Hawaiian Recordings in the Slack Key Tunings
This section includes a list of the most important (usually) available recordings by Hawaiian Slack Key guitarists in each of the 50 tunings in the CHART OF RECORDED TUNINGS-SECTION IVa, that have had songs recorded in them (the other 12 tunings in the chart that are closely related to another tuning in the chart, bur have not had any songs recorded in them are also listed here, for continuity).
The following information is listed for each tuning (the number of the tuning coincides to its number in the tuning chart on page 34). Here are some particulars about this section:
Artists which have recorded a particular tuning are listed alphabetically under that tuning.
The titles of the recordings are in all capital letters; the record label and number, indication of whether the title is out-of-print (no longer commercially available) and information on whether the Slack Key artist listed is backing up somebody else are also indicated. If the song has another title, we will indicate this within parentheses.
Song titles are in italics and are separated by a semi-colon. Medleys have slashes between their component songs.
There may be discrepancies in the spellings of some of the song titles. For reference purposes, the titles in this booklet are spelled as printed on the recordings unless there had been an obvious typographic error on the album notes.
If a song is played in a key other than the key of the tuning or if the guitar is tuned noticeably higher or lower than the normal pitch the tuning is in, or if the guitar is capoed to a higher pitch, this will be indicated after the song or songs.
When a song is played in a key other than the key the tuning is in, we will indicate that, and even if the guitar is capoed (tuned up or tuned down in pitch from the normal key the tuning is in) we will indicate the keys played if the tuning was tuned to a normal pitch or not capoed. For example, if a song is in G Major Tuning (Tuning #G1) and is played (fingered) in the keys of G and C in that tuning, but the guitar is tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, we will still say, “this song is played in the keys of G and C in this tuning,” rather than saying that “the song is played in the keys of F and Bb”; and, for example, if the guitar is capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A, we will also say that ‘this song is played in the keys of G and C,” rather than “played in the keys of A and D.”
Sometimes the guitar is capoed up to raise to a higher pitch. Occasionally if the step is one or two steps higher, the guitar may actually be tuned to a higher pitch. If this is known, it will be stated that the guitar is tuned to the higher pitch. If this is unknown, then the concert pitch (i.e., key of G for G Major Tuning, tuning #G1) will be stated and then the capo position will be stated for the raise in pitch (for example, we would day “on this song the guitar is capoed to the 2nd fret to sound in the key of A.”
If you want to play along with a song, a good tape recorder to use is the Marantz PMD-201. This recorder can lower the key that the song is played in as low as 3 half steps, as well as raise it as high as 3 half steps. This way, if a song is in a slightly different pitch that your guitar is tuned to, you can change the pitch (and the speed will change as well). This recorder also has half speed capability that makes the song sound in the same key but one octave lower, which is very useful for figuring out fast passages. The speed variatior can be used for the half speed setting as well.The term “anthology recording” will be used to describe a recording that uses tracks by various artists.
The term “best of” will be used when there is a anthology of a single artist’s pieces from just that artist’s various recordings.
If the same track appears on two recordings, the information will be given for both recordings, unless some of them are long out of print and hard to find.
Out of print status may change from time to time. Once a recording goes out of print, it often stays that way, but sometimes will come back printed in a new format, such as on compact disc.
Songs to be released on future recordings on Dancing Cat Records, or songs from films, or existing songs in unusual tunings that are unrecorded and that will not be out for a while will generally not be listed unless they are the only songs that illustrate that tuning.
The guitarists are listed alphabetically within each tuning. When listening, keep in mind that sometimes there are instruments other than the Slack Key guitar. When there are two guitarists playing, often the second guitar is a rhythm guitar part in a standard tuning, and usually the recording has a bass, a `ukulele, and sometimes other instruments. When there are two guitarists playing Slack Key they are both noted and cross–referenced, including if they are both in different tunings (most of the tracks on the Dancing Cat releases will be just one solo guitar).
‘Okinas will generally not be used in this document for song titles if they are not used on the recording, and also if artists don’t not use them for their names.
Here are some helpful suggestions for pronouncing Hawaiian words:
a is sounded like the word ‘ah’
i is pronounced like ‘ee’ in the word ‘see’
o sounds like ‘o’ in the word ‘go’
e is pronounced two ways – like ‘ay’ in ‘bay’ or as ‘e’ in the word ‘men’
u sounds like ‘oo’ in the word ‘too.’
All syllables are pronounced separately, and basically most Hawaiian words are sounded by pronouncing all the vowels. For example, ka’a is pronounced ‘kah–ah’.
G1. D–G–D–G–B–D
Often called Taro Patch Tuning, Open G Tuning, Mokihana Tuning or Low Bass G Tuning. Sometimes called Spanish Tuning in Mainland America. Sometimes tuned up as high as the key of Ab or down as low as the key of F# or F. Also can be played solo effectively in the keys of C and D.
Kuulei Ahuna (with Da Blahlas):
Da Blahlas – Mirrors of My Mind (Pumehana Records 4910 – out-of-print)
· Big Island Slack Key
Da Blahlas (Poki Records 9015)
· Paani Ilima (Finger Exercise) – This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Ku Lua O Ka Manawa (Pumehana Records 4907)
· Sand – Played in the key of C. This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Eldon Akamine (with the group Kaimana):
Na Pua O O`ahu (Pumehana Records 4901)
Lei Pukana
Matsonia
Roselani Blossoms – Capoed up 3 frets to sound in the key of Bb)
Carlos Andrade (with Na Pali):
Na Pali - Pacific Tunings (Awapuhi Records 101 [AWA 8538])
Aloha Ha’ene
Hula Lady
Haunani Apoliona:
Na Lei Hulu Makua, Na Wahine Hawai’i (Prism Records Hawai`i 4008)
Na Moku Kaulana
`Auhea `Oe E Sanoe – Field Recordings of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar [Anthology Recording] (Topsoil Records 7046) – To order, contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Ka-Wai-Puna-O-Ha`ao
Makalapua `Oe Pa `Olapa Kahi [backing up Frank Hewitt] (Prism Records 4004)
Aloha Ka Leo O Kahi Manu
Hawai`i Moku O Keawe – Capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of A.
Ka Wai Lehua `A`ala Ka Honua
Kuakapuokalani – Capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of A.
Makalapua `Oe – Played in the keys of G and C.
Na Hiwa Kupuna O Ku`u One Hanau [backing up Kuuipo Kumukahi] (Ho`oli Productions 7800)
Alemai
Haunani Ki Ho`alu – Played in the keys of C and G.
Kumukahi – On 12-string guitar played in the keys of C and G.
Chet Atkins:
Alone (RCA Records 0159 – out-of-print) – Also available on a 2 CD set of three recordings, Chet Atkins – Pickin’ My Way – In Hollywood – Alone (RCA 787).
Hawaiian Slack Key (title is actually `Opihi Moemoe, composed by the late Leonard Kwan).
Keola Beamer:
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar in the Real Old Style (Music of Polynesia Records 22000)
Guava Tree
Hawaiian Cowboy – On this song the guitars are capoed up to the third fret to sound in the key of Bb.
Pupu Hinuhinu
Wi Ha (Celebration)
Mauna Kea (White Mountain Journal) (Dancing Cat 38011)
Manu Kai
Soliloquy – Ka Leo O Loko (Dancing Cat 38012)
Kolowaka
Mino`aka
Moana’s Laundry Basket
Kolonahe (From The Gentle Wind) (Dancing Cat 38047)
Shaka Slack Key – Played in the keys of G and C.
Sweet Maui Moon (Paradise Records 980)
Shaka Slack Key– Played in the keys of G and C.
Island Born (`Ohe Records 96118)
Kahuli
Music Of Hawaii [anthology recording] (National Geographic Society Records 706 – out-of-print)
Manu Kai
The Beamer Brothers (Keola and Kapono Beamer):
This Is Our Island Home – We Are Her Sons (Music of Polynesia Records 29000)
Green Rose Hula – With both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#, and played in the keys of G and F, therefore sounding in the keys of F# and E.
Medley: Hilo Au/Hilo E – With both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Living on Easy – With both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Ka Aina Kamuela– With both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Kahana Kamalai`i– With both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#, and played in the keys of G and C, therefore sounding in the keys of F# and B
Ke Ai Nei – With both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Moani – With Kapono playing in this tuning, tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and Keola in G Wahine Tuning (#G5: D–G–D–F#–B–D), tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Sassy Hula – With both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#, and played in the keys of G and C, therefore sounding in the keys of F# and B.
Pupu Hinu Hinu (Medley) – [with the songs Pupu Hinu Hinu/ Kahli Aku/ Kahuelo ‘Opae] - With Kapono playing in the keys of G and C, and Keola playing in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E), in the keys of G and C.
Wahine Holo Lio – With both guitars tuned down to one half step to sound in the key of F#, and played in the keys of E minor and G Major, therefore sounding in the keys of Eb minor and F# Major.
Music Of Hawaii (National Geographic Society Records 706 – out-of-print)
Ulile E
Tommy Blaisdell:
Mokihana Slack Key -Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists - Originally issued on 45-RPM and 78-RPM (49th State Records #192A – out-of-print) – on this track a second guitarist plays lead guitar in the Standard Tuning (#C33: E-A-D-G-B-E), playing in the key of G.
Danny Carvalho:
Slack Key Journey-On My Way (Lava Rock Music LRM-001)
Aloha Oe - On this song the guitar is capoes up two frets to sound in the key of A
Booboo’s Lullaby - In this song the guitar is capoes up five frets to sound in the key of C
Europa
Hula Blues
Hawaiian Soul - In this song the guitar is capoes up three frets to sound in the key of B flat
I’ll Remember You
Medley: Ke Wailele ‘O Nu’uanu / Waika – This song is played in the key of D in this tuning
Slack Key #1
The Owl’s Lullaby
Somewhere (Lava Rock Music LRM-002)
Bridge Over Troubled Waters
Imagine
Ka Makani Ka’ili Aloha
Maile Swing
Maui Chimes
Pua Lilia
Sangsangy - In this song the guitar is capoes up two frets to sound in the key of A
Sonny Chillingworth:
Sonny Solo (Dancing Cat 38005)
Hoomalu Slack Key
Kukuna O Ka La – Tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A.
Kaula Ili
Ka Wai Lehua `A `Ala Ka Honua – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Moe ‘Uhane (Dream Slack Key) – Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab.
Pua Tubarose – Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab.
Wai Ulu - Uses a “needle and thread” technique
Endlessly (Dancing Cat 38027)
Aloha Hale O Ho`oponopono – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Endlessly – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Hilo Hanakahi
Hula Blues
`Imi Au la `Oe (King’s Serenade) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ipo Lei Manu
Kananaka
Keiki Slack Key
Liloa’s Mele (Grandson’s Lullaby) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Mai Poina `Oe la`u (Not to be Forgotten) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Moana Chimes/Pa`ahana
Na Pua Ka `Ilima – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
`Olu O Pu`ulani – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Slack Key #1
Slack Key #2 (Mahina’s Trot)
Waimea Cowboy (Lehua Records SLCD 2003)
Hawaiian Lullaby
Hula Blues
Kaula Ili
Maui Chimes – Played in the keys of G and D.
Moana Chimes (with Pa’ahana)
Pa`ahana
Slack Key #1
Sonny Chillingworth (Lehua Records 2014 – out-of-print)
Kaleponi
Aloha I’a O Wai’anae
Ka`aina O Hawaii (Lehua Records 2040 – out-of-print)
Kimo’s Slack Key
None Hula
Rainbow (Lehua Records 7021)
Ia`oe E Molokai – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Sonny (Poki Records 9025 – out-of-print)
Beauty Hula
Honolulu Harbor
Meleana E/Tomo Pono – Also appears on the anthology recording The Best Of Bill Murata – The Producer (Pumehana Records 4924).
Hawaii Aloha: Echoes of Old Hawaii [Anthology Recording] (Waikiki Records 107 – out-of-print)
Slack Key Medley (title given on the album jacket –the actual title is Moana Pa’ahana Chimes) – Also issued on 45-RPM under the real title, Moana Pa`ahana Chimes (Waikiki Records 45-570 – out-of-print)
Melveen With the Best of Slack Key [backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Makee ‘Ailana
None Hula – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Waikiki Swings (Anthology album - Hula Records 520 – out-of-print)
2 Song Medley: Whee-Ha Swing/ Hula Blues – Hula Blues is tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A. The other song in the medley, Whee Ha Swing, is in the G Wahine Tuning (#G14: D–G–D–F# –B–D), tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A.
Hanohano Olinda [backing up Leinaala Haili] (Lehua Records 2029)
Pa`ahana
No Ka Oi [backing up Leinaala Haili] (Makaha Records MS 2051/ Lehua Records SL 2051)
Moku Kia Kahi
Neki Hula
Kainoa [nacking up Marlene Sai] (Sounds of Hawaii Records SHS – 5001
Kaulana Na Pua
Naka Pueo
Drinking Champagne [backing up Myra English] (Hula Records HS – 542)
Fireman’s Hula
Kauhale O Kamapua’a
Charles Chu:
`Auhea `Oe E Sanoe – Field Recordings Of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar [Anthology Recording] (Topsoil Records 7046) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
He Aloha No O Honolulu
Latitu
Pat Cockett (with Na Pali):
Na Pali – Pacific Tunings (Awapuhi Records 101)
Waianae
Na Pali (Awapuhi Records AWA 8538)
Blossom
The Rose of Ko’olau
Ua Mau –Hosana – With Pat playing in this tuning, and Carlos Andrade playing in tuning #D6 (D-A-D-F# -B-D) and capoed up five frets to sound in the key of G.
Cindy Combs (Dancing Cat 88697-09883-3)
Sunny Rain
Night Blooming Cereus
Ry Cooder: Show Time (Warner Brothers 3059)
How Can a Poor Man Stand Such Times and Live
George Keoki Davis:
Slack Key Hula - Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Also reissued on the anthology recording Hawaiian Steel Guitar 1920s–1950s (Folklyric Records 9009) and on the Japanese anthology recording on A Guide to Hawaiian Music (Audiobook Label – Japanese import), compiled by Yuki Yamauchi
– Tuned up a half step to sound in the key of Ab. Originally issued on 78-RPM (Bell Records LKS 504-B – out-of-print).
George Keoki Davis and Willie Davis:
Kanaka Hula –Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists - Tuned up a half step to sound in the key of Ab. Originally issued on 78-RPM (Bell Records # LKS 503B – out-of-print).
Mike Hoomanawanui:
Hula Medley –Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued on 45-RPM and 78-RPM (49th State Records #HRC 61B – out-of-print).
Atta Isaacs, Sr.:
Atta (Tradewinds Records 1126 - reissued as THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS–INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000)
Lei Ohaoha
Na Molokama
Nu`a O Ka Palai – Played in the keys of G and C.
Sweet Lei Lehua – Played in the keys of G and Bb.
Wiliwili Wai
Two Slack Key Guitars [with Gabby Pahinui] (Tradewinds Records 5524)
Ka Ua Noe (The Misty Rain) – A Slack Key duet with Atta playing in this tuning, and Gabby Pahinui playing in the G Wahine Tuning (#G4: D–G–D–F#–B–D). [On the cassette tape issue of this album, this song is unfortunately sped up to sound in the key of A, and, on the first CD reissue of this album, this song was erroneously labeled as March Medley]. This track has also been reissued on the album reissued as THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS–INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000).
Melveen With the Best Of Slack Key [backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Paliakamoa
Steel Guitar Hawaiian Style [with Jerry Byrd] (Lehua Records 7023)
Hanalei Moon – Played in the keys of G and Ab.
Kalima Waltz – This is a rare track featuring Slack Key guitar with acoustic steel guitar, played by Jerry Byrd.
Maui Chimes – Played in the keys of E and G and A and D
15 Hawaiian Favorites (backing up Poki San) – Also issued with the title Instrumental Hawaiian Favorites – Poki San & Friends (Poki Records 9002 – out-of-print).
Ka Makani Ka`ili Aloha
Kanaka Wai Wai
The Waimanalo Keikies – Mele Kalilimaka
Little Drummer Boy
Al Ka’ai:
Al Kaai and Friends – Something Old, Something New (Kahanu Records 1015 –out-of-print)
Kalaka`ua Medley – Also titled Waialae
Kamalani O Keaukaha – Played in the keys of G and D.
Kuahiwi Slack
Little Garden Jamboree
Lovely Hula Girl
Moani Chimes
Three–Four Jam (includes Waialae)
White Wash
George Kaapana [backing up Tina Kaapana] (George Kaapana is Led Kaapana’s late father):
Punalu`u –Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued on 45–RPM (49th State Records #370 – out-of-print).
Led Kaapana:
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015)
Aloha Ia No O Maui – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Black Sand (aka Portuguese Slack Key)
Ninipo Ho`onipo
Nui Papa – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Salomila/New `Opihi Moemoe – This is a pure Slack Key duet with Led playing Salomila in this tuning and Leonard Kwan simultaneously playing New `Opihi Moemoe on second guitar in the G Wahine Tuning (#G4: D–G–D–F#–B–D).
Waiakanaio
Led Live – Solo (Dancing Cat 38008)
He Aloha No `O Honolulu – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#
Ku`u Ipo Onaona
`Opihi Moemoe
Radio Hula– Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#
Lima Wela! (Leahi Records 2001 – reissued on Shaka Records SCD 3003)
Aloha Ia O Waianae
Kokee
Memphis - Led plays the main Slack Key part in this tuning on acoustic guitar and plays a second guitar part in Standard Tuning (#C33: E–A–D–G–B–E), in the key of G.
Opihi Bounce
Simply Slack Key (Paradise Records 970)
He Aloha No O Honolulu – Led plays the main Slack Key part in this tuning on acoustic guitar and plays a second guitar part in Standard Tuning (#C33: E–A–D–G–B–E), in the key of G on electric guitar.
Lei Kikania – Led plays the main Slack Key part in this tuning on acoustic guitar and plays a second guitar part in Standard Tuning (#C33: E–A–D–G–B–E), in the key of G on electric guitar.
Kiho’alu Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Rhythm And Roots Records IT-0307)
Aloha Ia No ‘O Maui
Fish Market Slcak Key
He Aloha No ‘O Honolulu
Kolomona Slack Key
Living On Easy
‘Opihi Moe Moe
Pau Hana Slack Key - capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of A
Pau Pilikia
San Antonia Rose
Slack Key Lullaby
Grandmaster Slack Key Guitar (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-0309)
Aloha Oa O Waianae
Waialae
Kaulana Na Pua
Hawai’i Aloha
Kalua
The Legend – (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-0318)
E lili’u E - Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Holua
Ho’okena
Tehere moe
Wai O Ke aniani - Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kika Kila Meets Ki Ho`alu [Duet with Bob Brozman on acoustic] (Dancing Cat 38031)
E Lili`u E – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Ka Lei E – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Lei `Awapuhi (Yellow Ginger Lei) – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Maika`i No Kaua`i – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Maile Lau Li`ili`i – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Maui Chimes – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Moana Chimes – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Pa`ahana – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Tre Moe – With Led playing in this tuning capoed up 5 frets to the key of C, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the Mainland C Major Tuning (#C3: C–G–C–G–C–E), playing in the keys of C and F.
In The Saddle [Duet with Bob Brozman] (Dancing Cat 38051)
Aloha Ia O Wai`anae – With Led playing in this tuning is capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of A, and Bob Brozman also in this tuning, tuned up two half steps to the key of A.
Ami Ami Slack Key – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
He `Olu La No`u (That’s Just Fine for Me) – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Ku`u Ipo Onaona – With Led playing in this tuning capoed up five frets to sound in the key of C, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning, tuned up five half steps to sound in the key of C.
Lei Ohu – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
No Ke Ano Ahiahi – With Led playing in this tuning, tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in G Major Tuning, tuned up five half steps to the key of C and playing in the 5th position in the key of F.
Pua Be Still – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in the G Major Tuning.
Force of Nature (duet album with 12-string rhythm guitarist Mike Kaawa – Mike plays all songs in the Standard Tuning [E-A-D-G-B-E] on the 12 string guitar accompanying Led Kaapana)
Medley: Moana Chimes/ My Yellow Ginger Lei/ Radio Hula
No Ke Ano Ahiahi – in this song Mike Kaawa plays the beginning lead guitar part on the 12 string guitar in the Standard Tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) in the key of G, and later the lead guitar is played by Led Kaapana inthe G Major Tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D)
‘Opihi Moemoe
Slack Key Lullaby
Slack Key Tuning Demo
Hana Hou [with Hui Ohana] (Lehua Records 7008)
Kuipo Ona Ona
Na Leo Ka Kani O Punahele [with group I Kona] (Pumehana Records 4908)
Black Sand (aka Portuguese Slack Key)– This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Jus’ Press [with the group I Kona] (Lehai Records 2004)
Nani
Ni`ihau – Hawaii [with the group Hui Ohana] (Pumehana Records 4919)
Salomila – With a second guitar played by Led Kaapana, also in this tuning.
