Section II: Recormmended Recordings and Other Information

Section II: Recommended Recordings and Other Information

(this is not meant to be a definitive recommendation site – rather, it is here as a place to begin researching the Hawaiian Slack Key guitar tradition. Other than the recordings, it may not be totally up to date – check the internet sites [section 9] for more up to date information)

For ordering recordings, books, and videos, you can contact:

  1. Hawaiian Music Island (www.mele.com): This site sells Hawaiian music and videos and other items, and has information on upcoming Slack Key and Hawaiian music events worldwide

  2. Harry's Music Store: 3457 Wai'alae Ave., Honolulu, HI, 96816; phone: 808-735-2866; fax: 808-734-2951.

Recommended Recordings

Index:

Beamer Brothers

 Moses Kahumoku Peter Moon

Keola Beamer

 Dennis Kamakahi Na Pali
Sonny Chillingworth Ray Kane Auntie Alice Namakelua

Cindy Combs

 John Keawe Lehua Kaapana Nash
Ken Emerson Hal Kinnaman Pahinui Brothers
Nolan Ha'o Ozzie Kotani Cyril Pahinui
Daniel Ho George Kuo Gabby Pahinui
Atta Isaacs Leonard Kwan James "Bla" Pahinui
Led Kaapana Leonard Kwan & Raymond Kane Various Artists
Nedward Kaapana Patrick Landeza Jim West
Kahumoku Brothers Ron Loo Yuki Alani Yamauchi
George Kahumoku, Jr. Mika'ele Mike McClellan Chris Yeaton

(* - not available on CD)

  • a. Gabby Pahinui albumns:
    · PURE GABBY (Hula Records 567) - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble - recorded in 1961 and issued in 1978.
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY, VOLUME 1 - WITH GABBY PAHINUI (Waikiki Records 319) - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1960
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY, VOLUME 2 - WITH GABBY PAHINUI (Waikiki Records 320 – with the same cover as VOLUME 1) – Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by Slack Key guitar and ensemble (and with the same cover as VOLUME 1) - 1960
    · THE BEST OF HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY WITH GABBY PAHINUI (Waikiki Records 340) - Vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble recordings from approximately the late 1950s or the early 1960s.
    · THE HISTORY OF SLACK KEY GUITAR -VINTAGE HAWAIIAN TREASURES, VOLUME 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000) - Compilation including Gabby’s 5 earliest recordings from the 1940s - two versions of Hi`ilawe originally issued on Bell Records and Aloha Records, and three other tracks from Bell Records - Hula Medley, Key Kohalu, and Wai O Ke Aniani. It also has 15 other reissued late 1940s and early 1950s tracks by 8 other Slack Key guitarists. - Also see Various Artists, section 46, #1 - To order, contact Cord International, PO Box 152, Ventura, CA 93002, 805-648-7881, www.cordinternational.com

    These next two albums are compilations from these five recordings on Hula Records -
    · GABBY PAHINUI WITH THE SONS OF HAWAI'I (#503);
    · MUSIC OF OLD HAWAII (#506);
    · THE MAILE SERENADERS - HAWAI'I'S FAVORITE SLACK KEY & STEEL GUITAR, VOLUME 2 (formerly titled KANI KA PILA! VOLUME 2 - #531);.
    · PURE GABBY(#567);
    · THE MAILE SERENADERS - HAWAI'I'S FAVORITE SLACK KEY & STEEL GUITAR, VOLUME 1 (formerly titled KANI KA PILA! VOLUME 1 - #517) - this album actually features Atta Isaacs rather than Gabby Pahinui. Also see Atta Isaacs, section 6):
    · THE BEST OF GABBY, VOLUME 1 - THE KING OF SLACK KEY (Hula Records 578) - (formerly titled KA MAKANA A PAHINUI {THE GIFT OF PAHINUI} - The songs Nani Ko'olau, 'Ulili E, Kona Kai 'Opua and He'eia actually feature Atta Isaacs on slack key guitar rather than Gabby Pahinui. Also see Atta Isaacs, section 6..
    · THE BEST OF GABBY, VOLUME 2 (Hula Records 585) - The song He'eia actually features Atta Isaacs on slack key guitar instead of Gabby Pahinui; the song Ia 'Oe E Ka La and Kananaka feature Peter Moon on slack key guitar, with Gabby Pahinui on steel guitar - Also see Peter Moon, section 20.

    b. Gabby Pahinui with Eddie Kamae & the Sons of Hawai'i:
    · GABBY PAHINUI WITH THE SONS OF HAWAI'I (Hula Records 503) - 1962
    · MUSIC OF OLD HAWAI'I (Hula Records 506) - 1964
    · AN ISLAND HERITAGE (Panini Records 1001) - 1971

    c. The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band (also featuring slack key guitarists Atta Isaacs, Sonny Chillingworth, Cyril Pahinui and Bla Pahinui):
    · GABBY (often called the "Brown Album") (Panini Records 1002) - 1972
    · THE RABBIT ISLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL (Panini Records 1004) - 1973
    · GABBY PAHINUI HAWAIIAN BAND, VOLUME 1 (Panini Records 1007) - 1975
    · GABBY PAHINUI HAWAIIAN BAND, VOLUME 2 (Panini Records 1008) - 1977

    · THE WAIMEA MUSIC FESTIVAL (Panini Records 1006) - Includes five tracks by The Gabby Band, as well as other artists. - 1974
    · BEST OF THE GABBY BAND 1972-1977 (Panini Records 1010) - Has t

    d. Gabby Pahinui with the Maile Serenaders:
    · HAWAI'I'S FAVORITE SLACK KEY & STEEL GUITAR, VOLUME 2 (formerly KANI KA PILA! VOLUME 2) (Hula Records 531) - Instrumentals - Especially the songs Nanea Kou Maka and Kahuli Aku. Two songs, Kananaka and 'Ia 'Oe E Ka La, actually feature Peter Moon on slack key guitar instead of Gabby Pahinui. - 1969
    · EVENING IN THE ISLANDS - THE MAILE SERENADERS (Hula Records 509)* - Especially the song Pearly Shells. - 1964
    · IN HAWAI'I THE STORY STARTS (Waikiki Records 334 - out-of-print) - Especially the songs Lei E, Meleana E and Keawaiki. recordings from approximately the late 1950s or the early 1960s.

    e. Gabby Pahinui with Atta Isaacs:
    · TWO SLACK KEY GUITARS - A-LIVIN'-ON-EASY (Tradewinds Records 1124) - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble (the song March Medley is actually Ka Ua Noe and is a classic pure duet). Also contains four instrumental bonus tracks from Atta's out-of-print album ATTA: Mele Li'i, Kokohi-Moani Ke'ala, Na Molokama and Sweet Lei Lehua. - 1969

    f. Anthologies Including Gabby Pahinui:
    · THE HISTORY OF SLACK KEY GUITAR - VINTAGE HAWAIIAN TREASURES VOL. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000) - Compilation with Gabby's five earliest recordings from the 1940s: two versions of Hi'ilawe originally issued on Bell and Aloha Records, and three other tracks from the Bell label. Also includes fifteen other reissued 1940s and early 1950s tracks, by eight other slack key guitarists (also see Various Artists). To order, contact Cord International, PO Box 152, Ventura, CA 93002, 805-648-7881, www.cordinternational.com.

    g. Gabby Pahinui with Melveen Leed - See Melveen Leed in the Various Artists section.

  1. Sonny Chillingworth:
    · ENDLESSLY (Dancing Cat 38027) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. - 1999
    · SONNY SOLO (Dancing Cat 38005) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. - 1994
    · WAIMEA COWBOY (Lehua Records 2003) - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1964
    · SONNY CHILLINGWORTH (Lehua Records 2014 - out-of-print)* - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1965
    · KA 'AINA O HAWAI'I (Lehua Records 2040 - out-of-print)* - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1966
    · SONNY (Poki Records 9025 - out-of-print)* - 1977
    · HAWAI'I ALOHA: ECHOES OF OLD HAWAI'I (Waikiki Records 107 - out-of-print)* - Compilation with two songs from 1957 by Sonny, Slack Key Medley (Moana Chimes/Pa'ahana) and Whee Ha Swing (Slack Key II), from the out-of-print instrumental 45-rpms: MOANA PA'AHANA CHIMES (Waikiki Records 570) and WHEE HA SWING (Waikiki Records 571), which were recorded around 1957.
    · Also see Melveen Leed under Various Artists section 46, #3.
    · Also see Gabby Pahinui, section 1c, for The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band - Sonny plays on the recordings THE RABBIT ISLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL; THE GABBY PAHINUI HAWAIIAN BAND, VOLUME 1; THE GABBY PAHINUI HAWAIIAN BAND, VOLUME 2; and THE WAIMEA MUSIC FESTIVAL – this last live album also features two songs by Sonny fronting the Gabby Band.
    · Sonny also has two other fine out-of-print albums. Two more solo guitar releases are planned by Dancing Cat Productions.

