate school in Hilo, beginning with the ‘ukulele and later teaching himself guitar. Soon thereafter, he discovered a talent for singing soaring falsettos. Although not of Hawaiian blood, he identifies strongly with the culture and music of the land of his birth. His dedication to the preservation of Hawaiian music and culture was recognized by his well-known kumu hula, Johnny Lum Ho, when Mark began studying with him in 1997.
Although Mark is the first professional musician in his family, vocal talent runs deep – dating back several generations to his great-grandmother, who sang for her church. Surrounded by song from an early age, he learned to appreciate both the music of Hawai’i and of the world. Major influences include Johnny Lum Ho, Gary Haleamau and Dennis Pavao, as well as Luther Vandross, Whitney Houston, Peabo Bryson and Mariah Carey.
For his debut album, Mark assembled a varied collection of favorite songs that showcase the depth of his talent, including some written by his mentor Johnny Lum Ho, one reaching back to the hymn-singing roots of his grandmother, one country favorite, and one Mark wrote for his daughter.
Join host Tony Solis in celebrating the release of this talented artist’s debut CD at Pakele Live! on Thursday, December 16 from 6-9 p.m. HST in the Pakele Lounge at the Ala Moana Hotel (410 Atkinson Dr., Honolulu). There is no cover or minimum, although your purchase of two drinks or soft drinks helps ensure the continuation of the Pakele Live! concert series. All ages are welcome, and free parking is available next door at Ala Moana Shopping Center.
You may also watch the show live online at: http://www.pakelelive.com/
(If you watch online, please email the show at pakele @ lava.net and let us know you’re watching! Mention your name and where you’re located - city, state – or country, if outside the U.S.!)
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Mark Yamanaka CD rel party, Pakele Live 12/16
Posted - 12/15/2010 : 10:22:54 PM