Hui Ohana – Keko Kolu [with the group Hui Ohana, featuring Tina Kaapana] (Lehua Records 7012)
Hui Ohana – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Radio Hula
Nahenahe [with group I Kona] (Kahale Music 2200)
Moana Chimes – On acoustic steel guitar tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A.
I Kona – Ka Lua O Ka Manan`A [with the group I Kona] (Pumehana Records 4922)
Slack Key #1 (Aloha Ia No O Maui)
Hui Ohana Aloha Pumehana [with the group Hui Ohana] (Poki Records 7–9031)
San Antonio Rose – This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Hui Ohana from Kalapana to Waikiki [with the group Hui Ohana] (Lehua Records 7020)
Maui Chimes – Played in the keys of G and D.
Waltz Of The Wind (Dancing Cat 38016)
Ku`u Ipo Onaona
Les Flammes d’Enfer
My Yellow Ginger Lei
`Opihi Moemoe
Radio Hula
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Silent Night
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
Jingle Bells – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel also in the G Major Tuning.
Silver Bells
Nedward Ka’apana:
Hui Ohana [with the group Hui Ohana—the 1986 reunion album] (Paradise Records 920)
Kolomona Slack Key
Pana (Koa Records - KOA 105)
Portuguese Slack Key (aka Black Sand)
Wai Ulu – On this song the guitar is capoed up seven frets to sound in the key of D
Henry Kahalekahi:
Holau Medley (contains the songs Holau/Hoo Ki Paka/E Huli Hoi Mai) –- Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab. Originally issued in 1949 on 78-RPM (49th State Records # 89B– out-of-print)
Hookipa Paka-Maunawili Medley – Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab. Originally issued in 1949 on 78-RPM (49th State Records # HRC 96B – out-of-print)
The Strolling Troubadour - Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab. Originally issued in 1949 on 78-RPM (49th State Records # HRC 134B – out-of-print)
- NOTE: These three tracks are reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists.
George Kahumoku, Jr.:
Drenched By Music (Dancing Cat 38038)
Aloha `Oe – The 12 string guitar is capoed up five frets to sound in the key of C Aloha `Oe, and a second guitar part on nylon string guitar in tuning #D1 (D-A-D-F# -A-D), tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C.
Hanohano Hawai`i – With George playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in this tuning, playing in the key of F.
Kauanoeanuhea – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kaulana Na Pua – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Kaulana O Kawaihae – Tuned down to G.
Queen’s Jubilee – Capoed up four frets to sound in the key of B.
Hawaiian Love Songs (Na Mele Ho`Oniponipo Hawai`i) (Dancing Cat 38050)
E Ho`i I Ka Pili
Hawaiian War Chant – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ke Welina A Kealoha – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Keiki Mahine – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Lei Pikake – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Moko Hulu – With George playing one guitar in this tuning capoed up seven frets to sound in the key of D, and playing a second guitar part in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Moloka`i Slide – With George playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar also in this tuning, tuned to G, and playing in the key of F.
Nakalele – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Nu `Oli – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
The Queen’s Prayer – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Paniolo Slack Key – Songs of the Hawaiian Cowboy (Kealia Farms Records FKRC 1017)
He Mele No La Lio – played in the keys of G and E minor, and tuned down two half steps to sound in the keys of F and D minor.
Ka ‘Opae - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kilalkila Na Roughrider - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kilakila ‘O Haleakala - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kona Kai Opua - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kupa Landing – played in the key of D
Ku’u Hoa Hololio - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ku’u Pete - capoed up five frets to sound in the key of C.
Maika’i Kamakani ‘O Kohala - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Moani Ke’ala - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Pu’uanahulu
Ulupalakua
Waialae - played in the keys of D and G, and tuned down two half steps to sound in the keys of C and F.
Kahomoku – Priest of the Land (Kealia Farms Records FKRC 1019)
He Mele Kapa Na Ke’aka
Ho’oipa Kamaha’o - capoed up 3 frets to sound in the key of B flat.
Honokohau - tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Ka La Kawika Malo
Kahalewai
Lilia Nanea - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Mohala- tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Mohala (instrumental) - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Na ‘Ona O Ka Aina
Kahomoku – Maui Slack Key Christmas (Kealia Farms Records FKRC 1018)
Aloha Kalkimaka - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Christmas Eve at Keawila’i - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and played in the keys of D and B minor, sounding in the keys of C and A minor.
December is the Season - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and played in the keys of G and E minor, sounding in the keys of F and D minor.
Kaukini Christmas - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Keiki Kane Ho’okani Pahu (Little Drummer Boy) - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and played in the keys of D and B minor, sounding in the meys of C and A minor.
Feliz Navidad - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Mele Kalikimaka Ia’Oe - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
‘O ‘Oe ‘Io - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and played in the key of D, sounding in the key of C.
On Maui This Christmas Day - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and played in the key of D, therefore in the key of C.
Po Lai E (Silent Night) – played in the keys of C and G
Ua Mau (Hosana) - tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and played in the key of D, sounding in the key of C.
Wao Akua – The Forest of the Gods - (Daniel Ho Creations DHC 80087)
36 Mile Marker – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Pauoa Like Ka Lehua – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Pupu A’o ‘Ewa
Nanea Ko Maka Le’ale’a - Capoed up 5 frets to sound in the key of C.
Kahakuloa
No Ke Ano Ahiahi – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ka Lae ‘O Ka’ena – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Aia La ‘O Pele – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Pauahi ‘O Kalani – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Maluhia Ame Lokahi – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ka’inapu Lio Li’i Li’i – Played in the keys of D and G uned down two half steps to sound in the keys of C and F.
Moanike’ala – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ha’uha’u E– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Na Ali’i– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Makalapua – Played in the key of D, and tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C.
Waikamoi – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kukae Nene – Capoed up 3 frets to sound in the key of B Flat.
Ka Lama ‘Ae One– Capoed up 3 frets to sound in the key of B Flat.
Hilo One– Played in the keys of D and G, and tuned down two half steps to sound in the keys of C and F.
A Kona Hema ‘O Ka Lani – Capoed up 3 frets to sound in the key of B Flat.
Punalau– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kapalili Lau Niu – Capoed up 3 frets to sound in the key of B Flat.
Alo Hihia – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kaua i ka Huahua’i– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Footprints in the Poi – George Kahumoku Jr. Live !! (Kealia Farms Record Company FKRC 1011)
Aloha ‘Oe– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ama Ama – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hanohano Hawai’i/ Sweet Lei Lehua –Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of E Flat.
Hawaiian War Chant – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of E Flat..
Kawalewai – Fingered in the keys of G and C - tuned down two half steps, therefore sounding in the keys of F and B Flat.
Lokimaika’i (Amazing Grace) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Mauna Kea Mosquito – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of E Flat.
Moani Ke’ala – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of E Flat.
Seeds of Aloha Soundtrack (Kealia Farms Records)
36 Mile Marker– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Aloha ‘Oe– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Dad’s Slack Key – (with Moses Kahumoku on second guitar) – Both guitars are tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
December at Mauna Kea– (with Moses Kahumoku on second guitar) – Both guitars are tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Green Flash – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hale O Ho’oponopono – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hale ‘Olu– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hawai’i Aloha– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ho’okupu – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kealia
Mauna Kea Mosquito – (with Moses Kahumoku on second guitar) – Both guitars are tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Muliwai - Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ku’u Aina Aloha O Lahakuloa – Playing in the key of D, and tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Hawaian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 (Dancing Cat 38046)
Ulu Niu Ke`eke`e (The Crooked Coconut Tree) – With George playing one guitar capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A, and playing a second guitar part in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D), tuned down 3 half steps to sound in the key of A.
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Little Drummer Boy
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
Holy! Holy! Holy!
Troubled Paradise – traditional music from Hawai’i (Flying Fish Records 70607) –Soundtrack album from the documentary
Ho`oipo Kamaho – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Kai Malino – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Kealia – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Kona – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Na`ono O Ka`ina – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Hi`i Poi I Ka `Aina Aloha (Cherish the Beloved Land) [backing up Aunty Edith Kanaka`ole] (Hula Records HS-568)
Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai (The Plants of the Sea)
Pua Melie (Plumeris Flower)
Nani Ke Kelie (Beautiful is the Gardenia)/ Makapula
Na Puna Na Ke Kupuna (A Favorite of Grandpa) –on this song the guitar is caped up 5 frets to sound in the ley of C
George Kahumoku, Sr. (the late father of Moses Kahumoku and George Kahumoku, Jr.):
Kai Malino – The Peaceful Sea [album by the Kahumoku Brothers] (Hula Records 577) ---this track is also on the album Seeds of Aloha Soundtrack (Kealia Farms Records)
Muliwai – Solo guitar and vocal track by George Kahumoku, Sr.
Moses Kahumoku:
Ho`okupu – The Gift (Dancing Cat 38023)
Hawai`i Aloha – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Ka`aha Point – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#.
Kaula `Ili – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#, and fingered in the keys of G and C (sounding in between the keys of F and F#, and in between the keys of Bb and B respectively.
Kona Kai `Opua – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#.
Laupahoehoe – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Le`ale`a Lihau – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Lei Ka`ahumanu – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#.
Moke’s Bounce #1 – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#.
Pane Mai – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Paniolo
Pauahi `O Kalani – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#.
Pohakuloa – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#
Ua (Rain) – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#..
U`i Lani – Tuned down about 2 half steps to sound between the keys of F and F#.
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Christmas Carol Waltz – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
Joy to the World – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hawaiian Slack Key (the Red Cassette) –Private issue
Hawaii Aloha – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F
Kalahiki – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#
Kipuka – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F
Kumakahi – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F#.
Lake Waiau – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F
Pohakaumanaka – Capoed up four frets to sound in the key of B.
Puhakuloa – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F
The Kahumoku Brothers (George and Moses Kahumoku):
Kai Malino – The Peaceful Sea (Hula Records 577) – George plays the12-string guitar, and Moses plays the nylon string guitar.
He Pumehana I Ku`u Poli – Both guitars tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E
Ho`okupu Kama Pua`a – Both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Ke Welina A Ke Aloha – Both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Lapa Lapa – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Mohala—George and Moses are both capoed up to the 5th fret to sound in the key of C, and a third guitar in the background is in C Wahine Tuning # C-5 (C-G-D-G-B-D)
You Are – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Uku – Both guitars tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Sweet and Sassy (The Kahumoku Brothers Records 1005) – George plays the 12-string guitar, and Moses plays the nylon string guitar.
Dad’s Slack Key – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
December at Mauna Kea – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hilo March/Maui Chimes – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kaula `Ili – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Pua Lilia – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Spanish Song – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Tennis Elbow Swing – Both guitars tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
More Than Words Can Say (The Kahumoku Brothers Records 1003 – out-of-print) – George plays the 12-string guitar, and Moses plays the nylon string guitar.
Keaila – Both guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Frank Palani Kaina [aka. Frank Palani] (with The Ho`opi`i Brothers):
Kauna (Poki Records 9030)
Kowali – Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab - played in the keys of C and G, therefore sounding in the keys of Db and Ab - this track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
George Kainoa (On the recording his name is erroneously spelled Kainoa – it is actually Ka`ainoa.):
Hawaii’s Merry Monarch – Kalakaua [anthology album] (Waikiki Records 338 – out-of-print)
Keoki’s Mele
Dennis Kamakahi:
Pua`ena (Glow Brightly) (Dancing Cat 38036)
Apapane – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Lei Kupukupu
Promises – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Eb.
Sweet By and By – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Wahine `Ilikea
`Ohana (Family) (Dancing Cat 38043)
He `Ai No Kalani – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ka `Opae – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
No Ke Aha – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
The Gift of Music – From Father to Son (Dennis Kamakahi Productions DKPCD 70012)
Dream Lady
Eddie Kamae Presents the Sons of Hawaii, Ho`omau [with up The Sons of Hawaii] (Hawaii Sons Records 5005)
Punalu`u Nani
Sweet By and By
Waipi`i
Eddie Kamae Presents the Sons of Hawaii [with up The Sons of Hawaii] (Hawaii Sons Records 1001)
Waipio Valley Song – Tuned down five half steps to sound in the key of D.
Eddie Kamae Presents the Sons of Hawaii [with up The Sons of Hawaii] (Hawaii Sons Records 2002)
Keiki Mahine – Tuned down five half steps to sound in the key of D.
Wahine Ili Kea
Wai Pahe`e – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F. --[Wai Pahe`e and Wahine Ili Kea – Also appear on Eddie Kamae Presents Sons of Hawaii Volume 1 (Hawaii Sons 7007)]
Eddie Kamae Presents the Sons of Hawaii – Pua Hone (Honey Flower) [with up The Sons of Hawaii] (Hawaii Sons Records 1003 [or 3003] )
Only You
Christmas Time with Eddie Kamae and the Sons of Hawaii [with up The Sons of Hawaii] (Hula Records 4004)
Christmas Long Ago
I Love Christmas – Tuned down a half step to sound in the key of F#.
Hui Aloha [as part of the band Hui Aloha, with Slack Key guitarist George Kuo, bassist Martin Pahinui and Dennis’ son, ukelele player David Kamakahi] (Dancing Cat 38053)
Pa`ahana – With Dennis playing in this tuning, capoed up two frets to the key of A, and George Kuo also in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of A.
Wai O Minehaha – With Dennis and George Kuo both playing in this tuning.
Waipi`i – With Dennis and George Kuo both playing in this tuning.
Whee Ha Swing – With Dennis playing in this tuning, and George Kuo on double-neck guitar with the 6 string neck in G Wahine Tuning (#G4: D–G–D–F#–B–D) and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Ray Kane:
Punahele (Dancing Cat 38001)
5 Song Medley: Kealoha/Papakolea/ E Huli Huli Ho`i Mai/Mauna Loa/Pua Makahala/Kealoha – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hawai`i Aloha – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Hula O Makee – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Mai `Ae I Ka Hewa – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Morning Dew – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Nanea Kou Maka I Ka Le’ale’a – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Pauoa Liko Ka Lehua – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Pua Sadinia – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ua Noho Au A Kupa – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Wai`anae Slack Key Hula – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Wa`ahila (Dancing Cat 38002)
Aloha Ka Manini – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Hilo E – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Honolulu Harbor – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
I Ka Po Me Ke Ao – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Keiki Slack Key – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Na Hoa He`e Nalu – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Lei Nani – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
‘Ulupalakua – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Wai O Ke Aniani – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Nanakuli’s Raymond Kane (Tradewinds Records 1130 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 52000], with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE –OLD STYLE SLACK KEY – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Keiki Slack Key
Maui Chimes – Played in the keys of G and D.
Nahoa He`enalu – Played in the keys of C and G.
`Ulupalakua
Wai O Ke Aniani
Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Leonard Kwan] (Tradewinds Records 106) – these tracks are reissued reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 52000], with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE –OLD STYLE SLACK KEY – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Auwe (this song is actually Meleana E) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Meleana E (this song is actually Auwe) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Willy’s Tune – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E, and played in the keys of C and G, therefore sounding in the keys of A and E - [Auwe, Willy’s Tune and Meleana E also appear on the anthology album Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2 (Tradewinds Records 104)]
Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2 [anthology album] (Tradewinds Records 104) – these tracks are reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 52000], with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE –OLD STYLE SLACK KEY – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Hawaiian Reverie – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Moana Chimes – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Abe Keala (with Da Blahlas):
Da Blahlas – Ka Lua O Ka Manawa (Pumehana Records 4907 – out-of-print)
Opihi Moemoe #2
Abe Keala and Kuulei Ahuna (with Da Blahlas):
Mirrors Of My Mind (Pumehana Records 4910)
Triple Decker
John Keawe:
Ahuele (Homestead Productions 1002
Akaka Falls – Played in the key of D
Kamakani O Kohala – Lovely is Kohala
Sea Breeze (Pua Mana)
Vaqueros
Hawaiian Wedding Song (Ke Kali Ne Au)
Old Timer’s Hula
Leslie’s Lullaby
Red Sails in the Sunset
Vaya Con Dios
Ho`onanea (Homestead Productions 1001)
Beyond the Reef – Played in the key of C.
Blue Hawai`i – Played in the key of C.
Hale Ipukukui – Played in the key of C.
Kaulana Na Pua
Keiki Slack Key
Kimo Hula – Played in the keys of C and G.
Ku`u Lei Awapuhi
Mama’s Music Box
Noho Au A Kupa – Played in the keys of C and G.
Puff the Magic Dragon – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Yellow Bird – Played in the key of D.
Yellow Ginger Lei
Mana’olana (Homestead Productions 1003)
Amazing Grace/ The Queen’s Prayer
Green Rose Hula
Hawaiian Lullaby/ Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Kohala Mountain Road
Kolealea
Ku’ihe – Played in the key of D, and capoed up two frets, to sound in the key of E
Lo’i Kalo
Mana’olana
Mana’olana (reprise)
Opihi Moe Moe
Paliakamoa
Pu’uanahulu
The Rose
Aloha Kaikua’ana (Homestead Productions 1006)
Aloha Kaikua’ana – both guitars are capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A
Hawai’I Aloha
He Aloha No O Honolulu – Played in the keys of C and G
Makee Ailana/Hula O Makee – with a second guitar part in Tuning # G-4 (D-G-D-F# -B-D), and both guitars are capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A
Radio Hula
We All Need Friends [with the Homestead Gang] (Homestead Productions -1202) –out-of-print
Kohala I Love You
The 1990s – Played in the key of C.
Sanoe – Played in the keys of Bb and C.
Waikaloa – Played in the key of C.
Heartfelt (Homestead Productions 1005)
Encantada – (both guitars are capoed up one fret to sound in the key of A flat)
Hal Kinnaman:
Early Hawaiian Slack Key Melodies for Guitar [with instruction book] (Ho`ike Publications, P.O. Box 159, Kihei, HI 96753 – out-of-print)
Hula Medley
Kanaka Wai Wai
My Ginger Lei
Opihi Moe Moe
2 Song Medley: `Ulupalakua/Old Timer’s Hula
Joanie Komatsu:
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Po La`i E (Silent Night)
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
O Holy Night (Po Hemolele)
Ozzie Kotani:
Kani Ki Ho`alu (Dancing Cat 38013)
Aloha Kaua`i
Birdie’s Slack Shake Key
Ione’s Theme (Joan’s Mele)
Kamalani O Keaukaha
Kani Ki Ho`alu
Kani Kipaipai
Kokoni Sachi Ari (Here is Happiness)
Mahinahina (The Pale Moonlight) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Maika`i Ka Makani O Kohala
Medley: Ahulili/I Ka Po Me Ke Ao/Mauna Loa
Medley: Opae E/Kaho`olawe
To Honor a Queen (E Ho`ohiwahiwa I Ka Mo`i Wahine) -The Music of Lili’uokalani
Ahe Lau Makani
He `Ai Na Kalani
Ka Hanu O Evalina – Playing in the keys of D and G.
Ka Wai `Apo Lani
Liliko`i
Moanalua – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Medley: Pauoakalani/Ku`u Pua I Paoakalani
Puna Paia `Al`ala
The Queen’s Prayer
Island View (issued on Ozzie Kotani’s own label – www.ozziekotani.com)
Ka Wailele O Nu’uanu – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ehu’s Trot
Island View – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Maui Serenade
Na Kika ‘Elua
Behold Laie – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
The Star Spangled Banner
Ke Aloha “Aina – Played in the keys of G and D
Hawaii Pono’i
Island View
Ho’ihi (Respect) – Traditional Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (issued on Ozzie Kotani’s own label www.ozziekotani.com)
E Lili’u E - duet with Tom Kaulakukui on second Slack Key guitar - on this song the guitars are capoed up five frets to sound in the key of C
Holomua – on this song the guitar is capoed up five frets to sound in the key of C
Hula Medley
Ka Ua Noe
Moana Chimes Tribute - duet with Tom Kaulakukui on second Slack Key guitar
Mele O Namakelua
Music for Dreaming
Old Timer’s Hula
Pua O Kamakahala/ Honolulu Harbor
Waikahe
Paka Ua (Raindrops) (Daniel Ho Creations DHC 80016)
Chet Atkins’ ‘Opihi Moemoe – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#
Goin’ Country- Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#
He Hawai’i Au
Ia ‘oa e Ka La e Alohi Nei - Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#
The Londonderry Air (Danny Boy) – played on a short neck guitar, and tuned up four half steps to sound in the key of B
Ka Wai O Namalikama – Capoed up four half steps to sound in the key of B
Ka’aheke Ki Ho’alu
Napili Chimes
Paka Ua
Classical Slack (Pacific Sound Design Records 1001 – out-of-print)
Behold Laie
Going Country
He Inoa No Kaiulani– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ka Ua Noe – Has two guitars, both tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Kaulana Na Pua– Played in the keys of E minor and G
Ku`u Pua `O Paoakalani – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Slack Key Hula –has two guitars, both in this tuning
Wahine Holo Lio – Played in the keys of E minor and G
Ku`u Pete– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
The First Noel – Tuned up four half steps to the key of B on a short neck guitar.