  2. Leonard Kwan:
    · KE'ALA'S MELE (Dancing Cat 38004) - Instrumental guitar solos and one vocal track. - 1995
    · SLACK KEY [often called “the Red Album”] (Tradewinds Records 103 - Reissued with all of Leonard’s other early tracks on CD on Hana Ola Records HOCD 55000, with the title LEONARD KWAN–SLACK KEY MASTER–THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS) - Instrumentals with Slack Key guitar and ensemble – including six classic and influential original compositions by Leonard – album originally issued in 1960
    · THE OLD WAY (Tradewinds Records 1128 - Reissued with all of Leonard’s other early tracks on CD on Hana Ola Records HOCD 55000, with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN–SLACK KEY MASTER-THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS) – Instrumentals with Slack Key guitar and ensemble – originally issued in 1975
    · Also see Leonard Kwan & Raymond Kane, section 5.
    · One more solo guitar release is planned by Dancing Cat Records.

  3. Ray Kane:
    · WA'AHILA (Dancing Cat 38002) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. - 1998
    · PUNAHELE (Dancing Cat 38001) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. - 1994
    · NANAKULI'S RAYMOND KANE (Tradewinds Records 1130 - Reissued with all of Ray’s other early tracks on CD on Hana Ola Records HOCD 52000, with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE–OLD STYLE SLACK KEY–THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS) - Instrumentals accompanied by Slack Key guitar and ensemble – originally issued in 1975
    · HAWAIIAN SUNSET MUSIC VOL. 1 (Hula Records 604) - Slack Key instrumentals, also featuring Slack Key guitarist Michael Lowe – 1998
    · Also see Leonard Kwan & Raymond Kane, section 5
    · One more solo guitar release is planned by Dancing Cat Records.

  4. Leonard Kwan and Ray Kane (separate tracks for both guitarists):
    · SLACK KEY (often called the “Black & White Album”) (Tradewinds Records 107)* - the Leonard Kwan tracks are reissued with all of his other early tracks on CD on Hana Ola Records (HOCD 55000), with the title LEONARD KWAN–SLACK KEY MASTER–THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS. The original album contains seven songs by Leonard Kwan: Medley:Aia Hiki Mai/Koni Au/Palisa, Hawaiian Love, ‘Opihi Moemoe, Yellow Ginger Lei, Nahenahe, Kaneohe-Mama E, and Manini - Instrumentals with Slack Key guitar and ensemble - these tracks were all recorded in the late 1950s or early 1960s;

    the Raymond Kane tracks are reissued with all of his other early tracks on CD on Hana Ola Records (HOCD 52000), with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE-OLD STYLE SLACK KEY-THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS. The original album also has six songs by Ray Kane: Kila Kila Haleakala, Willy’s Tune, Meleana E (which is actually Auwe), Auwe (which is actually Meleana E), Punahele, and Wa`ahila – Instrumentals with Slack Key guitar and ensemble – these tracks were all recorded in the late 1950s or early 1960s
    · Also see Leonard Kwan, section 3
    · Also see Raymond Kane, section 4.

  5. Atta Isaacs:
    · TWO SLACK KEY GUITARS [A LIVIN’ ON A EASY] (Tradewinds Records 1124) - With Gabby Pahinui The song March Medley is actually called Ka Ua Noe and is a classic pure duet. The CD also contains four bonus tracks from the album ATTA (reissued as THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS–INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000): Mele Li`i, Kokohi -Moani Ke`ala, Na Molokama, and Sweet Lei Lehua - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by Slack Key guitar and ensemble – 1969 - Also see Gabby Pahinui, section 1e.

    ATTA [often called “the Orange Album”] (Tradewinds Records 1126 This album has been reissued as THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000); and with four tracks from the album TWO SLACK KEY GUITARS: Waltz Medley: Uluhua Wale Au / Pulupe / Sweet Lei Mamo, Noho Au A Kupa, Keali`i’s Mele, and Ka Ua Noe (The Misty Rain) - Instrumentals with Slack Key guitar and ensemble – recorded in 1971; and with two tracks from album THE NEW HAWAIIAN BAND (Hana Ola Classic Collector Series, Volume 7 HOCD 12000 - formerly released on Trim Records in 1975) – Atta’s Slack Key guitar is featured on the songs Maikai Makani/Kui Au and Green Rose Hula.
    The following albums feature Atta Isaacs playing some great backup guitar with ensembles:
    Atta is on five albums with THE GABBY PAHINUI HAWAIIAN BAND -- Also featuring Slack Key guitarists Atta Isaacs, Sonny Chillingworth, Cyril Pahinui, and Bla Pahinui, and others:
    · GABBY [often called “the Brown Album”] (Panini Records 1002) - Especially on the songs Ka Moa`e, Lei Ohu, and Luau Hula - 1972
    · THE RABBIT ISLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL (Panini Records 1004) - Especially on the songs Pua Maemae and Kaua’i Beauty - 1973
    · THE GABBY PAHINUI HAWAIIAN BAND, VOLUME 1 (Panini Records 1007) - Especially on the songs Aloha Ka Manini, Ka Moana Nui, Moani Ke’ala, and Wahini‘Ui - 1975
    · THE GABBY PAHINUI HAWAIIAN BAND, VOLUME 2 (Panini Records 1008) - Especially on the songs How’d Ya Do, Po Mahina, and Pua Kukui – 1977
    · THE WAIMEA MUSIC FESTIVAL (Panini Records 1006) - Includes five tracks by The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band, as well as other artists - 1974 - Also see Various Artists, section 46, #2.
    · You can see Atta playing with the Gabby band in the film GABBY PAHINUI, FAMILY & FRIENDS/ THE PAHINUI BROTHERS (Private Music/ Panini 5103-3) - Video documentary from 1980 on Gabby Pahinui; and The Pahinui Brothers (Cyril, Bla, & Martin Pahinui), from 1992 - Available from Panini Records, or at www.mele.com

