Hailing from O‘ahu, Makana is an internationally acclaimed slack-key guitarist, singer, composer, philosopher, activist, and one of Hawaii’s cultural ambassadors to the world. He is recognized as one of the top guitarists in the United States by Guitar Player magazine, and was honored by his peers in Hawai‘i with the Ki Ho‘alu (Slack Key) Foundation Legacy Award. His songs range from traditional to highly original, both instrumental and lyrical, exploring a broad spectrum of themes: cultural, philosophical, sociopolitical, economic, interpersonal, sensual, and universal, often through the lens of humor and a piercing wit. National Geographic says, “he has taken this centuries-old tradition and blasted it into the 21st century.”

Praised for her spellbinding vocals and ability to stir the deepest emotions with her soulful melodies, Paula Fuga has established herself as one of Hawai’i’s most sought-after live performers. Her first release Lilikoi earned her the Na Hoku Award (Hawai‘i’s “Grammy”) for Most Promising Artist of the Year in 2007. A blend of tradition and evolution, her music features soul and jazz–infused lyrics, seamlessly mixing English and Hawaiian languages, supported by traditional Hawaiian instruments like the nose flute and ‘ukulele. 

visit the Makana website

visit the Paula Fuga website