Jingle Bell Rock
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 (Dancing Cat 38046)
Slack Key Serenade – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E. This is a pure duet with Leonard Kwan on second guitar in the G Wahine Tuning (#G4: D–G–D–F#–B–D), also tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Elias Kuamo`o:
Moments with You [backing up Diana Aki] (Sunnyside Up Productions 101)
Ka Ua O Hilo (The Rain of Hilo)
George Kuo:
Aloha No Na Kupuna – Love of the Elders (Dancing Cat 38009)
Aia I Ka Maui
KHBC
Lullaby Chimes
Medley: Ahulili/Wai O Ka Aniani
Medley: Royal Hawaiian Hotel/Le`ahi/Kaimana Hila – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Nahenahe – Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Hula Records 576)
Hawaiian March Medley: Hilo March/Ainahau/Ka Makani O Kohala
Ho`oluana
Ho`omanawanui
Kane’s Tune
Ki Ho`alu `Ekahi (Slack Key #1)
Kolohe Medley: Nanea Kou Maka I Ka Le`ale`a/Hu`i E
Kona Kai `Opua
A Medley for Tutu: Hula O Makee/Manuela Boy
Radio Hula
O Ke Aumoe: Night of the Slack Key Guitar (Winter & Winter Records W&W 910 142-2)
Wailele O Akaka (Akaka Falls)
Kiho’ali Ekahi (Slack Key #1)
Medley: Aloha Oe/ Hawaii Aloha
Wai O Ke Aniani
Punalu’u
Lu’au Hula
Moana Chimes
March Medley: Hilo March/ Koni Au I Ka Wai/ AIa Hiki Mai
Pau Pilikia
Lullaby Chimes - In this song the guitar is tuned doen three half steps to sound in the key of E
Hawaiian Touch [duet album with Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38026)
Medley: Aloha No `O Honolulu Mauna Loa – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs playing acoustic steel guitar in the A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Hula Blues – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs playing acoustic steel guitar in the A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Maui Medley: Ke `Ala O Ka Rose/Ka Loke [Ka Loke O Maui]/Roselani Blossoms/Hanohano Olinda/Kilakila O Haleakala/Maui No Ka `Oi [a.k.a. Maui Chimes] – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs playing acoustic steel guitar in the A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Moana Chimes – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs playing acoustic steel guitar in the A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Ho’olahe (Listen) – [Backing up Martin Pahinui] (Dancing Cat 38054)
Beautiful Ilima - capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of A
C-A-T, Pöpoki Spells Cat - capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of A
Hanohano Hawai’i - capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of A
Na ‘Ono Ia Na Kupuna
Hardly Working [with the Kipapa Rush Band] (Kahanu Records 1004)
Aia Ka Maui
Hu`i E
Kowali
Sanoe – With George playing in this tuning in the keys of G and C, and Wayne Reis on second guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E), both playing in the keys of G and C.
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Fireside Ki Ho`alu
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
Mele Kalikimaka Ia `Oe (Merry Christmas to You) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Hui Aloha [as part of the band Hui Aloha, with Dennis Kamakahi, Martin Pahinui and David Kamakahi] (Dancing Cat 38053)
Pa`ahana – With George playing in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of A, and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of A.
Wai O Minehaha – With George and Dennis Kamakahi both in this tuning.
Waipi`i – With George and Dennis Kamakahi both in this tuning.
Kevin Kwan (with 3rd Road Delight):
From Now on It’s Only You (Mano`o Records 1001)
`Opihi Moemoe
Leonard Kwan:
Slack Key [with the red cover] (Tradewinds Records 103 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Manini
Opihi Bounce
Opihi Moemoe – Played in the keys of G and C. This song appears twice, at the beginning and at the end of the album, and both versions are the same track - [this track was also issued on 45 RPM - Leonard’s first recording for the Tradewinds Label, Opihi Meomoe, with “Modern Slack Key by Leonard Kwan” (Tradewinds 201-A – out-of-print)].
Yellow Ginger Lei - These same tracks of Yellow Ginger Lei and Manini (under the name Manini Chimes) also appear on the album Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106
Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Opihi Moemoe – Played in the keys of G and C. This track also appears on the anthology album Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume I (Tradewinds Records 102) [NOTE: it is a different version from the one on the album SLACK KEY (the “Red Album”), Tradewinds 103)
the Old Way (Tradewinds Records 1128 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Grandfather’s Clock
Sase
Ke`ala’s Mele (Dancing Cat 38004)
Kananaka
Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2 [with Leonard backing up Edwina Noelani Kanoho (Noelani Mahoe) and the vocal trio] [anthology album] (Tradewinds Records 104)
3 Song Waltz Medley: Noenoe Ua Kea O Hana/Remember Be Sure/Lei Awapuhi
Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 1 [anthology album] (Tradewinds Records 102)
Opihi Moemoe – Played in the keys of G and C. This track also appears on the album Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106) [NOTE: it is a different version from the one on the album SLACK KEY (the “Red Album”), Tradewinds 103 – this song is reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
“Susy” Ana E (backing up the Kamaha’os Trio)
Twilight at Halekulani [with Leonard backing up The Halekulani Girls, a.k.a. The Alice Fredlund Serenaders, with Linda Dela Cruz and Sybil Andrews] (Tradewinds Records 107) - these same songs also appear on the “best of” album Best of Linda [with Leonard backing up Linda Dela Cruz] (Tradewinds Records 2201)
Ka Loke
Ke Ala Oka Rose – Tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A.
Evening in the Islands [anthology album] (Tradewinds Records 113 – out-of-print)
Moani Ke Ala– With Leonard backing up Neolani [Kanoho (now Mahoe)] & the Twilighters. This track was also issued on 45 RPM (Tradewinds 201-B –out-of- print) [this was the flip side of Leonard’s first recording for the Tradewinds Label, Opihi Meomoe, with “Modern Slack Key by Leonard Kwan” (Tradewinds 201-A – out-of-print)].
Elmer Kohala Lim (with The Lim Family):
The Lim Family – Ku Kaulana (Pumehana Records 4925)
Ahuala
Hula O Ha`ea Ku`u Tutu
Kua Hale O Kumupua`a
Sounds from Kohala (Pumehana Records 4911)
Ku`u Lei Hoku
Po La Ila`i
Pua`ilihi
Waiomana
The Lim Family – More Sounds from Kohala (Pumehana Records 4915)
Ka Loke
Niuli`i Waltz
Pololu
The Lim Family – Ma`o`i`o Mana`Olana A Me Ke Aloha (Pumehana Records 4923)
Ahe`olu`olu
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Some New Things! Ki Ho`alu: He Mau Mea Hou! (Topsoil Records 9083)
Ka Pineki
Kasem Boonchoo Nursery – Played in the key of D.
Mallonee Slack Key March
Backyard Slack Key & Autoharp (Topsoil Records 8128) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Elua Na Pua
Ka Pineki
Ke Kali Nei
Kuwili Na Lima
Wa`ali`ili`i Chimes
The Life Of The Land (Topsoil Records 7064) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
California Slack Key
Manuela Boy – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Maui Chimes – Played in the keys of G and D.
Elmer Kohala Lim (with The Lim Family):
The Lim Family – Ku Kaulana (Pumehana Records 4925)
Ahuala
Hula O Ha`ea Ku`u Tutu
Kua Hale O Kumupua`a
Sounds from Kohala (Pumehana Records 4911)
Ku`u Lei Hoku
Po La Ila`i
Pua`ilihi
Waiomana
The Lim Family – More Sounds from Kohala (Pumehana Records 4915)
Ka Loke
Niuli`i Waltz
Pololu
The Lim Family – Ma`o`i`o Mana`Olana A Me Ke Aloha (Pumehana Records 4923)
Ahe`olu`olu
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Some New Things! Ki Ho`alu: He Mau Mea Hou! (Topsoil Records 9083)
Ka Pineki
Kasem Boonchoo Nursery – Played in the key of D.
Mallonee Slack Key March
Backyard Slack Key & Autoharp (Topsoil Records 8128) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Elua Na Pua
Ka Pineki
Ke Kali Nei
Kuwili Na Lima
Wa`ali`ili`i Chimes
The Life Of The Land (Topsoil Records 7064) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
California Slack Key
Manuela Boy – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Maui Chimes – Played in the keys of G and D.
Peter Moon (with the Peter Moon Band):
Chinatown (Kanikapila Records 1003)
Ku`u Hoa`aloha – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Full Moon (Kanikapila Records 1007)
Kalaiwi – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
O Triple C – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Harbor Lights (Kanikapila Records 1001)
Aloha `Oe – Tuned down two steps steps to sound in the key of F.
Heat Wave (Kanikapila Records 1016)
Ka Huila Wai – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Laimana – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Iron Mango (Kanikapila Records 1014)
I Don’t Want to Talk About It – With Martin Pahinui on vocals.
Kaleleonalani
Na Pua Ka`ilima – Capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of A.
Slack Key Cantabile
Malie (Panini Records 1011)
Maori Brown Eyes
Pelekane
2 Song Medley: Opihi Moe Moe/Whee Ha Swing – Opihi Moe Moe is played by Peter Moon in this tuning, capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.. The second part of this medley, Whee Ha Swing, is played by Cyril Pahinui in the G Wahine Tuning (#G5: D–G–D–F#–B–D), also capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Midnight Sun (Kanikapila Records 1012)
Halau Lani I Ke Ao – The second guitar part, the single note lead guitar, is also played by Peter Moon, in the Standard Tuning (#C27: E–A–D–G–B–E), in the key of G.
Hanalei Bay – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Manowaiopuna/Ko`ula – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
The Power – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
The Music Makers (Kanikapila Records 1009)
Hanawi
Slack Key & Steel Guitar Instrumentals, Volume 2 (formerly titled Kani Ka Pila! Volume 2) [with The Maile Serenaders] (Hula Records 531)
`Ia `Oe E Ka La
Kananaka – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A, and played in the keys of C and G.
Nanea Ko Maka
These tracks also appear on the recording The Best Of Gabby, Volume 2 (Hula Records 585) and are erroneously attributed to Gabby Pahinui instead of Peter Moon.
Tropical Storm (Panini Records 1009)
He Mea Nui Ke Aloha – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Peter Moon Band (with Cyril Pahinui):
Cane Fire (Panini Records 1012)
Maunaloa
Peter Moon (with The Sunday Manoa):
The Sunday Manoa – Cracked Seed (Panini Records 1003)
Hula Lady
Na Moku Eha – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
The Queen’s Jubilee – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A, and played in the keys of G Major and G minor.
Hawaiian Time (Hula Records 528)
Maori Brown Eyes
Wai O Minehaha
Guava Jam (Hula Records 543)
He Hawai`i Au – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Maika`i Ka Makani O Kohala – Capoed up 4 frets to sound in the key of B. [gw to check]
The Sunday Manoa 3 (Panini Records 1005)
Eleu Mikimiki
Meet Palani Vaughan & the Sunday Manoa [with Peter backing up Palani Vaughan] (Hula Records 524)
Lei Onaona
`Ohi`a Hua Palaku
George Nainoa:
Stringing Along with You Hawaiian Style [anthology album] (Waikiki 108 – out-of-print)
2 Song Medley: Pua O Kamakahala/Honolulu Harbor
William Namahoe
Music for Dreaming – on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued 78-RPM (49th State Records #121B – out-of-print). Reissued
George Kaapana [backing up Tina Kaapana] (George Kaapana is Led Kaapana’s late father):
Punalu`u –Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued on 45–RPM (49th State Records #370 – out-of-print).
Daniel Nicholas:
`Auhea `Oe E Sanoe – Field Recordings of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar [Anthology Recording] (Topsoil Records 7046) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Daniel’s Mele #1
Daniel’s Mele #2
Bla Pahinui:
Gabby (the “Brown Album) (Panini Records 1002) – [with Bla playing nylon string guitar backing up Gabby Pahinui; Gabby on 12 string guitar]
Leahi - The introduction is played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), played in the key of C, and tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E), tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Lei No Ka`iulani – The introduction is played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), capoed up three frets to sound in the key of Bb. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (# C22: C-G-E-G-A-E), tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Lihue - The introduction and the ending are played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), and the intro and the ending use the chords D minor to G, resolving to C, capoed up one fret to sound in the key of C#. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Wahine Tining (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E), capoed up one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Cyril Pahinui:
He’eia (Dancing Cat 88697-09882-2)
Ki’Ho’alu
6 & 12 String Slack Key (Dancing Cat 38010)
Young Street Blues
Cyril (Pahinui Records 6068)
I Ka Po Me Ke Au – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Wai Oke Ani Ani
Gabby Pahinui:
Pure Gabby (Hula Records 567)
`Ahulili – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Lei Nani – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Lihu`e
Mauna Loa – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Slack Key Hula (3 Song Medley): Mauna Loa/Moana Chimes/Pua Be–Still
Wai Hu`ihu`i O Ke Aniani – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
- Wai Hu`ihu`i O Ke Aniani and Mauna Loa also appear on Gabby’s “Best Of” recording The Best of Gabby, Volume 2 (Hula Records 585).
Wai O Ke Aniani –Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#. Originally issued in 1946 on 78-RPM (Bell Records # LKS 510A – out-of-print).
The Best of Hawaiian Slack Key With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 340)
Ahulili
Mauna Loa
Wai Hu`ihu`i `O Ke Aniani
Hawaiian Slack Key, Volume 1 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 319)
Ka Anoi - Played in the keys of G and Bb.
Hawaiian Slack Key, Volume 2 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 320)
Tahiti Nui
Slack Key & Steel Guitar Instrumentals, Volume 2 (formerly titled Kani Ka Pila! Volume 2) [with The Maile Serenaders] (Hula Records 531)
Ia `Oe E Ka La – This song actually features Peter Moon on Slack Key guitar and is erroneously attributed to Gabby Pahinui.
Nanea Ko Maka I Ka Le`ale`a
- These same two tracks also appear on Gabby’s “Best Of” recording The Best Of Gabby, Volume 2 (Hula Records 585).
Gabby Pahinui With The Sons Of Hawaii (Hula Records 503)
Nani Kauai
In Hawaii the Story Starts [Anthology Recording] [backing up vocalist Louis Akau] (Waikiki Records 334)
Lei E – This track also appears on Duke Kahanamoku’s Favorites (Waikiki Records 124 – out-of-print).
Evening in the Islands – The Maile Serenaders [Anthology Recording] (Hula Records 509, also issued on Warner Brothers Records 1584 – out-of-print)
Pearly Shells (Pupu O Ewa)
Two Slack Key Guitars [with Atta Isaacs, Sr.] (Tradewinds Records 1124)
Manuela Boy – Played in the keys of C and G – and Atta Isaacs plays second guitar in Tuning #C1 (C-G-E-G-C-E).
Melveen With the Best of Slack Key [with Gabby backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Pua Alani
The Remarkable Voice of Hawaii’s Mahi Beamer, Authentic Hawaiian Songs [with Gabby backing up Mahi Beamer] (Hula Records 409 and Capitol Records 1282 – out-of-print)
Kahuli Aku Kahuli Mai
Pupuhinuhinu [Pupu Hinuhinu]
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Hi’ilawe
K’apana Aloha
Kalama’ula – played on the keys of D and G
Maluhia Slack Key
Manoa Rain – played on the keys of G, B, and A – in this song the guitar is tuned down a half step to sound in the keys of F#, Bb, and Ab.
Tommy Solomon:
Old Timer’s Hula –Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists – in this song is tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab. Originally issued on 45-RPM (49th State Records #90B – out-of-print).
Winston Tan
Tea Time at the Moana (Rosewood & Silver Records
Aloha Oe
Jim Kimo West:
Kimo Style (Westernmost Records WMR-30004-2)
My Little Grass Shack (in Kealakekua Hawai’i) – in this song the guitar is tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
The Hawaiian Wedding Song (Ke Kali Ne Au) – in this song the guitar is capoed up one half step to sound in the key of Ab.
Unknown Slack Key Guitarist (with Jessie Kalima and the Kalima Brothers) :
Richard Boone Slack Key – 45-RPM (Sounds of Hawaii 45-1000). Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Ab. and played in the keys of G and C, therefore sounding in the keys of Ab and Eb.
G2. D–G–C–G–B–D
(Nothing in Slack Key guitar has been recorded in this tuning)
G3. G–B–D–G–B–D
Called High Bass G Tuning. Used in the early days of the acoustic steel guitar, in the early 1900s, and is a common acoustic steel dobro tuning in Mainland America.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
G4. D–G–D–F#–B–D
Sometimes called Double Slack Tuning, G Slack Tuning, Auntie Alice Namakelua’s G Tuning, Auntie Alice Namakelua’s Tuning, Flatted G Tuning, or F# Tuning. Sometimes tuned up as high as the key of Ab or down as low as the key of F#, F, or E. Can also be played solo effectively in the key of D.
Carlos Andrade (with Na Pali):
Na Pali (Awapuhi Records AWA 8538)
Hanalei Bay Blues – Played in the key of D
Ua Mau –Hosana – Played in the key of D, and capoed up five frets to sound in the key of G.
Keola Beamer:
Soliloquy – Ka Leo O Loko (Dancing Cat 38012)
Pailolo
Island Born (`Ohe Records 96118)
Ka ‘Oni Ne Ka Huila - Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Le’ahi [kahuko over the “e”]
Na Ka Pueo - Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
True Hawaiian Way - Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Hawaian Slack Key Guitar [Flexi-disc with the instruction book] (Oak Publications – out-of-print)
Kamakani `Olu `Olu
The Beamer Brothers (Keola and Kapono Beamer)
This Is Our Island Home – We Are Her Sons [with Kapono Beamer] (Music of Polynesia Records 29000)
Moani – With Keola playing in this tuning, tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F, and Kapono in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Danny Carvalho:
Slack Key Journey-On My Way (Lava Rock Music LRM-001)
Whww Ha Swing
Sonny Chillingworth:
Sonny Solo (Dancing Cat 38005)
Charmarita/Malasadas (Portuguese Folk Song) – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Waimea Cowboy (Lehua Records SLCD 2003)
Hawaiian Lullaby
Malasadas
Whee Ha Swing
Sonny Chillingworth (Lehua Records 2014)
Portuguese Folk Song – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Sonny (Poki Records 9025 – out-of-print)
Whee Ha Swing – This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Hawaii Aloha: Echoes of Old Hawaii [Anthology Recording] (Waikiki Records 107)
Slack Key II (title given on the album jacket) [on the inner sleeve of the LP the title is Slack Key] – Also issued on 45-RPM under the real title, Whee Ha Swing (Waikiki Records 45-571 – out-of-print)
Waikiki Swings (Hula Records 520 – out-of-print)
2 Song Medley: Whee-Ha Swing/Hula Blues – Whee Ha Swing is tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A. The other song in the medley, Hula Blues, is in the G Major Tuning (#G1: (D–G–D–G–B–D) tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A.
Leinaala Haili [backing up Leinaala Haili] (Lehua Records 7007)
Pa`ahana
Pat Cockett (with Na Pali):
Na Pali - Pacific Tunings (Awapuhi Records 101)
Sinking Into the Blue
Na Pali (Awapuhi Records AWA 8538)
Wela E
Nolan Hao:
The Ho`aikanes Present Nolan Hao – Ki Ho`alu on the Back Porch (Kahanu Records 1017-out-of-print)
Opihi Momona Nui
Punahele
Hui Aloha (see George Kuo in this tuning section)
Al Ka’ai:
Al Kaai and Friends – Something Old, Something New (Kahuna Records 1015-out-of-print)
Sky’s Kiho`alu
Led Kaapana:
Led Live – Solo (Dancing Cat 38008)
Ki Ho`alu
Whee Ha Swing
Lima Wela! (Leahi Records 2001 – reissued on Shaka Records SCD 3003)
Whee Ha Swing
Hui Ohana [with the group Hui Ohana—the 1986 reunion album] (Paradise Records 920)
Kiho Alu – Capoed up to the forth fret to sound in the key of B.