    · THE MAILE SERENADERS—HAWAI`I’S FAVORITE SLACK KEY & STEEL GUITAR, VOLUME 1 (Hula Records 517 - this album was formerly titled KANI KA PILA! VOL. 1) – Especially on the songs ‘Alekoki, He’eia, Hi`ilawe, Hanohano Hanalei, Kona Hema, Kona Kai `Opua, Moku Kai Kahi, Nani Ko`olau, `Ula Noweo, and ‘Ulile E - (the songs Kona Kai `Opua and Nani Ko`olau also appear on Gabby Pahinui’s “Best Of” recording, KA MAKANA A PAHINUI {THE GIFT OF PAHINUI} on Hula Records 578, even though this recording features Atta Isaacs on Slack Key with Eddie Kamae &The Sons of Hawai’i, although sometimes Gabby Pahinui is erroneously credited ) – 1966
    · THIS IS EDDIE KAMAE AND THE SONS OF HAWAI'I (Hula Records 513 - out-of-print) - Especially on the songs Beautiful Ke Ala and Ko Hanu Ka`u E Li`a Nei * - 1965
    · MARCELLA KALUA - GIRL FROM PAPAKOLEA (Mahalo Records 4012 - out-of-print) - Slack Key backup by Atta Isaacs, with Eddie Kamae & The Sons of Hawai`i – Especially on the song Kaho’olawe - around 1967
    · MELVEEN WITH THE BEST OF SLACK KEY (Lehua Records 7046) - Atta Isaacs is featured three songs: Pauoa Liko Ka Lehua, Nanea Kou Maka, and Paliakamoa - This album also features tracks with Gabby Pahinui, Sonny Chillingworth, and Led Kaapana – 1980 - Also see Melveen Leed under Various Artists, section 46
    · THREE 'UKULELES (Waikiki Records 125 – out-of-print) – with John Lukela] - Especially on the song Slack Key Medley: Maleka’s Lullaby/Na Puanani O Hawai’i/Ku’u Ipo Ku’u Pua Aloha/Honolulu Town – 1962 *
    · THE NEW HAWAIIAN BAND Hana Ola Classic Collector Series, Volume 7 HOCD 12000 - formerly released on Trim Records 1975) - Atta Isaacs’ Slack Key guitar is featured on the songs Maikai Makani/Kui Au (aka Maika’i Ka Makani ‘O Kohala/ Moani Ke Ala), Green Rose Hula, Haole Hula, and Kekau’pu – recorded in 1971 and originally released in 1975
    · HAUOLI (Sounds of Hawaii 5026 - out-of-print) – Especially on the songs Lahainaluna and Akaka Falls - mid 1960s
    · WAINANI KANEALII–SONGS OF THE PACIFIC (Lehua Records 5021 – out-of-print) – Especially on the songs Kuhio Bay, Nani Kaua’i, and Pu’u O Hulu (Kauli ‘Ili) – 1960s
    · BILL KAIWA SINGS AT MAUNALAHILAHI! (Hula Records 519 - out-of-print) - with Eddie Kamae & The Sons of Hawai’i – Especially on the songs Ko Leo, Lili’ilehua I Mana, ‘Ike ‘Ia I Pelekani, and Wahine Helela – 1960s
    · CHARLES K.L. DAVIS AT HOME (Hula Records 532 - out-of-print) – Especially on the songs Paoakalani, Ekolu Mea Nui, ` Mahina Malamalama, and Malama ‘Ia Me ‘Oe – 1960s
    · STEEL GUITAR HAWAIIAN STYLE (Lehua Records 7023) – with Jerry Byrd -– Especially on the songs Kawahikukupalani, Pa’au’au Waltz, Jesu Meke Kanaka Wai Wai, Maui Chimes, How D’ya Do, Hilo March, Hanalei Moon, and Kalima Waltz. – 1976
    · KUHIO BEACH GIRL Tradewinds Records 1123 - out-of-print) –with Linda de la Cruz – Especially on the song Do I Deserve It – 1967
    · 15 HAWAIIAN FAVORITES (Poki Records 9002 - out-of-print) – with Poki San – Especially on the songs Ka Makani Kaili Aloha, Kaimana Hila/Waikapu Medley, and Kanaka Wai Wai. [This album was also issued with the title INSTRUMENTAL HAWAIIAN FAVORITES – POKI SAN & FRIENDS] – 1974
    · ALVIN KALEOLANI ISAACS & SONS (Lilinoe Records 101 – out-of-print) – with Alvin, Barney, and Norman Isaacs - Especially the song Ke Kumuhana Nui – 1978

  6. Led Kaapana:
    · BLACK SAND (Dancing Cat 38015) - Guitar solos, as well as a duet with slack key guitarist Leonard Kwan. - 2000
    · LED LIVE - SOLO (Dancing Cat 38008) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. -1994
    · KIKA KILA MEETS KI HO'ALU (Dancing Cat 38031) - Pure instrumental duets with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar. - 1997
    · IN THE SADDLE (Dancing Cat 38051) - Pure duets with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar. - 2001
    · There is a also great video of Led Kaapana and Bob Brozman, LEDWARD KAAPANA & BOB BROZMAN IN CONCERT (Vestapol 13074). See the Documentary Videos section.
    · WALTZ OF THE WIND (Dancing Cat 38016) - Led plays slack key guitar and 'ukulele in ensembles with Southern artists Alison Krauss, Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas and Sonny Landreth, as well as pure duets with Bob Brozman and George Winston. - 1998
    · LIMA WELA! (Leahi Records 2001, reissued on Shaka Records 3003) - Instrumentals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1983
    · SIMPLY SLACK KEY (Paradise Records 970)* - Instrumentals with acoustic and electric guitar played by Led. - 1988
    · Also see Melveen Leed in the Various Artists section.
    · Led also plays excellent guitar on seven recordings with the group I Kona and on 14 recordings with the group Hui 'Ohana.
    · Two more solo guitar releases are planned by Dancing Cat Records.
    · For more information on Led Kaapana, visit his website at home.hawaii.rr.com/kaapana.

  7. Cyril Pahinui:
    · HE'EIA (Dancing Cat 88697-09882-2) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar - 2007
    · NIGHT MOON (PO MAHINA) (Dancing Cat 38030) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. - 1998
    · 6 & 12 STRING SLACK KEY (Dancing Cat 38010) - Guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. - 1994
    · FOUR HANDS SWEET & HOT (Dancing Cat 38048) - Pure duets with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar. - 1999
    · KA HO'OILINA MAU (Poki Records 9062) - Vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1998
    · CYRIL (Pahinui Records 6068) - Vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1988
    · THE SANDWICH ISLE BAND (Seabird Sound Hawaii 1003 - out-of-print) - 1978
    · MEET PALANI VAUGHAN & THE SUNDAY MANOA (Hula Records 524) - With slack key guitarist Peter Moon. See also Peter Moon with The Sunday Manoa section. - 1968
    · Two more solo guitar releases are planned by Dancing Cat Records.

  8. James "Bla" Pahinui:
    · WINDWARD HEART - LIVE SOLO (Dancing Cat 38052) - Vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and one instrumental. - 2000
    · MANA (Dancing Cat 38033) - Solo instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar. - 1997
    · BLA PAHINUI (Mountain Apple Records 2002 - out-of-print)* - 1983
    · BLA (Pua Lani Records 1001 - out-of-print)* - 1981
    · Also see Peter Moon with the Sunday Manoa.
    · Two more solo guitar releases are planned by Dancing Cat Records.

  9. The Pahinui Brothers (Cyril, James "Bla" and Martin Pahinui):
    · THE PAHINUI BROS. (Private Music/Panini 1005-82098) - 1992

  10. George Kuo:
    · O KE AUMOE: NIGHT OF THE SLACK KEY GUITAR (Winter & Winter Records W&W 910 142-2) - Instrumental guitar solos, and 3 vocals accompanied by Slack Key guitar - 2008
    · ALOHA NO NA KUPUNA (LOVE FOR THE ELDERS) (Dancing Cat 38009) - Instrumental guitar solos. - 1996
    · HAWAIIAN TOUCH (Dancing Cat 38026) - With Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar. The first ever recording of pure acoustic steel guitar and slack key guitar instrumental duets. - 1995
    · NAHENAHE - HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY (Hula Records 576) - Instrumentals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1981
    · HARDLY WORKING (Kahanu Records 1004 - out-of-print)* - With the Kipapa Rush Band, featuring slack key guitarist Wayne Reis. - 1985
    · HUI ALOHA (Dancing Cat 38053) - Features Dennis Kamakahi and George Kuo on slack key guitar and vocals, Martin Pahinui on bass and vocals, and David Kamakahi on 'ukulele. - 1999
    · HO'OLOHE (LISTEN) (Dancing Cat 38054) - Backing up Martin Pahinui. - 2003
    · WAIALEA JAMMIN' (Kekani Productions -out-of-print) – double live CD with George Kuo on Slack Key guitar and vocals, with Martin Pahinui on bass and vocals, Steven Hall on rhythm guitar and vocals, and Danny Akaka, Jr. on ‘ukulele and vocals - 2001
    · More solo guitar releases and another duet album with Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel are planned by Dancing Cat Records.

  11. Dennis Kamakahi:
    · REV. DENNIS KAMAKAHI – THE GREATEST HITS VOLUME 1 (Dennis Kamakahi Productions DKPCD 7003) - Vocals and one instrumental, with Dennis Kamakahi’s Slack Key guitar accompanied by son David Kamakahi on ‘ukulele -2009
    · 'OHANA (FAMILY) (Dancing Cat 38043) - Vocals and instrumentals, including four duets with son David Kamakahi on 'ukulele. - 1999
    · PUA'ENA (GLOW BRIGHTLY) (Dancing Cat 38036) - Vocals accompanied by slack key and one instrumental track. - 1996
    · HUI ALOHA (Dancing Cat 38053) - Features Dennis Kamakahi and George Kuo on slack key guitar and vocals, Martin Pahinui on bass and vocals, and David Kamakahi on 'ukulele. - 1999
    · THE GIFT OF MUSIC - FROM FATHER TO SON (Dennis Kamakahi Productions 70012) - Vocals and instrumentals, accompanied by David Kamakahi on 'ukulele. - 2003
    · PA’ANI (Dennis Kamakahi Productions DKPCD 7002) – David Kamakahi’s first album - Vocals and instrumentals, with David Kamakahi’s ’ukelele accompanied by Dennis Kamakahi on Slack Key guitar - 2004
    · Dennis Kamakahi is also featured on Slack Key guitar and as the main composer on six albums with Eddie Kamae & The Sons Of Hawai’i.
    · For more information on Dennis, visit his website at www.denniskamakahiproductions.com.

  12. Keola Beamer:
    · SOLILOQUY - KA LEO O LOKO (Dancing Cat 38012) - Instrumental pieces (including eight original songs) for one and two guitars. - 2002
    · KOLONAHE - FROM THE GENTLE WIND (Dancing Cat 38047) - Four instrumental and nine vocal tracks. - 1999
    · MAUNA KEA - WHITE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL (Dancing Cat 38011) - Instrumental pieces for one and two guitars. -1997
    · MOE'UHANE KIKA - TALES FROM THE DREAM GUITAR (Dancing Cat 38006) - Instrumental pieces for one and two guitars. - 1995
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR IN THE REAL OLD STYLE (Music of Polynesia Records 22000) - Eight instrumentals and three vocals with beautiful arrangements for two slack key guitars. - 1972
    · WOODEN BOAT (Dancing Cat 38024) - Vocals and instrumentals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1994
    · ISLAND BORN ('Ohe Records 96118) - Vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 2001
    · MOHALA HOU - MUSIC OF THE HAWAIIAN RENAISSANCE ('Ohe Records 96120) - Vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. - 2003
    · More releases are planned by Dancing Cat Records.
    · Keola has also written a fiction book, THE SHIMMERING - KA 'OLII - ISLAND STORIES, depicting, with both humorous and poignant stories, different slices of life in Hawai'i.
    · For more information on Keola Beamer, visit his website at www.kbeamer.com.

  13. The Beamer Brothers (Keola and Kapono):
    · HAWAI'I'S KEOLA AND KAPONO BEAMER (Tantalus Records 1001) - 1975
    · HONOLULU CITY LIGHTS (Paradise Records 808) - 1978
    · THIS IS OUR ISLAND HOME - WE ARE HER SONS (Music of Polynesia Records 29000)* - 1973
    · HAWAII THEN AND NOW (Music of Polynesia Records 35000 - out-of-print)* - 1974
    · There are two other fine Beamer Brothers albums.

  14. Ozzie Kotani:
    · TO HONOR A QUEEN (E HO'OHIWAHIWA I KA MO'I WAHINE) - THE MUSIC OF LILI'UOKALANI (Dancing Cat 38018) - Instrumental guitar solos of 13 compositions by Queen Lili'uokalani. - 2002
    · KANI KI HO'ALU (Dancing Cat 38013) - Instrumental guitar solos. - 1995
    · HO’IHI (RESPECT) - TRADITIONAL HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY (issued on Ozzie Kotani’s own label) – Instrumental guitar solos, and two duets with Tom Kaulakukui - 2008
    · PAKA UA [RAINDROPS] Daniel Ho Creations DHC 80016 - out-of-print) – 8 solo instrumentals and 3 duets with Daniel Ho on ‘ukulele -2005 - Order from www.danielho.com
    · CLASSICAL SLACK (Pacific Sound Design Records 1001 - out-of-print) Instrumental pieces for one and two guitars – 1988
    · TARO PATCH CHRISTMAS (Daniel Ho Creations DHC 80228) – Duets with Steve Sano – 2001 - Order from www.danielho.com
    · OMOIDE-REMEMBRANCE (Daniel Ho Creations DHC80910) – Duets with Steve Sano, with Slack Key versions of 10 Japanese songs and 3 Okinawan songs – 2003 - Order from www.danielho.com
    · Also see Steve Sano, section 38.
    · One more solo guitar release of Ozzie is planned by Dancing Cat Productions.
    · For more information on Ozzie Lotani, his website is www.ozziekotani.com

  15. Moses Kahumoku:
    · HO'OKUPU (THE GIFT) (Dancing Cat 38023) - Instrumental guitar solos and vocals accompanied by solo guitar. - 1995
    · Two more solo guitar releases are planned by Dancing Cat Records.

  16. George Kahumoku, Jr.:
    · HAWAIIAN LOVE SONGS - NA MELE HO'ONIPONIPO HAWAI'I (Dancing Cat 38050) - Instrumental guitar solos, vocals accompanied by solo guitar and duets with Bob Brozman, Diana Aki and Norton Buffalo. - 2001
    · DRENCHED BY MUSIC (Dancing Cat 38038) - Instrumental guitar solos, vocals accompianed by solo guitar and duets with Bob Brozman and Diana Aki. - 1997
    · FOOTPRINTS IN THE POI: GEORGE KAHUMOKU LIVE! (Kahumoku Farms Record Company 1011) - 2003
    · E LILI'U (Kealia Farms Record Co. 1008) - Instrumental songs by Queen Lili'uokalani, including some from the film, ONIPA'A, about the overthrow of Hawai'i's last monarch in 1893. - 1994
    · HO'OILINA - THE LEGACY (Kealia Farms Record Co. 1007) - Mainly vocals accompanied by slack key guitar, with 'ukulele by George's son, Keoki Kahumoku. - 1995
    · HYMNS OF HAWAI'I (Aire 88922) - With Daniel Ho, vocals with two slack key guitars. - 1999
    · Two more releases are planned by Dancing Cat Records.
    · George also has a memoir about his life, A HAWAIIAN LIFE, co-authored by Paul Konwiser.
    · For more information on George Kahumoku, visit his website at www.kahumoku.com.

  17. The Kahumoku Brothers (Moses and George):
    · KAI MALINO (THE PEACEFUL SEA) (Hula Records 577) - 1986
    · SWEET AND SASSY - HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY STYLINGS, VOL. 1 (Kahumoku Farms Record Company 1010) - Instrumentals with two slack key guitars. - 1988
    · For more information, see George Kahumoku's website www.kahumoku.com.

  18. a. Peter Moon:
    · THE PATH (Kanikapila 1017) - Slack key guitar and 'ukulele instrumentals. - 1996
    · HO'I HOU (RETURN ONCE MORE) (Kanikapila 1015) - Slack key guitar and 'ukulele instrumentals. - 1995

    b. Peter Moon Band (with Cyril and Martin Pahinui):
    · SPIRIT LOVER (Kanikapila Records 1002) - 1984
    · HARBOR LIGHTS (Kanikapila Records 1001) - 1983
    · CANE FIRE (Panini Records 1012) - 1982
    · MALIE (Panini Records 1011) - 1980
    · There are many other fine albums by the Peter Moon Band.

    c. Peter Moon with The Sunday Manoa:
    · MEET PALANI VAUGHAN & THE SUNDAY MANOA (Hula Records 524) - Also features slack key guitarist Cyril Pahinui. - 1968
    · HAWAIIAN TIME (Hula Records 528)* - With Bla Pahinui. - 1969
    · GUAVA JAM (Hula Records 543) - 1972
    · THE SUNDAY MANOA - CRACKED SEED (Panini Records 1003) -1972
    · THE SUNDAY MANOA 3 (Panini Records 1005) - 1973
    · There are also two other fine Sunday Manoa albums with Peter Moon.

  19. Cindy Combs:
    · SUNNY RAIN (Dancing Cat 88697-09883-3) – Instrumental guitar solos
    · SLACK KEY LADY (Dancing Cat 38041) - Instrumentals and vocals accompanied by slack key guitar. - 2001
    · LAND OF THE ENDLESS SUMMER (Better Days Records 003) - Two solo instrumentals, 'Au'au Pu and Hawaii Loa, as well as vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble. -1997
    · More releases are planned by Dancing Cat Records.
    · For more information on Cindy Combs, visit her website at www.slackkeylady.com.

  20. Ken Emerson:
    · SLACK & STEEL (Liko Hawaiian Folk Collection Volume 3 2002) - Instrumentals with Ken Emerson on slack key guitar and overdubbed acoustic & electric steel guitar. -1997
    · For more information on Ken Emerson, visit his website at www.kenemerson.com.

  21. Auntie Alice Namakelua:
    · AUNTIE ALICE NAMAKELUA (Hula Records 552 - out-of-print)* - Includes four slack key guitar tracks that document the oldest slack key style, from the 1800s, on record. - 1974

  22. Nedward Kaapana:
    · HIS OWN MAN (Lehua 7059) - Instrumentals & vocals accompanied by slack key guitar, especially a great version of Leonard Kwan's composition Nahenahe (as a medley with Hilo Hawai'i). - 1996

  23. Na Pali (with slack key guitarists Carlos Andrade and Patrick Cockett):
    · NA PALI - PACIFIC TUNINGS (Awapuhi Records 101) - Vocals accompanied by slack key guitar and ensemble - 1988

  24. John Keawe:
    · MANA 'OLANA (Homestead Productions 1003) - Instrumentals - 1996
    · HO-ONEANEA (Homestead Productions 1001) - Instrumentals - 1993
    · AUHELE (Homestead Productions 1002) - Instrumentals - 1994
    · ALOHA KAIKUA'ANA (Homestead Productions 1006) - Instrumentals - 2002
    · To order, contact Homestead Productions, PO Box 577, Kapaau, HI 96755, 808-889-5535 (phone or fax).
    · For more information on John Keawe, visit his website at www.kohala.net/keawe/index.html.