Ikona – Ku Lua O Ka Manau`a [with the group I Kona] (Pumehana Records 4922)
Slack Key #2 (Freight Train)
George Kahumoku, Jr.:
Footprints in the Poi – George Kahumoku Jr. Live !! (Kealia Farms Record Company FKRC 1011)
Waipio Valley Song – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ray Kane:
Punahele (Dancing Cat 38001)
Punahele
Wa`ahila (Dancing Cat 38003)
Wa`ahila – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Nanakuli’s Raymond Kane (Tradewinds Records 1130 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 52000], with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE –OLD STYLE SLACK KEY – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Hi`ilawe
Wa`ahila
Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Slack Key guitarist Leonard Kwan] (Tradewinds Records 106 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 52000], with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE –OLD STYLE SLACK KEY – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Punahele – This track also appears on the anthology album Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2 (Tradewinds Records 104) – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F
- [on the album Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2, this same track is incorrectly pitched down three half steps to sound in the key of E]
Wa`ahila – This song also appears on the album Evening in the Islands [anthology album] (Tradewinds 113 – out-of-print), with the title Wa`ahila Slack Key – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F
Abe Keala (with Da Blahlas):
Ke Aloha O Ku`u Kamakai`i (Kahanu Records 1016)
Punahele
John Keawe:
Ahuele (Homestead Productions 1002
Punahele
Aloha Kaikua’ana (Homestead Productions 1006)
Kiholo Bay
George Kuo:
Nahenahe – Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Hula Records 576)
Kohala Charmarita – ( ONE OF THE PREMIER SONGS IN THIS TUNING )
Aloha No Na Kupuna - Love of the Elders (Dancing Cat 38009)
Old Paniolo
O Ke Aumoe: Night of the Slack Key Guitar (Winter & Winter Records W&W 910 142-2)
Kohala Charmarita
Hui Aloha [As part of the band Hui Aloha, with Slack Key guitarist Dennis Kamakahi, bassist Martin Pahinui and ukelele player David Kamakahi] (Dancing Cat 38009)
Whee Ha Swing – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), and Dennis Kamakahi in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D).
Leonard Kwan:
Slack Key [with the red cover] (Tradewinds Records 103 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Opihi Momona Nui
The Old Way (Tradewinds Records 1128 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Old Mauna Loa - [the original album credits erroneously say this song is in Old Mauna Loa Tuning (# G11: D-G-D-E-A-E). Leonard did record this song in the Old Mauna Loa Tuning on Ke`ala’s Mele (Dancing Cat 38004). [format these lines]
Ke`ala’s Mele (Dancing Cat 38004)
New `Opihi Moemoe #3
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 (Dancing Cat 38046)
Slack Key Serenade – With Leonard playing in this tuning tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E, and Ozzie Kotani on second guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), also tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015) -[Slack Key guitarist Led Kaapana’s album]
Salomila/New `Opihi Moemoe – With Leonard in this tuning, and Led Kaapana on second guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D).
Elmer Kohala Lim (with The Lim Family):
Pua Olena – The Flower Song (Pumehana Records 4920)
Maunaloa
Punahele
Auntie Alice Namekelua:
Auntie Alice Namekelua (Hula Records 552 – out-of-print)
Ka Manu – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Ka`ahumanu – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Paniolo Slack-Key – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Waipi`o Paka`alana – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of E.
Hiram Olsen [with the Hiram Olsen Trio]:
Slack Key Special (MARC Records 510)
Simple Slack
Cyril Pahinui:
Malie (Panini Records 1011 – out-of-print)
2 Song Medley: Opihi Moe Moe Whee Ha Swing – With Cyril playing Whee Ha Swing in this tuning, capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A, and Peter Moon playing the first part of this medley, Opihi Moe Moe, in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), also capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Gabby Pahinui:
Two Slack Key Guitars [with Atta Isaacs] (Tradewinds Records 5524)
Ka Ua Noe (The Misty Rain) – A Slack Key duet with Gabby playing in this tuning, and Atta Isaacs playing in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D). [On the cassette tape issue of this album, this song is unfortunately sped up to sound in the key of A, and, on the first CD reissue of this album, this song was erroneously labeled as March Medley]. This track has also been reissued on the album reissued as THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 84000).
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Whee Ha Swing
Jim Kimo West:
Kimo Style (Westernmost Records WMR-30004-2)
Goin’ Upcountry
G5. D–G–D–F#–B–E
Sometimes called Waianae Tuning
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
G6. D–G–D–D–G–D
Called G Mauna Loa Tuning. Sometimes tuned up as high as the key of Ab or A. Also see tuning #A6 just after this section for the Leonard Kwan track recorded in this tuning, and tuned up to the key of A.
Sonny Chillingworth:
Sonny Solo, Volume 1 (Dancing Cat 38005)
Papakolea
Sonny Chillingworth (Lehua Records 2014 – out-of-print)
Key Kaholu
Papakolea
Stephen Kauhane:
`Auhea `Oe E Sanoe – Field Recordings of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar [Anthology Recording] (Topsoil Records 7046) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
`Auhea `Oe E Sanoe
Sanoe
Slack Key Guitarist Unknown (with The Kona Polynesians):
Authentic Music Of Kauai – Maui, Hawaii [Anthology Album] (Waikiki Records 112)
2 Song Medley: Papakolea/Key Mauna Loa
A6. E–A–E–E–A–E
Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of G. Also see tuning #G6 just above.
Leonard Kwan:
The Old Way (Tradewinds Records 1128 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Ki Ho`alu
G7. D–G–D–E–G–D
Called Maori Brown Eyes Tuning.
Sonny Chillingworth:
Sonny Solo, Volume 1 (Dancing Cat 38005)
Maori Brown Eyes
Leonard Kwan:
Slack Key [with the red cover] (Tradewinds Records 103 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Maori Brown Eyes
Ke`ala’s Mele (Dancing Cat 38004)
2 Song Medley: E Lili`u E/Ki Ho`alu [add kahako above I and O in “KI HO’ALU]
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Some New Things! Ki Ho`alu: He Mau Mea Hou! (Topsoil Records 9083)
Ka Hula a`o Keli
G8. D-G-D-G-G-D
Slack Key guitarist George Kahumoku, Jr. will record a song in this tuning, a tuning which he heard Auntie Mary Goodwin from the island of Molokai play in.
G9. C–G–D–G–G–D
Invented by Jim Kimo West and called Kimo’s Mahoe Tuning
Jim Kimo West:
Coconut Hat (Westernmost Records 30001)
Isa Lei – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Lanikele
Slack Key West (Westernmost Records WMR-30002-2)
Kohala No – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A.
Hana Hou Down – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Guitar Stories - Slack Key & Beyond West (Westernmost Records WMR-3006-2)
Daydream at Jumbo Rocks
G10. D–G–D–D–F#–C#
Called Alika’s Mauna Loa
Alika (Alex) Ngum:
My Yellow Ginger Lei – To be issued on a future recording on Dancing Cat Records.
G11. D–G–D–E–A–D
Called Old Mauna Loa Tuning
Leonard Kwan:
Ke`ala’s Mele (Dancing Cat 38004)
Old Mauna Loa
Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 1 [backing up The Kamaha`os Trio and Bob Pauhale Davis] [Anthology Album] (Tradewinds Records 5502 this song is reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Noho Paipai (Rocking Chair Hula)
G12. C–G–D–E–A–D
Called Ni`ihau Tuning.
Sonny Chillingworth:
Ka`aina O Hawai`i (Lehua Records 2040 – out-of-print)
Green Rose Hula – Another version of Green Rose Hula will be released on a future recording on Dancing Cat Records.
G12. D–G–D–G–B–E
Called “G6th Tuning.” Sometimes called Dropped G Tuning in Mainland America.
Keola Beamer:
Mauna Kea (White Mountain Journal) (Dancing Cat 38011)
For Sweetheart Grandma – Capoed up to the second fret to sound in the key of A.
Hi`ilawe
Soliloquy – Ka Leo O Loko (Dancing Cat 38012)
Ka Makani `Ula`ula
Mohala Hou - Music of the Hawaiian Renaissance (‘Ohe Records 96120)
Sunflower – Played in the key of D
Cindy Combs:
Sunny Rain (Dancing Cat 88697-09883-3)
Laid Back Slack
Namolokama
Mauna Loa
Pakala
Sunny Rain
Slack Key Lady (Dancing Cat 38041)
Hi`ilawe
Kalena Kai
Makani `Ula `Ula
Moonrise Music (Pule 2015)
The Hula Blues
Ka Eleweka
Ku’u Lei Awapuhi
Maori Brown Eyes
My Yellow Ginger Lei
Na Ka Pueo
Po Lani
Pekelo Cosma:
Going to Hana Maui (Hulali Records 001)
Pure Love – Capoed up one fret to sound in the key of Ab.
Hal Kinnaman:
Early Hawaiian Slack Key Melodies for Guitar [with instruction book] (Ho`ike Publications, P.O. Box 159, Kihei, HI 96753)
Hi`ilawe/Yellow Bird
G14. D-G-C-G-B-E
Called Kilawea Tuning. Can also be played solo effectively in the key of C.
Daniel Ho
The Voyage Home (Aire 81998)
Aloha Oe
Hawaii Aloha
Hawaii Ponoi – Played in the key of C.
Kanaka Wai Wai
Lahainaluna – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Pearly Shells – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Daniel Ho Creations DHC80007) [Anthology Recording]
Lia
Slack Tides
G15. D–G–D–E–B–D
Daniel Nicholas:
`Auhea `Oe E Sanoe – Field Recordings of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar [Anthology Recording] (Topsoil Records 7040) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Maori Brown Eyes
Ozzie Kotani:
Island View (issued on Ozzie Kotani’s own label – www.ozziekotani.com)
I Kela Apopo (Tomorrow)
Kona Hema – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Aloha Slack Key
Hawai’i Aloha
C1. C–G–E–G–C–E
Called Atta’s C Tuning. Can also be played solo effectively in the keys of F and G.
Keola Beamer:
Island Born (`Ohe Records 96118)
‘Olapa Ka Uila i Kane’ohe
Danny Carvalho:
Slack Key Journey-On My Way (Lava Rock Music LRM-001)
Song for Allie
Keali’i’s Mele
Somewhere (Lava Rock Music LRM-002)
Aia Hiki Mai
Holoholo
Kanaka Waiwai
Slack Key Kings (Rhythm & Roots Records RR-0310) – compilation album
Song for Allie
Atta Isaacs, Jr.:
He Mele Ku`u Pu`u Wai (backing up Leilani Sharpe Mendez) (IL 001)
Sweet Tubarose
Atta Isaacs, Sr.:
Atta (Tradewinds Records 1126 - reissued as THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000).
How’d You Do – Played in the key of F.
Hualalai – Played in the keys of C and F.
Ke Anuenue
Kohala March
Kokohi -Moani Ke Ala – Played in the keys of C and F.
Kolopa – Played in the keys of C and G.
Mele Li`i – Played in the key of F.
Two Slack Key Guitars [with Gabby Pahinui] (Tradewinds Records 1124)
I’m-A-Livin’ On-A-Easy – Played in the keys of C and G - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C-22: C-G-E-G-A-E)].
Ke Oni Nei Ka Huila (Luau Hula) - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays the lead guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C-22: C-G-E-G-A-E)].
Keali`i’s Mele - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C-11: C-G-E-G-B-E)] – this track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000)
Leaping Loli - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C-11: C-G-E-G-B-E)].
Manuela Boy – Played in the keys of C and G - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G-1: D-G-D-G-B-D)].
March Medley: Aia Hiki Mai/Haili Po Ika Lehua - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C-11: C-G-E-G-B-E)] - [incorrectly called Ku’u Hua Aloha on the Tradewinds Records CD].
Noho Au A Kupa – Played in the keys of D and C - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C-11: C-G-E-G-B-E)] – this track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000).
Po La`ila`i – Played in the keys of C, A and F - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C-11: C-G-E-G-B-E)].
Vaya Con Dios – Played in the keys of C and D - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C-11: C-G-E-G-B-E)].
Wahine U`i E - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C-22: C-G-E-G-A-E)].
Waltz Medley: Uluhua Waie Au/Pulupe/Sweet Lei Mamo – Played in the keys of G, F and C - [and Gabby Pahiniu plays second guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C-11: C-G-E-G-B-E)] – this track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 96000).
Slack Key & Steel Guitar Instrumentals, Volume 1 (formerly titled Kani Ka Pila! Volume 1) [with The Maile Serenaders (Eddie Kamae & The Sons of Hawai’i)] (Hula Records 517)
Alekoki – Played in the keys of C and F.
He’eia - Played in the keys of C and D.
Hi`ilawe
Hanohano Hanalei – Played in the keys of C and F.
Kona Hema
Kona Kai `Opua – Played in the key of F.
Moku Kai Kahi – Played in the keys of C and A minor.
Nani Ko`olau – Played in the keys of C and F. This track also appears on the anthology recording We Are Hawaii [backing up The Maile Serenaders] (Hula Records 21).
`Ula Noweo
‘Ulile E - Played in the keys of C and D
- Kona Kai `Opua and Nani Ko`olau also appear on Gabby Pahinui “Best Of” recording, Ka Makana a [kahuko over the “a”] Pahinui [The Gift of Pahinui] (Hula Records 578), erroneously attributed to Gabby Pahinui instead of Atta Isaacs, Sr.
Alvin Kaleolani Isaacs & Sons [with Alvin, Barney, and Norman Isaacs] (Lilinoe Records 101 – out-of-print)
Ke Kumuhana Nui
This Is Eddie Kamae & the Sons of Hawaii [with Eddie Kamae & The Sons of Hawaii] (Hula Records 513 – out-of-print)
Beautiful Ke Ala – Played in the keys of G and C.
Ko Hanu Ka`u E Li`a Nei
15 Hawaiian Favorites (backing up Poki San) – Also issued with the title Instrumental Hawaiian Favorites – Poki San & Friends (Poki Records 9002 – out-of-print).
2 Song Medley: Kaimana Hila/Waikapu Medley – Played in the keys of C and Eb
Rabbit Island Music Festival [backing up Gabby Pahinui] (Panini Records 1004)
Pua Maemae - With Gabby Pahinui on 12 string guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C–G–E–G–B–E).
Kaua’i Beauty – Atta plays the introduction and the ending on the nylon string guitar in the Standard Tuning (#C33: E-A-D-G-B-E), playing in the keys of A minor and C in the introduction. Gabby Pahunui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E).
The Gabby Pahinui HAwaiian Band – Volume 1 [backing up Gabby Pahinui] (Panini Records 1007; also issued on Warner Brothers Records 3023 – out-of-print)
Aloha Ka Manini - Gabby Pahinui also plays the 12-string guitar in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E).
Ka Moana Nui - Gabby Pahinui also plays the 12-string guitar in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E).
Moani Ke’ala - Gabby Pahinui also plays the 12-string guitar in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E).
Wahine U`i – Gabby Pahinui also plays the 12-string guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C–G–E–G–B–E).
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 2 (Panini Records 1008)
How’d Ya Do – Atta is featured on this song, playing in the keys of F and Bb
Po Mahina - With Gabby Pahinui playing the 12 string guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (C22: C-G-E-G-A-E)
Pua Kukui - With Gabby Pahinui playing the 12 string guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (C22: C-G-E-G-A-E)
Gabby (the “Brown Album) [backing up Gabby Pahinui] (Panini Records 1002)
Ka Moa`e – Atta plays the six string guitar solo, tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E), tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab.
Lei Ohu – Atta plays the six string guitar, tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B, and fingered in the key of E, and in the key of C for his instrumental solo, therefore sounding in the key on B, and in the key of C for his instrumental solo. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E), tuned down one half steps to sound in the key of B, and fingered in the keys of E and C, therefore sounding in the keys of Eb and B.
2 Song Medley: Hi`ilawe–1947/Luau Hula – on Luau Hula only, Atta plays the six string guitar tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab, fingering in the key of C, and the key of F for his instrumental solo, therefore sounding in the key of Ab, and in the key of Db for his instrumental solo. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C–G–E–G–B–E), tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab, and fingered in the keys of C and F, therefore sounding in the keys of Ab and Db.
The New Hawaiian Band [with the New Hawaiian Band] (Classic Collector Series Volume 7 12000 – reissued – originally issued on Trim Records 1975)
Green Rose Hula – Played in the keys of C and F. This track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 84000).
Haole Hula – Played in the key of G.
Kekaupu (Love Song) -this track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 84000).
2 Song Medley: Maikai Makani/Kui Au (aka Maika’i Ka Makani ‘O Kohala/ Moani Ke Ala)– Played in the keys of C and F. This track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 84000).
Hauoli [with the ensemble Hauoli] (Sounds of Hawaii 5026 – out-of-print)
Lahaina Luna - this track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 84000).
Akaka Falls – Played in the key of A, D, and C (Atta’s solo is in the key of D) - This track has also been reissued on the album THE LEGENDARY ATTA ISAACS– INNOVATIVE HAWAIIAN SLACK KEY GUITAR MASTER (Hana Ola Records HOCD 84000).
Kuhio Beach Girl (Tradewinds Records 1123) [backing up Linda Dela Cruz] - [these same tracks appear on “best of” album, Best of Linda (Tradewinds Records 2201)
Come My House – Played in the keys of C and D.
Do I Deserve It?
Mama
Marcella Wahine – Played in the key of D
Steel Guitar Hawaiian Style [backing up Jerry Byrd] (Lehua Records 7023)
Hilo March – Played in the keys of E, A, and D (Atta’s solo is in the key of D). This is a rare track featuring Slack Key guitar with acoustic steel guitar, played by Jerry Byrd.
How D’ya Do – Played in the keys of A and F (Atta’s solo is in the key of F)
Jesu Meke Kanaka Wa Wai
Kawohikukapulani – Played in the keys of F and A
Pa`au`au Waltz – Played in the key of G.
Melveen with the Best of Slack Key [backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Nanea Kou Maka – Played in the keys of F, C, F and G.
Pauoa Liko Ka Lehua
Charles K.L. Davis at Home [backing up Charles K. L. Davis] (Hula Records 532)
`Ekolu Mea Nui – Played in the key of Bb.
Malama ‘Ia Me ‘Oe – Played in the keys of G, Ab, A, and Bb – Atta’s introduction is in the key of G, and his solo is in the key of A.
Mahina Malamalama – Played in the keys of G and C.
Paoakalani – Played in the keys of A, and F
3 Ukuleles [backing up John Lukela] (Waikiki Records 125)
Slack Key Medley: Maleka’s Lullaby/Na Puanani O Hawai’i/Kuu Ipo Kuu Pua Aloha/Honolulu Town – Played in the keys of C, F and A.
Bill Kaiwa sings at Maunalahilahi ! [backing up Bill Kaiwa, with Eddie Kamae & The Sons of Hawaii] Hula Records 519
‘Ike ‘Ia I Pelekani- Played in the key of F – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Imu I Kawai O Hi’ilawe – Played in the key of F – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Kau’ionalani – Played in the key of D.
Koloa – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Ku Leo – Played in the key of F – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Kuwiliwili Iho Au – Played in the key of G – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Lili’ilehua I Mana – Played in the key of G – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F#.
Nu Maunalahillahi – Played in the key of F – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Puna Paia ‘A’ala – Played in the key of A
Sweet Moonlight– Played in the key of F – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Wahine Helela – Played in the keys of F and C.
Wainani Kanealii, Songs of the Pacific [backing up Wainani Kanealii] (Lehua Records 5021 – out-of-print)
Keanuenue
Kuhio Bay –Played in the Keys of F and C – tuned down one half step to sound in the keys of E and B.
Namolokama “Kani Uina”
Nani Kauai – Played in the key of G.
Nuku O Nuuanu – Played in the key of F.
Puu O Hulu –Played in the Keys of F and C – tuned down one half step to sound in the keys of E and B.
Marcella Kalua – Girl From Papakolea [backing up Marcella Kalua with Eddie Kamae & The Sons of Hawaii] (Mahalo Records 4012; also appears on Makaha Records 4012 – out-of-print)
Hali’ilua – Played in the keys of A and D - tuned down one half step to sound in the keys of Ab and C#.
Ha`upu– Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Kaho`olawe – Played in the key of F - tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Kahuli Aku – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Lantana E – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Lei Hinahina – Played in the key of F – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Lei Kiele – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Po Mahina – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Punalu’u – Played in the key of F - tuned down one half step to sound in the key of F.
U`i – Played in the keys of D and G – tuned down down one half step to sound in the keys of C# and F#.