  25. Hal Kinnaman:
    · SLACK KEY REVERE (HLK 1942) - Instrumentals - 1996
    · To order, contact Slack Key Productions, PO Box 635, Kalaheo, HI 96741.

  26. Lehua Kaapana Nash:
    · KI HO'ALU - KAAPANA STYLE (Jus' Press Records 5003) - Instrumentals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1996

  27. Patrick Landeza:
    · PU'UNAUE "TO SHARE" (Pu'unaue Productions 1201) - Instrumentals and vocals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1998
    · To order, contact Pu'unaue Productions, 240 Athol Ave. Ste. 101, Oakland, CA 94606, 877-205-6134 x 4412; mrlandeza@mytalk.com. For more information, visit Patrick's website at www.patricklandeza.com.

  28. Ron Loo:
    · KAHALU'U SLACK (Pila Nahenahe Productions 1004) - Instrumentals with ensemble. - 1996
    · To order, write Pila Nahenahe Productions, PO Box 5126, Kaneohe, HI 96744.

  29. Daniel Ho:
    · THE VOYAGE HOME (Aire 81998) - Instrumentals - 1998
    · To order, contact Aire Music, 914 Westwood Blvd #813, Los Angeles, CA 90024.
    · For more information, visit Daniel's website at www.danielho.com.

  30. Mika'ele Mike McClellan:
    · SLACK-KEY VAGABOND (AIM Recording Company 7-29012-5) - Instrumentals from Hawai'i and other countries with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 2001
    · BACKYARD SLACK KEY AND AUTOHARP (Top Soil Records 8128)* - Instrumentals with slack key guitar, autoharp and ensemble. - 1988
    · SOME NEW THINGS (Topsoil Records 9083)* - Instrumentals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1998
    · THE LIFE OF THE LAND (Topsoil Records 7064)* - Instrumentals and vocals with slack key guitar and ensemble. Half Hawaiian songs and half Mainland American folk songs. - 1974
    · To order, contact Mika'ele Mike McClellan, 22283 Cass Avenue, Woodland Hills, CA 91364, 818-999-3129.

  31. Jim West:
    · COCONUT HAT (Westernmost Records 30001) - Instrumentals - 1999

  32. Chris Yeaton:
    · KIKAHA MALIE (Woodsongs Acoustic Group 0001)

  33. Nolan Ha'o:
    · ON THE BACK PORCH (Kahanu Records 1017 - out-of-print)* - Instrumentals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1986

  34. Yuki Alani Yamauchi:
    · MAIKAI NO BLUES (Respect Records 30, Japanese import) - Slack key guitar and ensemble, featuring Ray Kane on vocals. - 1999
    · HAWAI'I PONOI (Jasrac Records RICE 703, Malaysian import) - Instrumentals with slack key guitar and ensemble. - 1999
    · Yuki Yamauchi has several other fine recordings on Respect Records in Japan.

  35. Various Artists:
    · THE HISTORY OF SLACK KEY GUITAR - VINTAGE HAWAIIAN TREASURES VOL. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000) - Contains 20 historical tracks from the 1940s and the early 1950s, by 9 slack key guitarists, including Tommy Blaisdell, George Keoki Davis, Mike Hoomanawanui, George & Tina Kaapana, Henry Kahalekahi, Abraham Kononui, William Namahoe, Gabby Pahinui and Tommy Solomon. (Also see Gabby Pahinui: Anthologies in the Gabby Pahinui section). - 1995
    · THE WAIMEA MUSIC FESTIVAL (Panini Records 1006) - Live performances by the late Fred Punahoa (his only two issued recordings), as well as The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band, Sonny Chillingworth, Peter Moon with the Sunday Manoa, Na Leo O Nu'uanu (slack key guitarist/composer Dennis Kamakahi's first band) and others. - 1974
    · MELVEEN WITH THE BEST OF SLACK KEY (Lehua Records 7046)* - Vocals by Melveen Leed, with backup slack key guitar by Gabby Pahinui on three songs: Pua Alani, Ka Manu and Ka Iiwi Polena; Atta Isaacs on three songs: Pauoa Liko Ka Lehua, Nanea Kou Maka and Paliakamoa; Sonny Chillingworth on three songs: None Hula, Wai O Ke Ani and Makee Ailana; and Led Kaapana on three songs: Puu O Hulu, Kamalani O Keaukaha and Na Pua Ka Ilima. - 1980
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTERS INSTRUMENTAL COLLECTION (Dancing Cat 38032) - Solo instrumental tracks by Keola Beamer, Sonny Chillingworth, Ray Kane, Led Kaapana, Moses Kahumoku, Ozzie Kotani, Cyril Pahinui, George Kuo and Leonard Kwan, plus a duet of Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar with George Kuo on slack key. - 1995
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTERS COLLECTION, VOL. 2 (Dancing Cat 38046) - Vocal and instrumental tracks, performed by Ray Kane, Dennis Kamakahi, Sonny Chillingworth, Keola Beamer, Bob Brozman, Led Kaapana, George Kahumoku, Jr., George Kuo, Bla Pahinui, Leonard Kwan, Ozzie Kotani, Cyril Pahinui, David Kamakahi, Martin Pahinui and Kekuhi Kanahele. - 1999
    · KI HO'ALU CHRISTMAS (Dancing Cat 38037) - Traditional, Hawaiian and original winter songs performed by Keola Beamer, Cindy Combs, Led Kaapana, George Kahumoku, Jr., Moses Kahumoku, Dennis Kamakahi, Joanie Komatsu, Ozzie Kotani, Barney Isaacs with George Kuo, Bla Pahinui and Cyril Pahinui. - 1996
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY CHRISTMAS (Dancing Cat 38044) - 11 instrumental and 3 vocal standard and Hawaiian Christmas songs featuring George Kuo, Leonard Kwan, Joanie & Ruth Komatsu, Ozzie Kotani, Moses Kahumoku, Bla Pahinui, George Kahumoku, Jr., Cindy Combs, Led Kaapana, Dennis Kamakahi, Keola Beamer, Bob Brozman and Cyril Pahinui - 2000
    · SLACK KEY TRADITION (Liko Records 2001) - With Gary Haleamau, Nolan Ha'o, Elmer Kohala Lim and Robert Keli'iho'omalu, Jr. - 1995
    · NATURE SLACK KEY - SOUNDS OF HAWAI'I (Orange Tree Productions) - With Cindy Combs, George Kahumoku, Jr., Dennis Pavao and Grant Geissman. For more information, go to www.orangetreeproductions.com. - 1997
    · 'AUHEA 'OE E SANOE - FIELD RECORDINGS OF HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR (Top Soil Records 7046)* - Featuring Haunani Apoliona, Charles Chu, Stephen Kauhane and Daniel Nicholas. To order, contact Mika'ele Mike McClellan, 22283 Cass Avenue, Woodland Hills, CA 91364, 818-999-3129. - 1976
    · SLACK KEY GIANTS (Pumehana Records 4916 - out-of-print)* - Anthology recording of instrumental slack key including slack key guitarists Led Kaapana, Sonny Chillingworth, Frank Palani (with the Ho'opi'i Brothers), Elmer Kohala Lim (with The Lim Family), and Kuulei Ahuna and Abe Keala (with Da Blahlas). - 1980