The Waimanalo Keikis – Mele Kalilimaka [backing up Marcella K]
‘Ekolu Mea Nui –Played in the keys of A, C, and A again
Ozzie Kotani:
Paka Ua (Raindrops) (Daniel Ho Creations DHC 80016)
Na Pua Lei ‘Ilima
George Kuo:
Hawaiian Touch [duet album with Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38026)
Lahaina Luna – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on accoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Medley: Ahulili/Nani Wale Nahala – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on accoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Cyril Pahinui:
He’eia (Dancing Cat 88697-09882-2)
He’eia – (vocal version)
Hula Blues
Kamawai Lu’alani - (6 string version)
Kamawai Lu’alani - (12 string version)
Kila Kila O Moanalua/ Ina I Ka Wai
Makee ‘Ailana
Meleana E
Molokai Nui Ahina
Pauoakalani
Waikiki Hula
6 & 12 String Slack Key (Dancing Cat 38010)
Hanauma Bay
Hilo E
Ipo Lei Manu
Ka Makani Ka`ili Aloha
Lei `Ohu – Tuned down three half steps to the key of A.
Moani Ke `Ala
No Ke Ano Ahiahi
Panini Pua Kea
Night Moon (Po Mahina) (Dancing Cat 38030)
Hawaiian Cowboy – Slacked down to the key of A.
Hi`ilawe – Tuned down one half step to the key of B.
Kawaihae – Tuned down one half step to the key of B.
Kowali – Tuned down two half steps down to the key of Bb.
Mauna Loa – Tuned down about two or three half steps to a pitch between the keys of Bb and A.
Po Mahina – Tuned down three half steps down to the key of A.
Cyril (Pahinui Records 6068)
Nani Ka`ala
Maile Lau Li`ili`i
Po Mahina
Sun Down
Tropical Night
Ka Ho’oilina Mau (Poki Records SPCD 9062)
Hula O Makee
Ka Moa’e
Manu O’o
Makee Ailana –Played in the keys of A minor and C
Pu’uanahulu
Waikiki Hula
The Pahinui Bros. (Panini Records 2014; and in Mainland American on Private Music 82098)
Hanohano Ko Aka – Capoed up to the 2nd fret to sound in the key of D.
Kowali – Capoed up to the 2nd fret to sound in the key of D.
Mele of My Tutu E – Capoed up to the 2nd fret to sound in the key of D.
O Kamawailua Lani – Capoed up to the 2nd fret to sound in the key of D.
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Mele Kalikimaka
Four Hands Sweet & Hot [duet album with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38048)
E Nihi Ka Hele – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down three half steps to key of A, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A.
Hilo E/E Lili`u E – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to key of Bb, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up three half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Hilo Hanakahi – With Cyril playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the Mainland C Major Tuning (#C3: C–G–C–G–C–E).
Hula O Makee – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to key of Bb, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up three half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Ku`u Lei (My Wreath of Flowers) – With Cyril playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key of C.
Lei No Ka`iulani – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to key of Bb, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up three half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Wai Ulu – With Cyril playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the Mainland C Major Tuning (#C3: C–G–C–G–C–E).
Wai`alae – With Cyril playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the key of C.
Wayne Reis:
Hardly Working [with up the Kipapa Rush Band] (Kahanu Records 1004)
Haleakala
Kalohe Blues - With Wayne playing in this tuning, and George Kuo on second guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C-G-D-G-B-D).
Hilo Hula- With Wayne playing in this tuning, and George Kuo on second guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E).
Kaho`olawe - With Wayne playing in this tuning, capoed up two half steps to sound in the key of D, and George Kuo on second guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E), capoed up two half steps to sound in the key of D
Kaimuki Hula – With Wayne in this tuning, tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A, and fingering in the keys of C and Eb, therefore sounding in the keys of A and C - and George Kuo on second guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the keys of C and A.
Sanoe – With Wayne playing in this tuning in the keys of G and C, and George Kuo on second guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the keys of G and C.
Hawaiian Rush [with the Kipapa Rush Band] (Ho’olokahi Productions HPCD-202)
Do DAT Swing - Played in the keys of C and E
I Ka Po Me Ka Au – Played in the keys of C and G
Kaua I Ke Aloha - layed in the key of A
Ke Aloha Mau A Mau- Played in the keys of C, C#, and D
Ku’ulei “Awapuhi
Mano O’O
Mele O Kaho’olawe
Nanakuli - played in the key of G
Pauoa Like Ka Lehua
C2. G–C–E–G–C–E
Tuning #C2 is similar to #C1 with the two lowest bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch. Often tuned down to the key of Bb – See tuning #Bb2 below.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning).
Bb2. F–Bb–D–F–Bb–D
Can be tuned up as high as the key of C – tuning #Bb2 is the same tuning as #C2 with the whole guitar tuned down to the key of Bb.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C3. C–G–C–G–C–E
Called “Mainland” Open C Tuning, and called Open C Tuning in Mainland America.
John Keawe:
Ahuele (Homestead Productions 1002
Whale Talk
Waikoloa
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Life of the Land (Topsoil Records 7064) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Pu`u Wa`a Wa`a Slack Key Waltz
Backyard Slack Key & Autoharp (Topsoil Records 8128) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Lei Aloha Lei Makamae
Pu`uwa`awa`a
C4. F-G-C-G-C-E
Called Samoan C Major Tuning. Can also be played effectively in the key of F.
Keola Beamer: (Keola Beamer is experimenting with this tuning, playing in the key of F.)
Sonny Chillingworth: Minoi Minoi E - To be issued on a recording by Dancing Cat Records.
C5. C–G–D–G–B–D
Sometimes called Dropped C Tuning, Leonard’s C Tuning, C Wahine Tuning or Taro Patch C Tuning.
Haunani Apoliona:
Na Lei Hulu Makua, Na Wahine Hawai`i (Prism Records 4008)
Alu Like
Keola Beamer
Mauna Kea (White Mountain Journal) (Dancing Cat 38011)
Ulili E (The Wandering Tattler Bird)
Mohala Hou - Music of the Hawaiian Renaissance (‘Ohe Records 96120)
Guava Tree – Played in the key of G, and capoed up four frets to sound in the key of B. The second guitar is in Tuning #G11 (C-G-E-G-B-E), tuned down one half step to the key of B.
Danny Carvalho:
Slack Key Journey-On My Way (Lava Rock Music LRM-001)
Sanoe
Somewhere (Lava Rock Music LRM-002)
Aloha Ku’u Home Kane’ohe / E Mama E
Sonny Chillingworth:
Sonny Solo (Dancing Cat 38005)
Hi`ilawe
Hula Medley: Nani Wale Lihu’e /Wai`alae/Halona – Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Pua Lililehua
Waimea Cowboy (Lehua Records SLCD 2003)
Makee ‘Ailana
Sonny Chillingworth (Lehua Records 2014 – out-of-print)
Kananaka – Played in the keys of G and C.
Ka`aina `O Hawaii (Lehua Records 2040 – out-of-print)
Hi`ilawe
Nanea Ko`u Maka
Pulupe
Mele – Hula [Anthology Album] (Noelani Records 102)
Makee Ailana – With the Tropic Islanders (and Vicki I`i Rodrigues). Originally issued on 78-RPM around 1955 (Island Recording Studio 304–A).
Melveen with the Best of Slack Key [backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Wai O Ke Aniani
Hanohano Olinda [backing up Leinaala Haili] (Lehua Records 2029)
Ahi Wela
Rabbit Island Music Festival (Panini Records 1004) – [with the Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band - Gabby Pahinui on 12 string guitar
Makee ‘Ailana – With Sonny in this tuning, and on lead vocals. The 12 string guitar part is played by Gabby Pahinui in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E).
Pua Lililehua – With Sonny in this tuning, playing in the keys of C and G, and on lead vocals. The 12 string guitar part is played by Gabby Pahinui in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E), playing in the keys of C and G.
Cindy Combs:
Moonrise Music (Pule 2015)
Moonrise Music
Led Kaapana:
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015)
Highway to Hana
Mokupuni Nui – Capoed up four frets to sound in the key of E.
Led Live – Solo (Dancing Cat 38008)
I Kona – Capoed up to the second fret to sound in the key of D.
Na Ka Pueo – Capoed up to the third fret to sound in the key of Eb, and fingered in the keys of C and G, producing the sound of the keys of Eb and Ab because of the capo.
Silver Strings – Capoed up to the fifth fret to sound in the key of F.
Kiho’alu Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Rhythm And Roots Records IT-0307)
Medley: Ka Makani Ka’Ili Aloha/ Pua Tubarose
Waimea Lullaby
Grandmaster Slack Key Guitar (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-0309)
Fireman’s Hula
Green Carnation – Capoed up three frets to sound in the key of Eb.
He Nani Helena– Capoed up five frets to sound in the key of F.
Ka Wai Lehua ‘A’ala Ka Honua
Lemon Tree– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Manu O’o– Capoed up five frets to sound in the key of F.
Moko Puni Nui– Capoed up four frets to sound in the key of Eb.
Poli Pumehana– Capoed up five frets to sound in the key of F.
The Legend – (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-0318)
E Ku’u Sweet Lei Poina’ole - Capoed up five frets to sound in the key of F.
Hi’ilawe
Hula O Makee
Ikona
Kahao’olawe
Ko’ula - Capoed up four frets to sound in the key of E.
The Legend
Kika Kila Meets Ki Ho`alu (duet album with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar) (Dancing Cat 38031)
Kalama`ula – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the Mainland C Major Tuning (#C3: C–G–C–G–C–E).
Kolopa – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the key of C.
Ua Like No A Like – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the key of C.
In the Saddle [duet album with Bob Brozman mainly on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38051)
Aho Hakuloa – With Led playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up three half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Kukuna O Ka La – With Led playing in this tuning capoed up four frets to sound in the key of E, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of E.
Meleana E – With Led playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key of C.
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
C–H–R–I–S–T–M–A–S (The Meaning of Christmas)
Lima Wela! (Leahi Records 2001 – reissued on Shaka Records SCD 3003)
Nahenahe
Silver Strings
Hui Ohana – Kalapana to Waikiki (Lehua Records 7020)
Silver Strings – This track also appears on the recording Best of Hui Ohana, Volume 1 (Lehua Records 7042).
Waltz of the Wind (Dancing Cat 38016)
Mockin’ Bird Hill – Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of Eb
My Sweetheart
Yesterday
Force of Nature (duet album with 12-string rhythm guitarist Mike Kaawa – Mike plays all songs in the Standard Tuning [E-A-D-G-B-E] on the 12 string guitar accompanying Led Kaapana))
Kaulana O Kawaihae/ Kalena Kai
Koke’e - In this song the guitar is capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D
Pu’uanahulu - In this song the guitar is capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D
Ned Ka’apana:
His Own Man (Lehua 7059)
Hilo Hawai’i / Nahenahe – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A
Pana (Koa Records - KOA 105)
And I Love You So
Na Pua o Ke AKau
Pu’u o Hulu
George Kahumoku, Jr.:
Drenched By Music (Dancing Cat 38038)
Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai – Tuned down to three half steps to sound in the key of A, and fingering the keys of C and G, to sound in keys of A and E, because of the tuning of the guitar down.
U`i Lani – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Hawaiian Love Songs (Na Mele Ho`oniponipo Hawai`i) (Dancing Cat 38050)
E Maliu Mai – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Moku Hulu – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of D.
Paniolo Slack Key – Songs of the Hawaiian Cowboy (Kealia Farms Records FKRC 1017)
Milili’i – capoed up two half steps to sound in the key of D.
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2 (Dancing Cat 38046)
Ulu Niu Ke`eke`e (The Crooked Coconut Tree) – With George playing in this tuning tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A and playing a second guitar tuned to the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), which is capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of A.
Moses Kahumoku:
Hawaiian Slack Key (the Red Cassette) –Private issue
Puna - also a version of this song is to be issued on Dancing Cat Records
John Keawe
Mana’olana (Homestead Productions 1003)
Sea Tuning (both guitars are played in this tuning)
Aloha Kaikua’ana (Homestead Productions 1006)
Hi’ilawe –Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B
Ku’u Pua I Paoakalani
Maui Waltz/ Rainbow Connection – with a second guitar part in Tuning #G-1 (D-G-D-G-B-D), capoed up to the fifth fret to sound in the key of C.
Hal Kinnaman:
Early Hawaiian Slack Key Melodies for Guitar (Ho`ike Publications, P.O. Box 159, Kihei, HI 96753 – with instruction book – out-of-print)
Nahenahe
2 Song Medley: Silver Threads/Waimanalo Blues
Ozzie Kotani:
Kani Ki Ho`alu (Dancing Cat 38013)
Ku`u Lei Poina`ole
To Honor a Queen (E Ho`Ohiwahiwa I Ka Mo`i Wahine)-The Music of Lili’uokalani (Dancing Cat 38018)
Aloha `Oe
Pauahi `O Kalani
Penei No (Keolaokalani)
Ho’ihi (Respect) – Traditional Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (issued on Ozzie Kotani’s own label www.kotani.com)
Si Ti
Classical Slack (Pacific Sound Design Records 1001 – out-of-print)
Kimo Henderson Hula – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
George Kuo:
Aloha No Na Kupuna - Love of the Elders (Dancing Cat 38009)
Honesakala – With modulating transition 7th chords to sound in the keys of C and G.
2 Song Medley: Wai`alae/Koni Au I Ka Wai
O Ke Aumoe: Night of the Slack Key Guitar (Winter & Winter Records W&W 910 142-2)
Green Rose Hula
Hawaiian Touch [duet album with Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38026)
Aloha Nui Ku`uipo – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Beautiful Kahana – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Goodnight Mapauna – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Waltz Medley: Honolulu Eyes/Aloha No Au I Ko Maka/Wailana – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Medley: Lei Momi/Ili Puakea – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Pua Lilia – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Wehiwehi `Oe – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Winter Wonderland – With George playing in this tuning, and Barney Isaacs on acoustic steel guitar in A Minor 7th Tuning (C–E–G–A–C–E).
Hui Aloha [As part of the band Hui Aloha, with Dennis Kamakahi, Martin Pahinui and David Kamakahi] (Dancing Cat 38053)
I Ka Po Ame Ke Ao – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Kaimana Hila – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of D, and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Ke Kaua Laiki – With George playing in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of D, and Dennis Kamakahi in Open D Tuning (#D1: D–A–D–F#–A–D).
Lepe `Ula`ula – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Monterey Sunrise – With George playing in this tuning, and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E).
Palolo – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Panini Pua Kea – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E) tuned down to the key of Bb, and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning also tuned down to the key of Bb.
Pua Lantana – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E) tuned down to the key of Bb, and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning also tuned down to the key of Bb.
Pu`u Anahulu – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Sanoe – With George playing double neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Steal Away – With George playing in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of D, and Dennis Kamakahi in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C–G–E–G–A–E), also capoed up two frets to the key of D.
Ho’olahe (Listen) – [Backing up Martin Pahinui] (Dancing Cat 38054)
Ahulili - capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of D
Kauoha Mai - double-neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning, capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of D; and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E), capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Lei Hinahina - double-neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning; and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E) – and with Martin Pahinui on 6 string guitar in C Mauna Loa Tuning ( #C22: C-G-E-G-A-E)
Lei No Kaiulani - double-neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning; and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E)
Molokai Nui A Hina - double-neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning; and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E).
Panini Pua Kea - double-neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning; and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E).
Pua Lilia - double-neck guitar with the 6 string neck in this tuning; and the 12 string neck in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E) – played in the leys of F and C.
Hardly Working [with the Kipapa Rush Band] (Hula Records 576)
Kaimuki Hula – With George playing in this tuning in the keys of C and A, and Wayne Reis on second guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E), tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A, and fingering in the keys of C and Eb, therefore sounding in the keys of A and C.
Kalohe Blues– With George playing in this tuning, and Wayne Reis on second guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E).
In Kona [with George backing up Owana Salazar] (Pipeline Music 1001)
Ka Wai Lehua A`ala Ka Honua – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Kaua`i Beauty
Leonard Kwan:
Slack Key [with the red cover] (Tradewinds Records 103 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Kaneohe/Mama E (two song medley) – This track also appears on the recording Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106).
Nahenahe – On this album, the song Nahenahewiki is the same track as Nahenahe sped up to the key of Eb. This track also appears on the anthology album Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 1 (Tradewinds Records 102 and on the recording Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106).
Silver Threads Among the Gold
The Old Way (Tradewinds Records 1128 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Hula Blues
Kealoha
Palolo
Uheuhene
Ke `ala’s Mele (Dancing Cat 38004)
Kanaka `O Mose
Kananaka
Ke`ala’s Mele
Medley: Pretty Kehaulani/Ipo Hula
Medley: Puamana/Mi Nei
Yellow Bird
Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 1 [Anthology Recording] (Tradewinds Records 102
Nahenahe – This track also appears on the recording Slack Key [with the red cover] (Tradewinds Records 103) and on Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106), and it is reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Po Mahina – [backing up the Kamaha’os Trio] - Played in the keys of C and G. This track is reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
A Song to Hawaii – Backing up Bob Pauhale Davis.
Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106- these songs are reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN – SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Kaneohe/Mama E (two song medley)
Nahenahe – This track also appears on the recording Slack Key [with the red cover] (Tradewinds Records 103), and on the anthology recording Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 1 (Tradewinds Records 104), and it is reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Linda: Hawaii’s Canary [with Leonard backing up Linda Dela Cruz on electric guitar] (Tradewinds Records 118)
None Hula -This track also features Robert Kaaiai playing in Tuning # C8 (G-C-D-G-B-E)
Elmer Kohala Lim:
The Lim Family – Ku Kaulana (Pumehana Records 4925)
Onoipu
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Some New Things! Ki Ho`alu: He Mau Mea Hou! (Topsoil Records 9083)
`Elua Na Pua Ia Ke Ao
Backyard Slack Key & Autoharp (Topsoil Records 8128) – For ordering, contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Ilima’s Song
Harry Kunihi Mitchell (with Ruth Leighton):
45-RPM (Poki Records 7410) – sides A and B:
Kuu Pua (My Flower)
Mele O Kahoolawe (Song of Kahoolawe) – This track also appears on the anthology album Hano Hao (Ginger Records 3002).
Peter Moon:
The Music Makers [with the Peter Moon Band] (Kanikapila Records 1009)
Haleakala - Tuned up 1 half step to sound in the key of C#.
George Nainoa:
Stringing Along with You Hawaiian Style [Anthology Album] (Waikiki Records 108 – out-of-print)
Slack Key Medley
Gabby Pahinui:
Hawaiian Slack Key Volume 1 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 319)
Lei Nani – Played in the keys of C and G in this tuning.
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Kaua’i Beauty
Jim Kimo West:
Kimo Style (Westernmost Records WMR-30004-2)
‘Akaka Falls
C6. G–C–D–G–B–D
Tuning #C6 is similar to #C5 with the two lowest bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch. Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of Bb. See tuning #Bb6 below
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
Bb6. F–Bb–C–F–A–C
Can be tuned up as high as the key of C – tuning #Bb6 is the same tuning as #C6 with the whole guitar tuned down to the key of Bb.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C7. C–G–D–G–B–E
Sometimes called Keola’s C Tuning, and sometimes called Dropped C Tuning in Mainland America. Can also be played solo effectively in the key of G.
Chet Atkins:
Almost Alone (Columbia 67497)
Pu, Uana Hulu [Pu’uanahulu] (Remembering Gabby)– Played in the keys of C and F
Keola Beamer:
Moe Uhane Kika (Tales of the Dream Guitar) (Dancing Cat 38006)
He Punahele No `Oe
Holo Wa`apa
Ku`uipo Ku`u Lei
Lei Awapuhi
Medley: Bali Ha`i/Stranger in Paradise
Medley: Ke Ali`i Hulu Mamo/Kimo Hula – Ke Ali`i Hulu Mamo is played in the keys of A minor and C Major.
Sweet Singing Bamboo
Mauna Kea (White Mountain Journal) (Dancing Cat 38011)
Akaka Falls [on this album the song is titled Ka Wailele O `Akaka (`Akaka Falls)] – Played in the keys of F and C.
Imi Au Ia `Oe
Ke`ena Malu (Quiet Place)
Keiki Dream – With steel string guitar in this tuning in the key of C capoed up nine frets to sound in the key of A, and second guitar part on nylon string guitar also in this tuning capoed up two frets to sound in the key of A and played in the key of G.
Sase (Sassy) – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Sweet Lei Mamo
Wooden Boat (Dancing Cat 38024)
Don’t You Want To Be My Baby?