Videos, DVDs & Documentaries

  1. OZZIE KOTANI: GUITAR PLAYING HAWAIIAN STYLE WITH OZZIE KOTANI, KI HO’ALU VOLUME 1 (Creative View Productions OK701) – with split screen for viewing the fretboard and the fingers, and with on screen tablature notation. The Intermediate edition will be issued in 2008, and more are planned. Available from www.ozziekotani.net or www.slack-key.net
  2. KEOLA BEAMER-LOOSEN THE KEY – Great documentary on Keola Beamer and Slack Key Guitar, with live performances and interviews – 2003 - To order, go to www.kbeamer.com
  3. LEDWARD KAAPANA & BOB BROZMAN IN CONCERT (Vestapol 13074) - 1998 - To order, contact Vestapol Videos at 973-729-5544 (phone), 973-726-0568 (fax) or www.vestapol.com
  4. GABBY PAHINUI, FAMILY & FRIENDS/THE PAHINUI BROTHERS (Private Music/ Panini 5103-3) - Video documentary from 1980 on Gabby Pahinui; and the Pahinui Brothers (Cyril, Bla, & Martin Pahinui) from 1992 - Available from Panini Records, or at www.mele.com
  5. Nine documentaries by Eddie & Myrna Kamae: (the films LI`A—THE LEGACY OF A HAWAIIAN MAN, and LISTEN TO THE FOREST have been issued on VHS in the past; all the films will be available on DVD in the future). To order,see www.hawaiianlegacy.com, or contact Hawaii Sons, P.O. Box 8230, Honolulu HI 96830
    1. THE HAWAIIAN WAY - Documentary about the Slack Key guitar tradition and its relationship to the Hawaiian spirit, featuring Slack Key guitarists Gabby Pahinui, Led Kaapana, Led Kaapana’s late uncle Fred Punahoa, George Kuo, Ray Kane, Moses Kahumoku, George Kahumoku, Jr., Manu Kahaialii, Malaki Kanahele, Auntie Alice Namakelua, Roland “Lale” Kalihiki, Mel Murata, Anna Goodhue, Cindy Smith, and Eddie Kamae & The Sons of Hawai’i, and others.
    2. THE HISTORY OF THE SONS OF HAWAI’I – About the great traditional based Hawaiian music group The Sons of Hawai’i, who launched the Hawaiian Cultural Renaissance of the late 1960s and the early 1970s. The band initially included Slack Key guitarist Gabby Pahinui, ‘ukulele master Eddie Kamae, the late bassist Joe Marshall, and the very influential late steel guitarist David “Feet” Rogers. Other great musicians were also members over the years, including composer/ Slack Key guitarist Dennis Kamakahi, Slack Key guitarists Atta Isaacs, Sonny Chillingworth, George Kuo, Pekelo Cosma, the late vocalist/ ‘ukulele player Moe Keale, guitarist/vocalist Bruddah Smitty, bassist/vocalist Ocean Kaowili, and steel guitarist Paul Kim.
    3. LISTEN TO THE FOREST - About the Hawaiian rainforests and Hawaiian ecological wisdom. The soundtrack features Slack Key guitar by George Kuo and Led Kaapana, and there is a beautiful version of the song Ipu Lei Manu during the end credits, played by the Sons of Hawai’i, with Dennis Kamakahi on vocals and Slack Key guitar, and George Kuo on Slack Key guitar.
    4. LI`A—THE LEGACY OF A HAWAIIAN MAN - About the late composer and musician Sam Li`a, and his home in the Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawai’i. The soundtrack features Slack Key guitar by George Kuo.
    5. LUTHER KAHEKIKI MAKEKAU: A ONE KINE HAWAIIAN MAN – About the legendary figure from Pahoa, on the Big Island of Hawai’i. [format this line]
    6. HAWAIIAN VOICES–BRIDGING PAST TO PRESENT – About the role of kupuna (elders) in preserving Hawaiian culture through the deep tradition of Hawaiian storytelling. [format this second line]
    7. WORDS, EARTH & ALOHA – About early Hawaiian composers, who spoke and composed songs in the Hawaiian language as their first language, with special emphasis on the kauna (hidden meanings) in songs, and the inspiration from nature. [format this second line].
    8. KEEPERS OF THE FLAME – A tribute to three Hawaiian women whose lives spanned the 19th and 20th centuries: Hawaiian historian and author Mary Kawena Pukui; dancer and chanter Iolani Luahine; and kumu hula and teacher Edith Kanakaole. This film is about their commitment to Hawaiian culture and values and the ways their influence is still felt today.
    9. LAHINA-WAVES OF CHANGE- About the history of of the town and region in West Maui, and Eddie Kamae’s family history there, including his discovery that his grandmother, Kauhai Likua Opuniu, had composed the classic Hawaiian song Kananaka. – available now on DVD
  6. KI HO'ALU - THAT'S SLACK KEY GUITAR - Documentary by Susan Friedman, featuring performances by Ray Kane, Sonny Chillingworth, Leonard Kwan, Led Kaapana, George Kuo, George Kahumoku, Jr., Haunani Apoliona and others. Available at www.mele.com or whatisup@earthlink.net
  7. PANIOLO O HAWAI'I - COWBOYS OF THE FAR WEST - Documentary by Edgy Lee. Soundtrack includes a live performance of Whee Ha Swing by Led Kaapana. Available at Borders Books & Music stores or through Filmworks, Ltd., at 808-537-6813 (phone), 808-537-9272 (fax). For more information, contact ponnyyup@aol.com.
  8. TROUBLED PARADISE - Documentary by Stephen Okazaki, with performances by several artists, including slack key guitarists George Kahumoku, Jr., and Dean Kaahanui. Audio soundtrack available on Flying Fish Records, distributed by Rounder Records, www.rounder.com.
  9. HAWAIIAN RAINBOW - Documentary by Robert Mugge has performances by several great Hawaiian artists, including slack key guitarist Ray Kane. Audio soundtrack available on Rounder Records, www.rounder.com.
  10. ACT OF WAR - THE OVERTHROW OF THE HAWAIIAN NATION - Brilliant historical video by Puhipau and Joan Lander about the overthrow of Queen Lili'uokalani, also the greatest composer of her time. Soundtrack contains slack key guitar by Peter Moon, including a solo minor-key version of Kaulana Na Pua and a beautiful Queen's Jubilee. To order, or for more educational videos on Hawaiian culture, contact Na Maka O Ka 'Aina, PO Box 29, Na'alehu, HI 96772-0029, 808-929-9659 (phone), 808-929-9679 (fax), namaka@interpac.net. For more information, visit www.namaka.com.
  11. ONIPA'A - About the overthrow of Queen Lili'uokalani, Hawai'i's last monarch in 1893. Some of the soundtrack features George Kahumoku on slack key guitar.
  12. BLA PAHINUI–WINDWARD HEART – Live concert film of the most of the songs on Bla Pahinui’s live album WINDWARD HEART - produced by Cindy Lahilahi Verschuur and Mike Powell – (not commercially available at this time).
  13. KI HO’ALU MASTERS – film about seven Slack Key guitarists, including Keola Beamer, Sonny Chillingworth, Led Kaapana, Ray Kane, Ozzie Kotani, Leonard Kwan, and Cyril Pahinui – produced by Cindy Lahilahi Verschuur and Mike Powell – (not commercially available at this time).

Instructional Videos & DVDs

  1. Ozzie Kotani:
    · GUITAR PLAYING HAWAIIAN STYLE WITH OZZIE KOTANI, KI HO’ALU VOLUME (Creative View Productions OK701) – with split screen for viewing the fretboard and the fingers, and with on screen tablature notation. The Intermediate edition will be issued in 2008, and more are planned. Available from admin@slack-key.net or www.ozziekotani.net or www.slack-key.net

  2. Keola Beamer:
    · THE ART OF HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR (Homespun KEO-GT01) - Includes tablature. Available from Homespun Tapes, PO Box 694, Woodstock, NY 12498, 800-33-TAPES (phone), 914-246-5282 (fax). For more information, visit www.homespuntapes.com.

  3. Led Kaapana:
    · THE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR OF LEDWARD KAAPANA (Homespun LED-GT01) - Taught by Led Kaapana and hosted by Bob Brozman. Available from Homespun Tapes, PO Box 694, Woodstock, NY 12498, 800-33-TAPES (phone), 914-246-5282 (fax). For more information, visit www.homespuntapes.com.

  4. Ray Kane:
    · THE SLACK KEY SECRETS OF RAY KANE (Lone Tree Productions) - Order from Lone Tree Productions, 98-1277 Kaahumanu St, Ste. PP303, Aiea, HI 96701.
    · SLACK KEY GUITAR (KI HO'ALU) INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO - To order contact the Kane Family, 89-103 Haleakala Ave., Wai`anae, HI 96792

  5. George Kahumoku, Jr.
    · D WAHINE TUNING– DVD lesson – Lessons in the D Wahine Tuning (D-A-D-F# -A-C# - from the lowest pitched string to the highest); split screen shows both right and left hand techniques; exercises and songs are presented. To order, go to www.thegtw.com – or call 800-495-8444.

  6. Keoki Kahumoku:
    · INTRODUCTION TO HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR – DVD lesson – Split screen shows both right and left hand techniques; a very complete introduction to all the basics for the G Major “Taro Patch” Tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D – from the lowest pitched string to the highest). To order, go to www.thegtw.com - or call 800-495-8444.

  7. Patrick Landeza:
    · SLACK KEY MADE EASY - DVD lesson and CD-ROM tab lesson. To order, go to www.thegtw.com - or call 800-495-8444 - or go to www.patricklandeza.com

Instruction/Music Books

  1. Ozzie Kotani:
    · GUITAR PLAYING HAWAIIAN STYLE WITH OZZIE KOTANI, KI HO’ALU VOLUME 1 (Creative View Productions OK701) – with split screen for viewing the fretboard and the fingers, and with on screen tablature notation. The Intermediate edition will be issued in 2008, and more are planned. - Available from admin@slack-key.net or www.ozziekotani.net or www.slack-key.net

  2. Keola Beamer:
    · THE ART OF HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR (Homespun Tapes KEO-GT01) - Includes tablature.
    - Available from www.keolabeamer.com - or from Homespun Tapes, PO Box 694, Woodstock, NY 12498, 800-33-TAPES (phone), 914-246-5282 (fax); for more information, go to www.homespuntapes.com
    · LEARN TO PLAY HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR (Mel Bay Publications 96695) - By Keola Beamer and Mark Nelson. 160 page book with CD. To order call 800-8-MELBAY or visit www.melbay.com.
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR (Oak Publications - out-of-print) [Beginning & Intermediate] - An extended version of the FIRST METHOD FOR HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR book, with accompanying flexi disc recording.

  3. Leonard Kwan:
    · SLACK KEY INSTRUCTION BOOK (Tradewinds Publications) [advanced] – In both standard notation and tablature, written with Dennis Ladd. - Available from Elderly Books, PO Box 14210, Lansing, MI 48901, 517-372-7890 or toll free 888-473-5810 (phone), 517-372-5155 (fax) - (from Catalog #92B-2), or from www.elderly.com .

  4. Various Artists:
    · MASTERS OF HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR (Accent on Music) - By Mark Hanson. Includes songs by Ray Kane, Sonny Chillingworth, Leonard Kwan, Cyril Pahinui, Led Kaapana and more. To order call 800-313-4406 or visit www.accentonmusic.com.

  5. Mika'ele Mike McClellan:
    · AN ADVANCED WORKBOOK FOR THE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR - To order contact Mika'ele Mike McClellan, 22283 Cass Avenue, Woodland Hills, CA 91364, 818-999-3129.

  6. Daniel Ho & Steve Sano:
    · SECRETS OF CONTEMPORARY SLACK KEY GUITAR (Alfred) - To order visit www.danielho.com.

  7. Ronald J. K. Loo:
    · HE KALANA KAKAU KI HO'ALU, HELU 'EKAHI - A SLACK KEY NOTEBOOK, NO. 1 [beginning], NO. 2 [intermediate] and NO. 3 [advanced] - Include cassettes. To order contact Pila Nahenahe, 2325-A Liliha Street, Honolulu, HI 96817, 808-239-4281 (phone), www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Arena/7009.

  8. Hal Kinnaman:
    · EARLY HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY MELODIES FOR GUITAR [intermediate and advanced] – In tablature with cassette. To order, contact Slack Key Productions, PO Box 635, Kalaheo, HI 96741.
  9. Yuki Yamauchi:
    · SLACK KEY TUNINGS FOR GUITAR (Japanese language publication) [Intermediate] - To order contact Yuki Yamauchi at 40-11 Shimizucho, Itabashi-Ku, Tokyo, Japan 174.

  10. Ray Kane:
    · "PUNAHELE" - Individual transcription (including tablature and standard notation) of this song. To order contact Stropes Editions, Ltd., 1132 Lake Avenue, Racine, WI 53403-1925, 414-636-9910 (phone), 414-636-9911 (fax), www.stropes.com.
    · HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR (out-of- print) - by Ren Tava.

    Slack Key Guitar Lessons

    In Hawai'i:

    1. Ozzie Kotani: Private lessons when schedule permits. Ozzie can also offer further information and referrals for slack key lessons in the Hawaiian Islands: 2401-B Pauoa Rd., Honolulu, HI 96813, 808-536-8734.
    2. Walter Carvalho: Offers private lessons when schedule permits: 808-254-4643.
    3. George Kahumoku, Jr.: Teaches a Hawaiian slack key guitar workshop in Napilli, on the Island of Maui, during the second week in June. For more information, email George at gkahumoku@tiki.net.
    4. Keola Beamer, with Mark Nelson: At the Aloha Music Camp, they teach a week long immersion into the music and culture of Hawai’i, held each June (and also in February starting in 2006), at the Kaupoa Beach Village on Molokai. Other fine instructors are also at the camp. Contact them at Aloha Music Camp, 843 Waine’e Street, F5 Suite 685, Lahaina, Hawai’i, 96761. www.AlohaMusicCamp.com
    5. Ray Sowders : Teaches lessons in Honululu, and makes referrals as well. Contact him at raysowders@hawaii.rr.com, or at 808-762-6441
    6. Kaipo Manoa: Teaches at the Hawaiian Studies Program at Brigham Young University of Hawai'i.
    7. Hal Kinnaman: Offers private lessons on the island of Kauai when schedule permits. Contact him at Slack Key Productions, PO Box 635, Kalaheo, HI 96741, 808-335-0322.
    8. Ronald J. K. Loo: Offers private lessons as his schedule permits: 808-239-4281.
    9. Farrington High School Adult Education: On the island of O'ahu, offers slack key guitar classes: 808-832-3596.
    10. University of Hawai'i at Manoa: College of Continuing Education, on the island of O'ahu: 808-956-8400.
    11. Windward Community College: On the island of O'ahu, offers slack key guitar classes: 808-235-7400.

    On the Mainland:

    1. Patrick Landeza: San Francisco Bay Area teacher and performer, offers private lessons for individuals and groups. Patrick also offers periodic workshops with a variety of instructors in variations locations around the West Coast (including Palo A lot, California, San Diego California, and Seattle, Washington) Contact him at 1680 Gardner Blvd, San Leandro, CA, 94577, 510-452-4266; or email Patrick at puunaue@yahoocom - his website is www.patricklandeza.com www.patricklandeza.com.
    2. Mark Nelson: He gives regularly scheduled workshops in San Diego, California, and Seattle, Washington, at the Lark of the Morning Camp, and at slack key festivals. www.Mark-o.com
    3. Stephen Sano: Teaches a seminar at the Stanford University Department of Music, titled "Ki Ho'alu: The New Renaissance of a Hawaiian Musical Tradition," that is part lecture/discussion and part practicum: 650-723-3811.
    4. Mika'ele Mike McClellan: Offers workshops and classes in slack key guitar in the Los Angeles area: 22283 Cass Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91364, 818-999-3129.
    5. Bill Haumana Raissle: Offers workshops and classes in slack key guitar, Ray Kane style, in the San Antonio, Texas area: 30918 Blueberry Ridge Drive, Bulverde, TX 78163, 210-590-0508, braissle@usa.net.
    6. Wayne Kimo Knox: Offers workshops and closes in slack key guitar and ‘ukelele in the Rochester, New York area. Contact him at Gallery Kauai, Hawaiian Performing Arts Center, 585-385-8735 or 585-427-2290; or email him at eyewrite@aol.com. His website is www.gallerykauai.com
    7. Guitar camps: Also, several Mainland guitar camps regularly feature slack key instruction with Patrick Landeza, George Kahumoku, Jr., Mark Nelson, and other instructors, including:

      Seeing Slack Key Guitar Live

      1. Slack key concert tour information sources:
        1. See the Artists’ websites – in the INTERNET SITES AND NEWSLETTERS section below
        2. George Kahumoku’s concert series at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Kapalua, Maui – www.slackkey.com
        3. Hawaiian Music Island's website, www.mele.com, lists worldwide Hawaiian music concert information.
        4. Dancing Cat lists concert information for its artists at www.dancingcat.com/dancingcat/slack-tour.shtml.
        5. The quarterly Kapalakiko Calendar lists most mainland Hawaiian concerts (See Newsletters/Internet Sites section).

      2. Slack Key Guitar Festivals: The annual Bankoh Ki Ho`alu Gabby Pahinui/Atta Isaacs/Sonny Chillingworth Slack Key Festival is held in Honolulu on the Island of O`ahu every August, on the third Sunday. An hour-long program from the Festival is usually broadcast on local television afterwards in September. Other annual slack key festivals take place in June on Maui, August in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island, and in November on Kaua’i. For more information go to www.hawaiianslackkeyguitarfestivals.com – or contact Ka-Hoku Productions: email to kahokuproductions@yahoo.com , or call 808-239-4336, or 808-226-2697, or 808-239-6053 (fax).