E Manono – Played in the key of of G minor.
Hemo Da Kopé (Coffee) Bean
No Ke Ano Ahiahi (In The Evening Time)
Shells
Where I Hold You
Wooden Boat
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Do You Hear What I Hear? – With acoustic guitars played in this tuning, and electric guitars played in a C–F–C–F–C–F tuning.
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
Away in a Manger
Kolonahe (From the Gentle Wind) (Dancing Cat 38047)
The Beauty of Mauna Kea
Ka Makani Ka`ili Aloha – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Kauhale O Kamapua`a – With one guitar in this tuning capoed up nine frets and played with key of C fingerings to sound in the key of A, and another guitar in this tuning capoed up two frets and played in G fingerings to sound in the key of A.
Maui Waltz – Played in the key of G.
Pele Trilogy
Soliloquy – Ka Leo O Loko (Dancing Cat 38012)
Kapalua Bay
The Myna Bird’s Dobro – Played in the key of G.
Papa’s Okolehau
Pauahi `O Kalani
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar in the Real Old Style (Music of Polynesia Records 22000)
Adios Kealoha
The Beauty of Mauna Kea
In The Real Old Style
Kaulana Na Pua – With nylon string guitar part played in this tuning, and steel string guitar part is in another C Wahine Tuning (#G5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Kawahikukapulani
Lovely Hula Hands
Pua Lili Lehua
Island Born (`Ohe Records 96118)
Makee ‘Ailana
Mohala Hou – Music of the Hawaiian Renaissance (‘Ohe Records 96120)
Home – Played in the key of G.
Kawika - Played in the keys of A minor and C Major.
Look Into Your Eyes
Pretty Girl – Capoed op two frets to sound in the key of D.
Pua ‘Ahihi [kahuko over the “A”]
Pupu [kahuko over the 2 “u’s”] Hinuhinu/ Kahuli [kahuko over the “a” ] Aku/ Ka Huelo
‘Opae – Played in the keys of C and G
Real Old Style
Malama (Ko Aloha (Keep Your Love) – (‘Ohe Records 8733)
He Punahele No ’Oe
Kaulana Na (Pua/ One Hanau
Waipi’o Paka’alana/Malama – Played in the key of A minor
Sweet Maui Moon (Paradise Productions 980)
Mango Tree – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Sweet Maui Moon – Capoed up four frets to sound in the key of E.
Wings of the Seabird - Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D
Hawaian Slack Key Guitar [Flexi-disc with the instruction book] (Oak Publications – out-of-print)
Holo Wa`apa
Pupu Hinu Hinu
Sase
The Beamer Brothers (Keola and Kapono Beamer)
This Is Our Island Home – We Are Her Sons (Music of Polynesia Records 29000)
Pupu Hinu Hinu (Medley) – [with the songs Pupu Hinu Hinu/ Kahli Aku/ Kahuelo ‘Opae] -With Keola playing in the keys of G and C in this tuning, and Kapono in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the keys of G and C.
Cindy Combs:
Sunny Rain (Dancing Cat 88697-09883-3)
Aloha Oe A Hui Hou
Days of My Youth
Kamelenahenaheokekai
Lullabye
Mauna Loa Lei
Aloha O’e A Hui Hou
Ua Noho Au A Kupa/ Wai’alae
Slack Key Lady (Dancing Cat 38041)
Kaulana Na Pua – Playing in the key of G.
Kipu
Ku`u Home O Kahalu`u
Sweet Leilani
Roselani Blossoms
Sweet Leilani
Sweet Memory
Wahine `Ilikea
Moonrise Music (Pule 2015)
Pa Nani Mai La Ko Iesu Kehea (Softly and Tenderly)
Pua Lilia
Tender Shephard/ Over the Rainbow
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
2 Song Medley: Iesu No Ke Kahuhipa/Kanaka Waiwai
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
Winter Wonderland
Led Kaapana:
Lima Wela! (Leahi Records 2001 – reissued on Shaka Records SCD 3003)
Kokee
Simply Slack Key (Paradise Records 970)
Alma Mater Medley: Pahoa and Pahala High Schools – With the main Slack Key played on acoustic guitar part in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
Come To Me Gently – With the main Slack Key part played on acoustic guitar in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
E Ku`u Morning Dew – With the main Slack Key part played on acoustic guitar in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
Kaua`i Waltz – With the main Slack Key part played on acoustic guitar in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
Ku`u Ipo I Ka He`e Pue One – With the main Slack Key part played on acoustic guitar in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
Maui Waltz – With the main Slack Key part played on acoustic guitar in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
Ua Noho Au Akupa – With the main Slack Key part played on acoustic guitar in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
You Are My Sunshine – With the main Slack Key part played on acoustic guitar in this tuning, capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E, and the second guitar part on electric guitar in Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E) in the key of E.
Hui Ohaha [with the group Hui Ohana] (Paradise Records 920)
Kawaihae – Capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E.
Manowaiopuna (Koula) – Capoed up five frets to sound in the key of E.
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015)
Tue Hey – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Ray Kane:
Wa`ahila (Dancing Cat 38002)
Hi`ilawe – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Nanakuli’s Raymond Kane (Tradewinds Records 1130 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 52000], with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE –OLD STYLE SLACK KEY – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Wa`alae/Halona Medley (this medley also starts with the song Nani Wale Lihu`e)
Master of the Slack Key Guitar (Rounder Records 6020)
Hi`ilawe – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Ahe Lau Makani
Chance ‘Em – tuned up a half step to sound in the key of C#
Kimo Hula
C8. G–C–D–G–B–E
Tuning #C8 is similar to #C7, except the two lowest bass strings are tuned up and reversed in pitch. Can also be played solo effectively in the key of G. Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of Bb. (See #Bb8 below.)
Robert Kaaiai:
Linda – Hawaii’s Canary [backing up Linda Dela Cruz] (Tradewinds Records 118 – out-of-print)
Moanalua
Nani Ka`ala - [This track also appears on the “best of ” album Best Of Linda [backing up Linda Dela Cruz] (Tradewinds Records 2201)
Pauoa Liko Ke Lehua - [This track also appears on the “best of ” album Best Of Linda [backing up Linda Dela Cruz] (Tradewinds Records 2201)
None Hula -This track also has Leonard Kwan playing in the C Wahine Tuning # C5 (C-G-D-G-B-D)
Bb8. F–Bb–C–F–A–D
Sometimes tuned up to the key of C. Also see tuning #C8, tuning #Bb8 is the same as #C8 with the whole guitar tuned down to the key of Bb. Can also be played solo effectively in the keys of F as well as Bb.
Keola Beamer:
Hawaian Slack Key Guitar [Flexi-disc with the instruction book] (Oak Publications – out-of-print)
Auntie Alice Namekelua’s Song
C9. C–F–D–G–B–E
Joanie Komatsu:
Ka Honu Slack Key – To be released on future recording on Dancing Cat Records.
C10. F–C–D–G–B–E
Tuning #C10 is similar to #C9, except the two lowest bass strings are tuned up and reversed in pitch.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
Bb10. Eb–Bb–C–F–A–D
Can be tuned up as high as the key of C. Tuning #Bb10 is the same tuning as #C10 with the whole guitar tuned down to the key of Bb.
C11. C–G–E–G–B–E
Sometimes called “Hi`ilawe Tuning” or “Gabby’s Hi`ilawe Tuning.”
Keola Beamer:
Soliloquy – Ka Leo O Loko (Dancing Cat 38012)
Li`i’s Song
Mohala Hou - Music of the Hawaiian Renaissance (‘Ohe Records 96120)
He’eia – Tuned down two half steps to the key of Bb
Guava Tree – Tuned down one half step to the key of B. The second guitar is in Tuning #G5 (C-G-D-G-B-D), played in the key of G, and capoed up four frets to sound in the key of B.
Atta Isaacs. Sr.
Alvin Kaleolani Isaacs & Sons [with Alvin, Barney, and Norman Isaacs] (Lilinoe Records 101 – out-of-print)
Na Tiipaani O Na Tamalii
George Kuo:
Aloha No Na Kupuna - Love of the Elders (Dancing Cat 38009)
Golf Swing
Nahenahe – Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Hula Records 576)
Old Hi`ilawe
O Ke Aumoe: Night of the Slack Key Guitar (Winter & Winter Records W&W 910 142-2)
Old Hi’ilawe – in this song the guitar is tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of B flat
Cyril Pahinui:
`Ia`Oe E Ka La, Helu `Ekahi, Volume 1 [backing up Palani Vaughan] (Nakahili Records 100)
Kauliluaikeanu Waltz
Gabby Pahinui:
Pure Gabby (Hula Records 567)
Hi`ilawe
Nanea Kou Maka I Ka Le`ale`a
These two tracks also appear on Gabby’s “Best Of” recording Ka Makana A Pahinui (The Gift of Pahinui) (Hula Records 578)]
Hi-ilawe – Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by 9 Slack Key guitarists - originally issued in 1946 on 78-RPM on Bell Records #505A – out-of-print) –Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Hi-ilawe (second version on this song on this reissued recording) - Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by 9 Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued in 1947 on 78-RPM (Aloha Records # AR-810– out-of-print).
The Best of Hawaiian Slack Key With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 340)
Hi`ilawe
Music of Old Hawaii – Sons of Hawaii (Hula Records 506, also issued on London International Records 91396)
He`eia – This track also appears on Gabby’s “Best Of” recording Ka Makana A Pahinui [The Gift of Pahinui] (Hula Records 578).
An Island Heritage [with the Sons of Hawaii] (Panini Records 1001)
Aloha Chant – Tuned down five half steps to sound in the key of G.
I Love Christmas – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab.
Mauna Alani – Tuned down five half steps to sound in the key of G.
Moe Kokolo– Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab.
Po’e Koa – Tuned down five half steps to sound in the key of G.
Gabby [the “Brown Album] (Panini Records 1002) – Gabby on 12 string guitar.
Hame Pila – Tuned down five half steps to sound in the key of G.
He`eia– Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Hi`ilawe–1972 – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Hula O Makee – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Ka Moa`e– Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab. Atta Isaacs plays the six string guitar solo in the C Major Tuning (#C1: C-G-E-G-C-E), tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab.
Keawaiki– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of B.
Leahi - Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E), tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.The introduction is played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), played in the key of C, and tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Lei Nani -– Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Lei Ohu – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Fingered in the keys of E and C, therefore sounding in the keys of Eb and B. Atta Isaacs plays the six string guitar solo in the C Major Tuning (#C1: C-G-E-G-C-E), tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Lihue – Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of C#. The introduction and the ending are played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), and the intro uses the chords D minor to G, resolving to C, capoed up one fret to sound in the key of C#.
2 Song Medley: Hi`ilawe–1947/ Luau Hula– Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab. Fingered in the keys of C and F, therefore sounding in the keys of Ab and C#. Atta Isaacs plays the six string guitar solo fingering in the key if F in theC Major Tuning (#C1: C-G-E-G-C-E), tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab, therefore sounding in the key of C# for his solo.
Wai O Ke Aniani
Leahi - The introduction is played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), played in the key of C, and tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Wahine Tining (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E), tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Lei No Ka`iulani – The introduction is played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), capoed up three frets to sound in the key of Bb. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (# C22: C-G-E-G-A-E), tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Rabbit Island Music Festival (Panini Records 1004) Gabby on 12 string guitar
Haleiwa Hula – With Atta Isaacs, Sr. on 6 string guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E).
Ho`oheno Keia No Beauty – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb, with Atta Isaacs on 6 string guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E), also tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Kaua`i Beauty – With Atta Isaacs playing the nylon string guitar on the introduction and the ending in the Standard Tuning (#C33: E-A-D-G-B-E), playing in the keys of A minor and C in the introduction
Makee `Ailana – With Sonny Chillingworth on lead vocals and a second guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D). [CHECK and cross reference Sonny]
Palolo – With Atta Isaacs on 6 string guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E).
Pua Mamane - With Atta Isaacs on 6 string guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E)
Ua Nani Kaua`i – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb, with Atta Isaacs, Sr. on 6 string guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E), also tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 1 (Panini Records 1007, also issued on Warner Brothers Records 3023 – out-of-print) - Gabby on 12 string guitar
Wahine U`i – With Atta Isaacs, Sr. on 6 string guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E).
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 2 (Panini Records 1008) – Gabby on 12 string guitar [check pitches and Atta—and cross reference Atta]
Po Mahina
Pua Kukui
2 Song Medley: Kilakila O Moanalua/Inu I Ka Wai – First part of medley tuned down to sound in the key of Bb. Second part of medley, played on 12 string guitar in tuning #C22: C–G–E–G–A–E) [check]
2 Song Medley: Kilakila ‘O Moanalua/ Inu I Ka Wai– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb. The second guitar part is played in tuning #C22: C–G–E–G–A–E, also tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
A Lei of Songs from Sam (Four Winds Recording 2001 – out-of-print) – Backing up Sam Kahalewai.
Beauty Hula
Hawaiian Slack Key Volume 2 –With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 320)
Alekoki – played in the keys of C, F, and G
Melveen With the Best of Slack Key [with Gabby backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Ka Manu – Played in the keys of Eb in this tuning, for the instrumental breaks, with the guitar capoed up three frets to sound in the key of Eb; and in the key of C in tuning #C20 (C-E-G-E-C-E), backing up the vocal verses.
Jim Kimo West
Slack Key West (Westernmost Records WMR-30002-2)
Beyond the Reef
C12. G–C–E–G–B–E
Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of Bb, also see tuning #Bb12. Tuning #C12 is similar to tuning #C11 with the two lowest bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
Frank Palani Kaina [aka Frank Palani] (with The Ho`opi`i Brothers):
Kauna (Poki Records 9030)
Wahine U’i (Slack Key Instrumental) – This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
-Also the late Auntie Alice Namakelua also played in this tuning, as documented in an interview for the Bishop Museum by Mary Pukui
Bb12. F–Bb–D–F–A–D
Sometimes tuned up as high as the key of C, also see tuning #C12. Tuning #Bb12 is the same as #C12 with the whole guitar tuned down to sound in the key of Bb.
Leonard Kwan:
The Old Way (Tradewinds Records 1128 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
New Opihi Moemoe
Hawaiian Chimes – 45-RPM ( Island Recording Studio 314 – out-of-print - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS) ) – This was Leonard Kwan’s first recording, from approximately 1957.
C13. C–G–E–G–B–D
Called Hanalei C Tuning.
Carlos Andrade (with Na Pali):
Na Pali - Pacific Tunings (Awapuhi Records 101)
When the Rain is Over
C14. G–C–E–G–B–D
Called Led’s New C Wahine Tuning. Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of Bb (See #Bb14). Tuning #C14 is similar to #C13 with the lowest two bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
Led Kaapana:
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015)
Koke`e – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A (repeated in the tuning just below for reference).
Bb14. F–Bb–D–F–A–C
Sometimes tuned up as high as the key of C, also see tuning #C14. Tuning #Bb14 is the same as #C14 with the whole guitar tuned down to sound in the key of Bb. See Tuning #C14 just above for the Led Kaapana track in this tuning.
Led Kaapana:
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015)
Koke`e – Tuned down one half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
In the Saddle [Duet with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38051)
Bob & Led’s Modern Slack Key – With Led in this tuning tuned down to the key of G, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned down three half steps to the key of G.
Kiho’alu-HAwaiian Slack Key Guitar (Rhythm & Roots Records IT-0307)
Wood & Steel Slack Key
C15. C–G–C–G–B–D
Called Ni`ihau C Wahine Tuning
Wayne Jacintho:
He Wai Mau (Julie’s Song) – to be released
C16. F–G–C–G–B–D
Called Samoan C Wahine tuning
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C17. D–G–C–G–B–D
Can be played in the key of G as well as C
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C18. G–C–C–G–B–E
Called Wela Kahau Tuning
Malaki Kanahele:
Wela Kahau – To be issued on recording on Dancing Cat Records. Also featured in Eddie Kamae’s film about Slack Key guitar, The Hawaiian Way.
C19. C–G–C–G–B–E
Tuning #C19 is similar to tuning #C18 with the two lowest bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C20. C–G–E–G–A–B
Invented by Walter Carvalho
Walter Calvalho:
Makalapua – to be released
C21. G–C–C–G–A–B
Tuning #C21 is similar to tuning #C20 with the two lowest bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C22. C–G–E–G–A–E
Called C Mauna Loa Tuning. Sometimes called Gabby’s C Tuning. Also called Ki Melia Tuning on the island of Ni`ihau.
Carlos Andrade (with Na Pali):
Na Pali – Pacific Tunings (Awapuhi Records 101)
Hawaii Loa
Hokulea Hula
Na Pali (Awapuhi Records AWA 8538)
Kamali’i
Navigator’s Lullaby
Keola Beamer:
Wooden Boat (Dancing Cat 38024)
Kealia
Moe`uhane Kika (Tales of the Dream Guitar) (Dancing Cat 38006)
Alekoki (mistitled Alekoki on the recording – it is actually the song Haole Hula, by the late R. Alex Anderson)
Island Born (`Ohe Records 96118)
Old Man Pueo
Danny Carvalho:
Somewhere (Lava Rock Music LRM-002)
Kaulana Kawaihae
Pat Cockett (with Na Pali):
Na Pali (Awapuhi Records AWA 8538)
Kealia
Dennis Kamakahi:
Pua`ena (Glow Brightly) (Dancing Cat 38036)
Ahe Lau Makani – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Ahulili
Hilo Rag
Ipo Lei Manu – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Kapela
Kaua`i O Mano
Koke`e
Na Kupa O Wai`anae
Ninipo Ho`onipo
Waikiki Hula – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab.
`Ohana (Family) (Dancing Cat 38043)
Aloha Ko`olau – Tuned down four half steps to the key of Ab.
Around the World
E Pupukanioe – Tuned down four half steps to the key of Ab.
He`eia – Tuned down two half steps to the key of Bb.
`Ike la Ladana (Queen’s Jubilee) – Both vocal and instrumental versions tuned down four half steps to the key of Ab.
Ka Hanu O Ka Hanakeoki – Tuned down two half steps to the key of Bb.
Moanalua – Tuned down two half steps to the key of Bb.
`Ohana Slack Key – Tuned down two half steps to the key of Bb.
`Ulili E
The Gift of Music – From Father to Son (Dennis Kamakahi Productions DKPCD 70012)
Hanohano Hanalei
Ha’u Ha’u E
Huelo
Ia ‘Oe E Ka La
Ka Loke “ula Lahilahi
Ka Manu – (also fratures Dennis beautiful overdubbed harmony vocals, a sixth interval below the melody, rather than the normally sung third interval above).
Ka Wai Nakolokolo
Kaho’olawe
Ku’u Lei Papahi
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Christmas Memories
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
My Hawaiian Christmas – Tuned down one half step to the key of B.
Eddie Kamae Presents the Sons of Hawaii Ho`omau [backing up The Sons of Hawaii] (Hawaii Sons 5005)
Ho`omau – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Eddie Kamae Presents Sons of Hawaii Grassroots Music (Hawaii Sons Records 6006)
Kaua`i O Mano – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Hui Aloha [as part of the band Hui Aloha, with George Kuo, Martin Pahinui and David Kamakahi] (Dancing Cat 38053)
I Ka Po Ame Ke Ao – With Dennis in this tuning, and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Kaimana Hila – With Dennis in this tuning, capoed up two frets to the key of D, and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning capoed up to the key of D, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) capoed up to the key of D.
Lepe `Ula`ula – With Dennis in this tuning, and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Monterey Sunrise – With Dennis in this tuning, and George Kuo in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Palolo – With Dennis in this tuning, and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Panini Pua Kea – With Dennis in this tuning, tuned down to the key of Bb, and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) tuned down to the key of Bb.
Pua Lantana – With Dennis in this tuning, tuned down to the key of Bb and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) tuned down to the key of Bb.
Pu`u Anahulu – With Dennis in this tuning, and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Sanoe – With Dennis in this tuning, and George Kuo on double neck guitar with the 12 string neck also in this tuning, and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Steal Away – With Dennis in this tuning, capoed up two frets to the key of D, and George Kuo in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) capoed up two frets to the key of D.
Ia `Oe E Ka La, Helu `Ekahi – Volume One [backing up Palani Vaughan] (Nakahili Records 100)
Ka`a Ahi Kahului (Train Song) – With Dennis playing the first instrumental break in this tuning, and Cyril Pahinui playing the second instrumental break on second Slack Key guitar in tuning #D5 (D–A–D–F#–B–E), tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C.
Ozzie Kotani:
Kani Ki Ho`alu (Dancing Cat 38013)
Ki Ho`alu
Ku`u Kika Kahiko (My Old Guitar)
Ho’ihi (Respect) – Traditional Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (issued on Ozzie Kotani’s own label www.ozziekotani.com)
Ho’iha – on this song the guitar is tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb
Paka Ua (Raindrops) (Daniel Ho Creations DHC 80016)
Ke Anuenue
George Kuo:
Aloha No Na Kupuna - Love of the Elders (Dancing Cat 38009)
Aloha Chant
He Inoa No Kaiulani
Manu Kapalulu
Mauna Loa Blues
Nahenahe – Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (Hula Records 576)
Mauna Loa Blues
O Ke Aumoe: Night of the Slack Key Guitar (Winter & Winter Records W&W 910 142-2)
Ka Ipo Lei Manu
Hardly Working [with the Kipapa Rush Band] (Kahanu Records 1004)
Hilo Hula - With George playing in this tuning, and Wayne Reis on second guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E).
Kaho`olawe – With George playing in this tuning, capoed up to the second fret to sound in the key of D, and Wayne Reis on second guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E), capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Hui Aloha [As part of the band Hui Aloha, with Dennis Kamakahi, Martin Pahinui and David Kamakahi] (Dancing Cat Records 38053)
Pu`u Anahulu – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D), and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning.
Palolo – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D), and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning.
Lepe `Ula`ula – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D), and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning.
Pua Lantana – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) also tuned down to the key of Bb, and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb.
Kaimana Hila – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of D and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) also capoed up two frets to the key of D, and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning capoed up two frets to the key of D.
I Ka Po Ame Ke Ao – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D), and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning.
Panini Pua Kea – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) also tuned down to the key of Bb, and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning tuned down to the key of Bb.
Sanoe – With George on double neck guitar with 12 string neck in this tuning and 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D), and Dennis Kamakahi also in this tuning.
Ho’olahe (Listen) – [Backing up Martin Pahinui] (Dancing Cat 38054)
Kanaka Waiwai (Iesü Me Ke Kanaka Waiwai)
Kauoha Mai - double-neck guitar with the 12 string neck in this tuning, capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of D; and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C-G-D-G-B-D), capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Lei Hinahina - double-neck guitar with the 12 string neck in this tuning; and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C-G-D-G-B-D) – and with Martin Pahinui on 6 string guitar in this tuning.
Lei No Kaiulani - double-neck guitar with the 12 string neck in this tuning, capoed up 2 frets to sound in the key of D; and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C-G-D-G-B-D), capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Panini Pua Kea - double-neck guitar with the 12 string neck in this tuning; and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C-G-D-G-B-D).
Pua Lilia - double-neck guitar with the 12 string neck in this tuning; and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C-G-D-G-B-D) – played in the keys of F and C.
Waikapu - double-neck guitar with the 12 string neck in this tuning; and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C-G-D-G-B-D) – and with Martin Pahinui on 6 string guitar in this tuning.
Postcards From Hawai`i [backing up Keith and Carmen Haugen] (Kokua Records 8113)
Ke`ala Punahele – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of D.
Cyril Pahinui:
He’eia (Dancing Cat 88697-09882-2)
He’eia – (instrumental version)
6 & 12 String Slack Key (Dancing Cat 38010)
2 Song Medley: Noenoe/Remember, Be Sure and Be There
Night Moon (Po Mahina) (Dancing Cat 38030)
Pu`u Anahulu – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Ka Ho’oilina Mau (Poki Records SPCD 9062)
Ahulili - with Gabby Pahinui also in this same tuning – Cyril plays to the 1958 Gabby Pahunui track of this song from the album Best of Hawaiian Slack Key – With Gabby Pahinui (Hula Records 340)
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 1 (Panini Records 1007, also issued on Warner Brothers Records 3023 –the Warner Brothers issue is out-of-print) – [backing up Gabby Pahinui – Gabby on 12 string guitar]
Pu`uanahulu – With Cyril featured playing the introduction, the accompaniment, and the instrumental solo in this tuning. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in this same tuning.
Gabby Pahinui:
Pure Gabby (Hula Records 567)
I Ka Po Me Ke Ao – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Ki Ho`alu
Key Kohalu – Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar – Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by 9 Slack Key guitarists – Tuned down one half steps to sound in the key of B. Originally issued on 78-RPM (Bell Records #509B– out-of-print).
Gabby Pahinui With the Sons Of Hawaii (Hula Records 503)
Lei No Kai Ulani
Uli E – This track also appears on the anthology recording Hawaiian Stars (Hula Records 512 – out-of-print).
In Hawaii the Story Starts [Anthology Recording] (Waikiki Records 334)
2 Song Medley: Meleana E/Keawaiki – This track also appears on the recording Duke Kahanamoku’s Favorites (Waikiki Records 124 – out-of-print).
Best of Hawaiian Slack Key – With Gabby Pahinui (Hula Records 340)
`Ahulili
I Ka Po Meke Ao – This track also appears on the album Hawaiian Slack Key Volume 1 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 319)
Hawaiian Slack Key Volume 1 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 319)
Heaaloha No Honolulu - Played in the keys of C and F.
I Ka Po Meke Ao– This track also appears on the album Best of Hawaiian Slack Key – With Gabby Pahinui (Hula Records 340)
Hawaiian Slack Key Volume 2 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 320)
3 Song Medley: Moana Chimes/Kaulana Na Pua/Kuwili – The second part of this medley, Kaulana Na Pua, is played in the key of F in this tuning. The medley actually starts out with Gabby playing an uncredited version of Ki Ho`alu.
Music of Old Hawaii [with The Sons of Hawaii] (Hula Records 506)
Pauoa Liko Ka Lehua
Slack Key & Steel Guitar Instrumentals, Volume 2 (formerly titled Kani Ka Pila! Volume 2) [with the Maile Serenaders] (Hula Records 531)
Kahuli Aku
An Island Heritage [with the Sons of Hawaii] (Panini Records 1001)
Hanohano Hawaii – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Huelo – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Ka Lae O Ka ‘Ena – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Kanaka Waiwai – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A
Ku`u Pete – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Manu Kapalulu – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab.
No Ke Ano Ahi Ahi – Tuned down three half steps to sound in the key of A.
Wai Ulu – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Waikiki Hula – Tuned down four half steps to sound in the key of Ab.
Gabby (the “Brown Album) (Panini Records 1002) – Gabby on 12 string guitar
Ka`ahumanu – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Ka Makani Ka`ili Aloha – Tuned down one half steps to sound in the key of B.
Leahi – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Bla Pahinui plays the nylon string guitar in the Standard Tuning (#C29: E-A-D-G-B-E), plauing in the key of C, tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Lei No Ka`iulani – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb. The introduction is played on nylon string guitar by Bla Pahinui in the G Major Tuning (# G1: D-G-D-G-B-D), capoed up three frets to sound in the key of Bb.
Royal Hawaiian Hotel – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Wai O Ke Aniani – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Rabbit Island Music Festival (Panini Records 1004) – Gabby on 12 string guitar
He Nohea `Oe I Ku`u Maka – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Ka Loke O Maui
Makee Ailana – With the lead vocals and a second guitar part by Sonny Chillingworth in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D).
Pua Lililehua – Playing in the keys of C and G. With the lead vocals and a second guitar part by Sonny Chillingworth in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the keys of C and G.
Wai`alae
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 1 (Panini Records 1007) – Gabby on 12 string guitar
Aloha Ka Manini - With the lead guitar played by Atta Isaacs in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E-G-C-E).
E Nihi Ka Hele
Ipo Lei Manu
Ka Moana Nui - With the lead guitar played by Atta Isaacs in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E-G-C-E).
Ku`u Pua Lei Mokihana
Moani Ke`ala - With the lead guitar played by Atta Isaacs in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E-G-C-E).
Pu`uanahulu – With Cyril Pahinui playing the introduction, the accompaniment, and the instrumental solo in this tuning.
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 2 (Panini Records 1008) – Gabby on 12 string guitar
Two Song Medley: Kilakila ‘O Moanalua/ Inu I Ka Wai– Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb. The second guitar part is played in tuning (#C11: C–G–E–G–B–E, also tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.)
No Ke Ano Ahi Ahi – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Po Mahina - With Atta Isaacs playing the lead guitar in the C Major Tuning (C1: C-G-E-G-C-E)
Pua Kukui - With Atta Isaacs playing the lead guitar in the C Major Tuning (C1: C-G-E-G-C-E)
Pua Tubarose – On this song Gabby’s guitar is capoed up two half steps to sound in the key of D. Bla Pahinui plays in the Dropped D Tuning (#D7: D-A-D-F# -B-E).
Pu’uwa’awa’a – Bla Pahinui plays the introduction on the nylog string guitar in the Standard Tuning, fingering in the keys of G and Eb, and is capoed up eight frets, therefore sounding in the keys of E and C.
Waikiki Hula – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Two Slack Key Guitars [with Atta Isaacs] (Tradewinds Records 1124)
Ke Oni Nei Ka Huila (or Luau Hula) – and Atta Isaacs plays second guitar in tuning #C1 (C-G-E-G-C-E)
I’m-A-Livin’ On-A-Easy – Played in the keys of C and G - and Atta Isaacs plays second guitar in the C Major Tuning (#C-1: C-G-E-G-C-E)]
Melveen With the Best of Slack Key [with Gabby backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Ka ‘I’iwi Polena – On the last part of this song, the guitar is capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
Ka Manu – Played in the keys of C in this tuning, backing up the vocal verses; and the instrumental breaks in the key of Eb in tuning #C11 (C-E-G-E-B-E) , with the guitar capoed up three frets to sound in the key of Eb.
3 Ukuleles [backing up John Lukela] (Waikiki Records 125)
Ka Loa Loa La
Three Ukuleles
Martin Pahinui
Ho’olahe (Listen) – (Dancing Cat 38054)
Lei Hinahina – and with George Kuo on double-neck guitar with the 12 string neck in this tuning; and the 6 string neck in C Wahine Tuning (#C5:C-G-D-G-B-D)
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Kapuhulu Hula
C23. G–C–E–G–A–E
Called Bb Mauna Loa Tuning. Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of Bb, also see tuning #Bb21. Tuning #C21 is similar to tuning #C20 with the lowest two bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
Led Kaapana:
Led Live – Solo (Dancing Cat 38008)
E Lili`u E – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb
Salomila – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015)
Punahoa Special
The Legend – (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-0318)
Punahoa slack – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Lima Wela! (Leahi Records 2001 – reissued on Shaka Records SCD 3003)
E Lili’u E
Hookena – With Led playing one guitar in this tuning and second guitar in the Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E), in the key of C.
Pau Pilikia
Punahoa Special
Rings on Your Finger – With Led playing one guitar in this tuning and second guitar in the Standard Tuning (#C30: E–A–D–G–B–E), in the key of C.
Hui Ohana Ono [with the group Hui Ohana] (Poki Records 9010)
Punahoa Special
Hui Ohana – Young Hawaii Plays Old Hawaii [with the group Hui Ohana] (Lehua Records 7006)
E Liliu E
Salomila
Melveen With the Best of Slack Key [with Led backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Na Pua Ka Lima
Elmer Kohala Lim (with the Lim Family):
Sounds of Kohala (Pumehana Records 4911)
Punahoa Special
Fred Punahoa (Fred Punahoa is Ledward Kaapana’s late uncle):
Waimea Music Festival [anthology album] (Panini Records 1006)
Slack Key Instrumental #1 (Actual title is Punahoa Special)
Bb23. F–Bb–D–F–G–D
Sometimes tuned up as high as the key of C, also see tuning #C21. Tuning #Bb19 is the same as #C21 with the whole guitar tuned down to the key of Bb.
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Backyard Slack Key & Autoharp (Topsoil Records 8128) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Ka Makani Ka`ili Aloha
C24. C–G–C–G–A–E
Sometimes called Ni`ihau C Mauna Loa Tuning. Can also be played solo effectively in the keys of G as well as C.
Leonard Kwan:
Slack Key [with the red cover] (Tradewinds Records 103 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title LEONARD KWAN –SLACK KEY MASTER – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS)
Pau Pilikia – Also issued on 45-RPM (Tradewinds Records 206 – out-of-print).
Paul Togioka:
Ki ho’alu Inn (Rhythm & Roots Records RR-0306)
Salomila
Hokulei
Kaua’i Beauty
C25. F–G–C–G–A–E
Called Samoan C Mauna Loa Tuning.
Sonny Chillingworth:
Sonny Solo, Volume 1 (Dancing Cat 38005)
Let Me Hear You Whisper – Tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of D.
C26. C–G–D–G–A–D
Keola Beamer:
Wooden Boat (Dancing Cat 38024)
Dancers in the Land of Po – Played in the keys of G and C.
Wayne Jacintho:
Humboldt Slack Key – To be issued on recording on Dancing Cat Records.
Jim Kimo West:
Kimo Style (Westernmost Records WMR-30004-2)
Ke Kai Malie
Ku’u Lei Awapuhi
Lullaby for My Tutu
Na Hali’a Aloha
Strawberry Guavas
Guitar Stories – Slack Key & Beyond (Westernmost Records WMR-3006-2)
‘Iolani Palace Waltz
C27. G–C–D–G–A–D
Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of Bb, also see tuning #Bb27. Tuning #C27 is similar to tuning #C26 with the lowest two bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C28. C–G–C–G–A–D
Keola Beamer:
Moe Uhane Kika (Dancing Cat 38006)
E Ku`u Morning Dew
C29. C–G–C–G–D–E
Called Ka Honu (Turtle) Tuning.
Keola Beamer:
Moe Uhane Kika (Tales Of Of The Dream Guitar) (Dancing Cat 38006)
Winter Tide
C30. C-G-E-G-D-E
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning, although Slack Key guitarist Cindy Combs may record something in it.)
C31. G-C-E-G-D-E
Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of Bb, also see tuning #Bb30. Tuning #C30 is similar to tuning #C27 with the lowest two bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
C32. C-G-D-F-B-E
Cindy Combs:
Sunny Rain (Dancing Cat 88697-09883-3)
Pu’olo Point
C33. E-A-D–G–B–E (SEE LOWER ON THIS CHART BELOW THE KEY OF A TUNINGS FOR THE SONGS LISTED IN VARIOUS KEYS IN THE STANDARD TUNING)
Called Standard Tuning, Standard Spanish Tuning, or Double Bass Tuning.
The key of C is the key most often used in this tuning for playing Slack Key guitar. Can also be used in the keys of D, G, A, E and F.
D1. D–A–D–F#–A–D
Called Open D Tuning, and sometimes Open E Tuning. Also called Vestapol Tuning in Mainland America.
Keola Beamer:
Sweet Maui Moon (Paradise Productions 980)
The Wings of a Seabird
The Beamer Brothers (Keola and Kapono):
This Is Our Island Home, We Are Her Sons (Music of Polynesia Records 29000)
Fantasy Was You For Me
This is Our Island Home – Tuned up one half step to sound in the key of Eb. This song also appears on the album The Best of Keola & Kapono Beamer (Music of Polynesia 49000).
Honolulu City Lights (Paradise Records 808)
Kaliponi Slack Key – Keola plays in this tuning in the keys of D and G, and Kapono plays second guitar in tuning #D6 (D–A–D–F#–B–D), playing in the keys of D and G.
Pauoa Liko Ka Lehua – Played by Keola and Kapono, both in this tuning, playing in the keys of D and G.
Sea Breeze (Puamana) – Keola plays in this tuning, and Kapono plays in tuning #D6 (D–A–D–F#–B–D).
Danny Carvalho:
Somewhere (Lava Rock Music LRM-002)
Somewhere
Ry Cooder:
Chicken Skin Music (Warner Brothers/Reprise 2254)
2 Song Medley: Always Lift Him Up/Kanaka Wai Wai
Bop Till You Drop (Warner Brothers 3358)
Go Home Girl
Moses Kahumoku:
Hawaiian Slack Key (the Red Cassette) –Private issue
Aina Hou – also a version is to be issued on recording on Dancing Cat Records.
Hi`i Poi I Ka `Aina Aloha (Cherish the Beloved Land) [backing up Aunty Edith Kanaka`ole] (Hula Records HS-568)
He Punahele Na Ke Kupuna
The Kahumoku Brothers (George and Moses): George plays 12 string guitar and Moses plays nylon string guitar.
Kai Malino – The Peaceful Sea (Hula Records 577)
Kai Malino – With the guitars tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Moonlight Flight
Dennis Kamakahi:
Eddie Kamae Presents the Sons of Hawaii – Pua Hone (Honey Flower) [with The Sons of Hawaii] (Hawaii Sons Records 1003 [or 3003])
Hualalai
Christmas Time With Eddie Kamae and the Sons of Hawaii [with The Sons of Hawaii] (Hula Records 4004)
Ho`onani I Ka Hale
Hui Aloha [as part of the band Huia Aloha, with George Kuo, Martin Pahinui and David Kamakahi] (Dancing Cat 38053)
Ke Kaua Laiki – With Dennis playing in this tuning, and George Kuo on second Slack Key guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C5: C–G–D–G–B–D) capoed up two frets to the key of D.
John Keawe:
Ahuele (Homestead Productions 1002)
Ahuele
Aloha Kaikua’ana (Homestead Productions 1006)
Kamehameha Rock – tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C# - with a second guitar part played in Tuning #G-1 (D-G-D-G-B-D), played in the key of D (with the guitar tuned down one half step, therefore sounding in C# when this part is played).
Mo’opunas
Heartfelt (Homestead Productions 1005)
Kalaupapa’s Prayer – (both guitars are played in this tuning
Peter Moon (with Sunday Manoa):
The Sunday Monoa 3 (Panini Records 1005)
2 Song Medley: Hilo Hanakahi/Hilo E
Ua Like No A Like
Cyril Pahinui:
Night Moon (Po Mahina) (Dancing Cat 38030)
`Opihi Moemoe
Four Hands Sweet and Hot [duet album with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38048)
Coquette – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Wahine Tuning (#G4: D–G–D–F#–B–D), playing in the key of C.
E Mama Ea – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key of C.
Hawaiian Cowboy – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key of C.
Inikiniki Malie (Gentle Pinches of the Wind) – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and Bob Brozman playing acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key C.
Kela Mea Whiffa/Hilo March – With Cyril playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman playing acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of A.
LBC Slack Key – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key C.
Lei `Ohu – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and Bob Brozman playing acoustic steel guitar in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key of C.
Lihu`e – With Cyril playing in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), tuned up five half steps to sound in the key of C.
Ka Ho’oilina Mau (Poki Records SPCD 9062)
Kaulana Kawaikae
Kela Mae Whiffa
Ku’u Lei Momi (Ka’ena)
Ku’u Pua Lei Mokihana
Miloli’i
Waipaho’e
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas [anthology album] (Dancing Cat 38044)
Auld Lang Syne – With Cyril playing in this tuning, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–G), playing in the key of D.
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Endless Summer Slack Key
D2. C–A–D–F#–A–D
Called D7th Tuning
Keola Beamer:
Kolonahe (From the Gentle Wind) (Dancing Cat 38047)
Blue Water Dolphin
D3. D–A–E–F#–A–D
Invented by Jim Kimo West and called Kimo’s Anuenue Tuning
Jim Kimo West:
Kimu Style (Westernmost Records WMR-30004-2)
Itoshi No Kimi Ni
Coconut Hat (Westernmost Records 30001)
Cereus
Kai Moku – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Slack Key West (Westernmost Records WMR-30002-2)
Espaniolo
Slack for Tappy.
D4. D–A–D–F#–A–C#
Called D Wahine Tuning
Keola Beamer:
Mauna Kea (White Mountain Journal) (Dancing Cat Records 38011)
Barefoot on the Range
Kaula `Ili
Tommy Blaisdell:
The Rocking Chair Hula – Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued on 45-RPM (49th State Records #193B – This track has a second guitar in the G Major “Taro Patch” Tuning, capoed up seven frets to sound in the key of D.
George Keoki Davis:
Wahine Slack Key – Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued on 78-RPM (Bell Records #502B – out-of-print).
Haunani Kahalewai:
Haunani, the Voice of Hawaii (Decca Records 74561)
Hi`ilawe Hula
Hi`ilawe– [under the name Haunani] - 78-RPM (49th State Records #181) and 33-RPM EP (49th State Records EP–4).
Webley Edwards Presents Hawaiian Strings, Volume III [playing with the Hawaii Calls band] (Capitol Records 1152 – out-of-print)
Hi`ilawe (this track also features great electric steel guitar playing by the late Barney Isaacs)
Webley Edwards Presents Hawaii Calls: Greatest Hits [playing with the Hawaii Calls band] (Capitol Records 1339 – out-of-print)
Hi`ilawe – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C.