        On the Big Island of Hawai’i, the Hawaiian Music Festival is held on the third weekend of July, in Hilo at the Civic Auditorium, from noon until 6 PM. The Saturday features 'ukulele and steel guitar, and the Sunday features slack key guitar. For more information, contact the East Hawai’i Cultural Center at 808-935-9085.

      3. On the Island of O'ahu:
        1. The Waikiki Beach Marriot Resort Hotel features free live slack key guitar, especially George Kuo and Martin Pahinui, with Aaron Mahi on Sunday nights. The Marriot is in Waikiki at 2552 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, 808-921-5151.
        2. Led Kaapana plays free every Tuesday night from 6-10 PM at Kapono’s at the Aloha Tower Marketplace at Honolulu Harbor. For more information call 808-566-2337. For updated information on seeing Led Kaapana live, see his website http://www.ledkaapana.com
        3. Chai’s Island Bistro – in the Aloha Tower Marketplace in Honolulu – they feature great Hawaiian Music seven nights a week, 808-585-0011. www.chaisislandbistro.com
        4. Duke’s Canoe Club Waikiki, at the Outrigger Waikiki Waikiki Hotel, 2335 Kalakaua Ave., Suite 116, 808-923-4204. www.dukeswaikiki.com

      4. On the Island of Maui:
        1. The Ritz-Carlton, in Kapalua, Maui - since October 2003, there is a regular concert series of slack key and other traditional Hawaiian music every Tuesday night at The Ritz-Carlton, in Kapalua, Maui. The concerts are similar to the ones enjoyed by thousands every year in mainland tours. Many of Hawaii’s top slack key musicians will be performing. The show will be hosted by George Kahumoku, Jr., Hawaii’s “Renaissance Man”, and each week there is an invited guest artist. Frequent guest artists include Led Kaapana, Dennis Kamakahi, Cyril Pahinui, and Ozzie Kotani. This will be an intimate show in the Ritz’s 120 seat amphitheatre, and there will be an opportunity to meet the artists after the performance - call 888-669-3858 for reservations and information or visit the website at www.slackkey.com.
        2. Villa Restaurant and pool-side at the Westin Maui Hotel, 2365 Kaanapali Parkway, Lahaina, HI 96761, 808-667-2525.
        3. The Mauian in Napili: 808-669-6206.
        4. The Hula Grill in Kaanapali: 808-667-6636.

      5. On the Island of Kaua'i: The Hanapepe Cafe in Hanapepe, a gourmet vegetarian restaurant, hosts live slack key regularly, especially Cindy Combs: 808-335-5011. For more information on Cindy Combs, her website is www.slackkeylady.com

      6. On the Big Island of Hawai'i: John Keawe plays regularly at the following locations:
        1. Kona Village Resort's Bora Bora Room on Mondays from 6 to 9:30 p.m.: 808-325-5555.
        2. Lava Lounge in the Four Seasons Hualalai Resort on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.: 808-325-8000.
        3. Bamboo Restaurant in Hawi'i twice a month (Friday or Saturday night): 808-889-5555.
        4. King's Shops in Waikoloa every other Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m: 808-886-8811.
          For more information on John Keawe, his website is www.kohala.net/keawe/index.html

      Hawaiian Music on the Radio

      1. On the Island of O`ahu – in Honolulu:
        1. KCCN (1420 AM) (this station also reaches parts of Kaua`i and Maui) - Harry Soria, Jr.’s long- running program of historical recordings, TERRITORIAL AIRWAVES airs on Sundays at 5 PM
        2. KCCN FM (100 FM) www.kccnfm100.com
        3. KHUI FM (99.5 FM) www.995thebreeze.com
        4. KINE (105.1 FM) www.dakine.com
        5. KHUI (99.5 FM) www.breezeofhawaii.com - Commercial free and all- Hawaiian
        6. KIPO (89.3 FM)/ KIFO (1380 AM) - Honolulu’s public radio station - Keith & Carmen Haugen's program THE MUSIC OF HAWAI’I on Sunday afternoons. Also on the web at www.hawaiipublicradio.org

      2. On the Big Island of Hawai’i
        1. KAHU (1060 AM) – in Hilo
        2. KWXX (94.7 FM), and on the web at www.kwxx.com - in Hilo

      3. On the Island of Kaua`i:
        1. KKCR (90.9 & 91.9 FM - Kaua`i Community Radio), and on the web at www.kkcr.org

      4. On the Island of Maui:
        1. KPOA (93.5 FM) www.kpoa.com

      5. On the Mainland:
        1. KAPU (104.7 FM) – in Watsonville, California, broadcasting Hawaiian music and programs 24/7 www.kapu.org

      6. Internet Radio Broadcast Sites:
        1. Aloha Joe – Internet radio and other informations - http://www.alohajoe.com
        2. Voice of Hawai’i (formally Hawaiian Jamz) - www.voiceofHawaii.org
        3. IRH – Live - http://hotspotshawaii.com/irhpages/irhlive.html
        4. Internet Radio Hawai’i (IRH) - http://kalaniosullivan.com/Hawaii/Resources/InternetRadio.html
        5. Hawaiian Music Machine – Makini Mele - http://voices.cc/mikini.html
        6. Hawaiian Rainbow.com - www.hawaiianrainbow.com
        7. Pacific Islands Radio – Music of Oceana (Hawai’i, Tahiti, the Marshall Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, and more - www.pacificislandsradio.com
        8. Slack Key Paradise - www.live365.com/stations/57250
        9. Pipeline 2 Paradise – contemporary Hawaiian music - www.live365.com/stations/307067
        10. A Prairie Home Companion - Their site has archived shows of slack key guitarists Led Kaapana, George Kahumoku, Jr. , and other Hawaiian artists – see the shows from 1-5-02 and 10-12-02 - www.prairiehome.publicradio.org

      Internet Sites/Newsletters

      1. Hawaiian Music Island (mele.com)- www.mele.com - Auntie Marie’s site sells Hawaiian music, videos, DVDs, and other items, and has information on upcoming slack key and Hawaiian music events worldwide, as well as links for many Hawaiian musicians.
      2. www.slackkey.net – George Kahumoku, Jr.’s slack key information site
      3. Buy Hawaiian Music.com – www.buyhawaiianmusic.com - This site also sells Hawaiian music, videos, and DVDs.
      4. Tropical Isle - www.tropicislemusic.com -This site has Hawaiian music, books, and many other Hawaiian items.
      5. Stevo’s Hawaiian Music Guide – www.Hawaii-music.com - Extensive index of Hawaiian music information available on the web, including music sources, concert schedules, radio shows, artist web sites, and more.
      6. Taro Patch.net - www.taropatch.net - Especially note in the “Learn” section, the Tuning Applet section, which shows chords in various tunings - http://www.taropatch.net/tuning_applet.htm
      7. Aloha Plenty - www.alohaplentyhawaii.com - Site for Hawaiian music, Slack Key guitar, live concerts, and for subscribing to their weekly newsletter.
      8. Hawaiian Music - http://www.lava.net/~panther/hawaii2.html - great site with many links for Hawaiian musicians and other information.
      9. Hawaiian Music and Hula Archives ---has music lyrics and other information www.kalena.com/huapala/
      10. www.broadcast.com - Listen to Hawaiian CDs online. From the home page, click on the CD Jukebox button, click on Search Jukebox and search under Hawaiian.
      11. www.nahenahe.net – Various Hawaiian subjects on a weekly podcast from Keola Donaghy from UH-Hilo
      12. Kapalakiko Calendar - The definitive quarterly calendar newsletter of all notable Hawaiian events, available from Kapalakiko Productions for $10.00 per year. Contact Saichi Kawahara, Editor, at 800 Meade Ave., San Francisco, CA 94124, 415-468-7125.

      For an individual artist's website, see musician's listing in the Recommended Recording section.

        Additional Sections

        Section I: A Brief History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Ki Ho'alu)

        (The following sections will be added soon.)

        Section III: Slack Key Guitar Tuning Essay

        Section IVa: Summary of Recording Tunings

        Section IVb: Chart of Recorded and Related Tunings

        Section V: Hawaiian Recordings in the Slack Key Tunings

        Section VI: Chart of Non-Recorded Tunings

        Section VII: Glossary Terms Relating to Slack Key Guitar and Hawaiian Music in General

        Section VIII: Addendum

        Index

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