Webley Edwards Presents Hawaii Calls: Hit Island Melodies – Instrumentals Recorded in Hawaii [playing with the Hawaii Calls band] (Hawaii Calls Records 7280 – out-of-print)
Hi`ilawe
Paradise Found –The fanstastic strings of felx slatkin [playing with the Felix Slatkin orchestra] (Liberty Records 13001 – out-of-print – also released on Hula Records Hs-412 – out- of- print
Hi`ilawe
Songbird of Hawaii [Backing up Lena Machado.] (Harmony-Columbia HL7182)
Holo Wa’apa – Capoed up five frets to sound in the key of G
George Kahumoku, Jr. :
Drenched By Music (Dancing Cat 38038)
Aloha `Oe – With George playing a nylon string guitar in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and a 12 string in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), capoed up five frets to sound in the key of C.
Ho`opoipo O Wai`anapanapa
Footprints in the Poi – George Kahumoku Jr. Live !! (Kealia Farms Record Company FKRC 1011)
Kai Malino
Mokuhulu
Paniolo Slack Key – Songs of the Hawaiian Cowboy (Kealia Farms Records FKRC 1017)
Paniolo Slack Key – tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C.
Pi’iholo Sunset
Seeds of Aloha Soundtrack (Kealia Farms Records)
Great Grandfather’s Slack Key – tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C.
Kai Malino
Ray Kane:
Punahele (Dancing Cat 38001)
Nani Ho`omana`o (Sweet Memories)
Ozzie Kotani:
Ho’ihi (Respect) – Traditional Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar (issued on Ozzie Kotani’s own label www.ozziekotani.com) (format this line)
Midnight Hawaiian Serenade
Nani Ho’omana’o
Wahine Slack Key
Leonard Kwan:
The Old Way (Tradewinds Records 1128 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Opae Tumatuma
Slack Key [with the black and white cover, also has tracks Slack Key guitarist by Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
3 Song Medley: Aia Hiki Mai/Koni Au/Palisa – Tuned up two half steps to sound in the key of E. This track also appears on the anthology recording Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2 (Tradewinds Records 5504 [cassette] and 104 [LP], LP is out-of-print) - [on this album, the same track is slower, with the guitar sounding as if the guitar is tuned up one half step to sound in the key of E flat].
Arthur Lyman
Hawaiian Sunset (High Fidelity Recordings 807)
Hi`ilawe – This track also appears on the anthology album Music of Hawaii – Arthur Lyman (Legacy International 323).
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Some New Things! Ki Ho`alu: He Mau Mea Hou! (Topsoil Records 9083)
Aia he Anuenue Mahopa na Ao Pakahi (There’s a Rainbow Behind Every Storm Cloud)
O ka`Okika o Hawai`i Nei
Backyard Slack Key & Autoharp (Topsoil Records 8128) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
Ka Mea Nui
Manu `O `O – Capoed up three frets to sound in the key of F.
Slack–Key Vagabond (AIM Recording Co. 7–29012–5)
Pala`ai Hula
Peter Moon:
Hawaiian Time [with The Sunday Manoa] (Hula Records 528)
Ka`ena
Spirit Lover [with Cyril Pahinui] (Kanikapila Records 1002)
Harvest of Rainbows – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C.
Tommy Solomon:
Midnight Hawaiian Serenade –Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists. Originally issued on 78-RPM (49th State Records #136B – out-of-print).
D5. D–A–C#–F#–A–C#
Invented by Ken Emerson and called Ken Emerson’s D Wahine Tuning.
Ken Emerson
Slack & Steel (Liko Hawaiian Folk Collection Volume 3 2002)
Ua kea
D6. D–A–E–F#–C#-D
Invented by Stephen Inglis
Stephen Inglis
Mahina O Wai’alae (‘Amakua Records AR0001)
Pomaika’i No Kakou
D7. D–A–D–F#–B–E
Called Cyril’s D Tuning. Also called Rapa-nui Tuning by Pat Cockett. A slight variation of two tunings: #D-7 (D-A-D-G-B-E - the Dropped D Tuning), and #D-6 (D-A-D-F#-B-D - the D Sixth Tuning).
Kapono Beamer:
Escape to Paradise (Volcano Records 81001)
Pipeline Slack Key –Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of E. This track also appears on the anthology recording Hawaii’s Great Contemporary Classics (Hawaiian Collections Series HCS1).
Sonny Lim:
Slack Key Guitar – The Artistry of Sonny Lim (Palm Records PALM4023)
Malie
Cyril Pahinui:
He’eia (Dancing Cat 88697-09882-2)
Salomila
6 & 12 String Slack Key (Dancing Cat 38010)
Lullaby for Pops
Marketplace
Moloka`i–nui–a–Hina
Night Moon (Po Mahina) (Dancing Cat 38030)
Ho`okena – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Hurrah Lani Ha`a Ha`a – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Po Mahina – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Sanoe
Bla [backing up Bla Pahinui] (Pualani Records 1001 – out-of-print)
Beautiful Ilima – With Cyril playing lead guitar and the ending in this tuning, and Bla Pahinui on rhythm guitar in the Dropped D Tuning (#D7: D–A–D–G–B–E).
Sanoe – With Cyril playing lead guitar in this tuning, and Bla Pahinui on the introduction and rhythm guitar in the Dropped D Tuning (#D7: D–A–D–G–B–E), especially for the ending
Ia`oe E Ka La, Helu `Ekahi – Volume One [backing up Palani Vaughan] (Nakahili Records 100)
Ka`a Ahi Kahului (Train Song) – With Cyril playing the second instrumental break in this tuning tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of C, and Dennis Kamakahi on second Slack Key guitar and the first instrumental break in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C20: C–G–E–G–A–E).
Cyril Pahinui (with The Sandwich Isle Band):
The Sandwich Isle Band (Seabird Sound Hawaii 1003)
Night Woman– Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#.
Ulile `E – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#.
D8. D–A–D–G–B–E
Often used in guitar accompaniments as a slight variation of the Standard Tuning to play in the key of D. Sometimes called Dropped D Tuning in Mainland America.
Ledward Kaapana (with the group I Kona):
Na Leo Kani O Punahele (Pumehana Records 4908)
Haleiwa Paka
I Kona – This track also appears on the anthology recording The Best Of Bill Murata – The Producer (Pumehana Records 4924).
Kuu Ipo I Ka Hee Pue One
Manu O`O
Mauna Loa
Mauna Olu
Nahenahe (Kahale Music 2201)
E Huli Ho`i Mai
Dennis Kamakahi:
`Ohana (Family) (Dancing Cat 38043)
Pua Hone – Capoed up one fret to sound in the key of Eb.
Bla Pahinui: (Bla plays this tuning left–handed and upside down)
Windward Heart (Dancing Cat 38052)
E Nihi Ka Hele
E Pili Mai
Gabby’s Song
If I Give My Heart to You
Makapu`u Beach
May God Bless You – Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F.
Medley: Wai O Ke Aniani/E Nihi Ka Hele – Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F.
Meleana E
Moonlight Lady – Played in the keys of C and D.
Pauoa Liko Ka Lehua
Pua Tuberose
Ua (Rain) – Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F.
Waimanalo Blues – Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F.
Waimanalo Country Boy
Mana (Dancing Cat 38033)
Aloha Ka Manini – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of E.
E Aloha E – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of E.
50’s Medley: Silhouettes (One the Shade)/Goodnight My Love/Can’t Help Falling In Love
Gabby Kai – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of E.
Incoming – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of E.
Isa Lei – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of E.
Ka`ena– Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of E.
Kaua`i Beauty – Capoed to the second fret to sound in the key of E.
Ku`u Ipo (I Ka He`e Pu`e One) - (with a different melody than the one usually sung)
Maori Brown Eyes
Meleana E
Sanoe – Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F.
Bla (Pualani Records 1001 – out-of-print)
Beautiful Ilima – With Bla playing in this tuning, and Cyril Pahinui on second guitar in Tuning #D6 (D–A–D–F#–B–E), especially for the ending.
Limahuli
Sanoe – With Bla playing in this tuning, and Cyril Pahinui on second guitar for the instrumental break in Tuning #D6 (D–A–D–F#–B–E).
Waikiki Hula – Capoed to the seventh fret to sound in the key of A
Bla Pahinui (Mountain Apple Records 2002 – out-of-print)
All I Have To Do Is Dream
Gabby`s Song
He`eia– Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F.
Hi’ilawe (with a different melody than the one usually sung) - Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F
Honey
Kaho’olawe
Kou Aloha Mau A Mau
Leilani Honey
Na Moku Eha – Capoed to the third fret to sound in the key of F.
Sleep Kaikamahane
Ki Ho`alu Christmas (Dancing Cat 38037)
Away in a Manger
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
O Come All Ye Faithful – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of E.
Hawaiian Journey Through the Storms of Life (Coco Records HACD-1969 - [album by Kawika Crowley - Bla plays his song Waimea on this album
Waimea – Capoed up two frets to sound in the key of E.
Gabby (the “Brown Album) (Panini Records 1002) – [with Bla backing up Gabby Pahinui]
Lihue - Bla Pahinui plays the nylon string guitar in the Dropped D Tuning (#D7: D-A-D-G-B-E), tuned down one half step to sound in the key of C#. Gabby Pahuni plays the 12 string guitar in C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E), tuned up one half step to sound in the key of C#.
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 2 (Panini Records 1008) – Gabby on 12 string guitar
Pua Tubarose – Gabby Pahuniu plays the 12 string guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E), capoed up twp frets to sound on the key of D.
Makapu’u Beach – Bla plays the nylon string guitar in this tuning.
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 1 [with Gabby Pahinui] (Panini Records 1007, also issued on Warner Brothers Records 3023 – out-of-print)
Moonlight Lady – Played in the keys of C and D.
D9. D–A–D–F#–B–D
Called D Sixth Tuning, and sometimes called Boogie’s D Tuning, for Boogie Kalama’s use of it.
Carlos Andrade (with Na Pali):
Na Pali (Awapuhi Records AWA 8538)
Hanalei Bay Blues
Ua Mau –Hosana – With Carlos capoed up five frets to sound in the key of G in this tuning, and Pat Cockett playing in tuning # G1 (D-G-D-G-B-D).
Kapono Beamer
Secrets Under the Sun (Onopak Music Records 131)
Brand New Morning
Tahiti Holiday [with Keola Beamer] (Lee Records 689)
Papeete Slack Key – This track also appears on the anthology recording Pure Hawaiian Magic (Paradise Productions 2010) under the title Kona Slack Key.
The Beamer Brothers (Keola and Kapono):
Honolulu City Lights (Paradise Records 808)
Kaliponi Slack Key – With Kapono playing in this tuning in the keys of D and G, and Keola in the D Major Tuning (#D1: D–A–D–F#–A–D), playing in the keys of D and G.
Sea Breeze (Puamana) – With Kapono playing in this tuning, and Keola in the D Major Tuning (#D1: D–A–D–F#–A–D).
D10. D-G-D-F#-A D
Chris Yeaton
Kikaha Malie (Woodsong Acoustics WAG-0001)
Mele La’au
D11. D–A–D–G–B–D
Sometimes called Open D Tuning (even though it is not an open D Major chord). Also sometimes called Double Dropped D Tuning in Mainland America. Can also be played effectively in the key of G.
Carlos Andrade (with Na Pali):
Na Pali - Pacific Tunings (Awapuhi Records 101)
Moonlight Lady
Bb Tunings
All Bb tunings are found in the C tuning part of Section 5, right after the C Tuning that they are related to, since they are very related to the C tunings (they are the same as C tunings, except the lowest 2 pitches are tuned up and reversed) and very often they are tuned up to sound in the key of C.
F1. C–F–C–G–A–F
Called ‘Elepaio Tuning, or Keola’s Unique F Tuning
Keola Beamer:
Wooden Boat (Dancing Cat 38024)
`Elepaio Slack Key
Malama Ko Aloha (Keep Your Love) – (‘Ohe Records 8733)
“Elepaio Slack Key
F2. F–C–E–G–C–E
Sometimes called Gabby’s F tuning.
Carlos Andrade (with Na Pali):
Na Pali – Pacific Tunings (Awapuhi Records 101)
Iesu No Ke Kahuhipa/Jesus – Played in the key of C.
Leonard Kwan:
Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Ray Kane] (Tradewinds Records 106 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Hawaiian Love – Tuned down to sound in the key of Eb. This song also appears on the anthology album Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 1 (Tradewinds Records 104 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Peter Moon
Black Orchid (Kanikapila Recoreds 1004)
Rain Tuahine O Monao
Gabby Pahinui:
Pure Gabby (Hula Records 567)
Farewell Medley – Isalei/Aloha O`e (2 Song Medley) – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E. This track also appears on Gabby’s “Best Of” recording The Best of Gabby, Volume 2 (Hula Records 585).
Nani Wale Lihu`e /Ka`i`iwi Polena Silver Threads Among the Gold/Nane Wale Lihu`e (March Style)/Wai`alae (5 Song Medley) – This track also appears on Gabby’s “Best Of” recording Ka Makana A Pahinui (The Gift of Pahinui) (Hula Records 578).
Hula Medley (Nani Wale Lihu`e/Wai`alae/Halona) – Originally issued in 1946 on 78-RPM (Bell Records #LKS 506B – out-of-print). Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E
Hawaiian Slack Key Volume 2 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 320)
Hula Blues
Slack Key Medley: Kona Kai Opua/Kila Kila Haleakala/Hano Hano Honalei
Slack Key Medley: Nalani/Akahi Hoi/Hoi Mai
Hawaiian Slack Key Volume 1 – With Gabby Pahinui (Waikiki Records 319)
Kaena
Slack Key Medley: Kuhio Bay/Roselani/Henderson’s March/Koni Au I Ka Wai/Hui E
Pua Lilia
Duke Kahanamoku’s Favorites [backing up Charles Miller, Jr.] (Waikiki Records 124 – out-of-print)
Maunakea
F3. C–F–C–G–C–E
Sometimes Called Leonard’s F tuning.
Keola Beamer:
Moe Uhane Kika (Tales of the Dream Guitar) (Dancing Cat 38006)
Au Kai
Kealoha
Medley: Ku`u Lei Awapuhi Melemele/Pua Be Still
Roselani Blossoms
Sanoe
Slack Key Music Box
Mauna Kea (White Mountain Journal) (Dancing Cat 38011)
Makika (Mosquito)
Pupu Hinuhinu (Shiny Shell Lullaby) – This song also appears on a compilation album entitled On a Starry Night (Windham Hill 11213).
Kolonahe (From the Gentle Wind) (Dancing Cat 38047)
He Aloha Mele
Honolulu City Lights – Played in the key of C.
Ipo Lei Manu/He`eia
Ku`u Lei Awapuhi – Played in key of Bb.
Maika`i Ka Makani O Kohala (How Fine the Wind of Kohala)
Soliloquy – Ka Leo O Loko (Dancing Cat 38012)
Wai Ulu – Capoed up to the forth fret to sound in the key of Ab.
Island Born (`Ohe Records 96118)
Hula O Makee – Tuned down two half steps, and fingered in the key of C, therefore sounding in the key of Bb.
Island Born – Tuned down two half steps, and fingered in the key of C, therefore sounding in the key of Bb.
Ke Ao Nani
Ku’u Hoa – Tuned down two half steps, and fingered in the key of C, therefore sounding in the key of Bb.
Sweet River – Tuned down two half steps, and fingered in the key of C, therefore sounding in the key of Bb.
Mohala Hou - Music of the Hawaiian Renaissance (‘Ohe Records 96120)
Ku’u Home O Kahalu’u – Tuned down one half step to sound in the key of E.
Moon and Stars – Capoed up six frets to sound in the key of B.
Malama Ko Aloha (Keep Your Love) – (‘Ohe Records 8733)
Ina (Imagine)
Pupu Hinuhinu
Leonard Kwan:
The Old Way (Tradewinds Records 1128 - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records [HOCD 53000], with the title THE LEGENDARY LEONARD KWAN – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS).
Akaka Falls – (Part of an unstated medley with Imi Au Ia Oe).
Mi Nei
Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 1 [anthology album] (Tradewinds Records 102)
Ahi Wela – With Leonard backing up Bob Kauhane Davis and the Kamahao’s Trio
Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2 [anthology album] (Tradewinds Records 104)
Hi`ilawe – With Leonard backing up Bob Davis and Edwina Noelani Kanoho (Noelani Mahoe).
Manu O`O – With Leonard backing up Edwina Noelani Kanoho (Noelani Mahoe).
Ke`ala’s Mele (Dancing Cat 38004)
Ki Ho`alu Chimes
Mauna Loa
2 song medley: None Hula/He Aloha No `O Honolulu
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas (Dancing Cat 38044)
We Wish You Merry Christmas – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of Eb.
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Paliku – this song in played in the keys of of F and C and F minor
F4. C–F–C–A–C–E
(Slack Key guitarist Keola Beamer has experimented with an untitled composition in this tuning)
F5. F–Bb–C–F–A–E
This tuning is both Wahine and Mauna Loa.
Mika`ele Mike McClellan:
Some New Things! Ki Ho`alu: He Mau Mea Hou! (Topsoil Records 9083)
`O KCCN
Backyard Slack Key & Autoharp (Topsoil Records 8128) – For ordering contact Mika`ele Mike McClellan, c/o Bartlett & Company, Box 10461, Portland, OR 97210.
`O KCCN
Slack–Key Vagabond (AIM Recording Co. 7–29012–5)
Hokuwelowelo Waltz
F6. Bb–F–C–F–A–E
This tuning is both Wahine and Mauna Loa. Tuning #F4 is similar to #F3 with the two lowest bass strings tuned up and reversed in pitch.
(Nothing has been recorded in this tuning)
A1. E–A–E–E–F#–C#
Called A Mouna Loa Tuning
Ray Kane:
Slack Key [with the black and white cover, which also has tracks by Slack Key guitarist Leonard Kwan] (Tradewinds Records 106) - reissued on CD on Hana Ola Records (HOCD 52000), with the title THE LEGENDARY RAY KANE –OLD STYLE SLACK KEY – THE COMPLETE EARLY RECORDINGS]
Kila Kila Haleakala. This track also appears on the anthology recording Party Songs Hawaiian Style, Volume 2, with the title (Tradewinds Records104] – Tuned down two half steps to sound in the key of F.
Wa`ahila (Dancing Cat 38002)
Kilakila `O Haleakala – Tuned up one half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
Popoki Slack Key – Tuned up one half steps to sound in the key of Bb.
A6. E–A–E–E–A–E
Sometimes tuned down as low as the key of G, resulting in (D–G–D–D–G–D), which is the same as #G6, with the whole guitar tuned up to the key of A. See just after tuning #G6 (D-G-D-D-G-D) for the song by Leonard Kwan recorded in this tuning.
C33. E–A–D–G–B–E
Called Standard Tuning, Standard Spanish Tuning, or Double Bass Tuning.
The key of C is the key most often used in this tuning for playing Slack Key guitar. On the acoustic guitar the standard tuning is also most often used in the keys of D, G, A, E, and F.
Led Kaapana and Abraham Konunui are listed first here – Abraham Konunui because of the incredible two tracks he recorded (he is also listed alphabetically later in this tuning); and Led Kaapana because of the large amount of recordings he has made in the Standard Tuning, especially with his groups I Kona and Hui Ohana. He is also the premier Slack Key guitarist ever for playing Slack Key in Standard Tuning.
Abraham Kalauli Konanui (Abraham Konanui is Ledward Kaapana’s late uncle; the second guitar may be Fred Punahoa, also Led Kaapana’s late uncle):
Hawaiian Melody: Slack Key/Kukuna Oka La – The two guitars are both played in the key of C. Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists – The guitars in this song are tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Originally issued on 78-RPM and 45-RPM (49th State Records #103B – out-of-print).
Maui Serenade (Medley): Slack Key/Slack Key/Aloha Ia No O Maui/Salomila/Papalina Lahi Lahi – The two guitars are both played in the key of C. Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists – The guitars in this song are tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Originally issued on 78-RPM and 45-RPM (49th State Records #104A – out-of-print).
Led Kaapana - When Led plays the electric guitar, he is always in Standard Tuning, tuned to concert pitch, and never uses the capo. (See list of his albums at end of this section.) Some songs listed here will be played in keys other than the key of C. In addition to the key of C in standard tuning, he most often plays in the keys of D, G., A. F, E, Eb, and Bb. There are many songs where Led plays great Slack Key guitar style and lead guitar in the Standard Tuning, and some of them include the following:
Led Live – Solo (Dancing Cat 38008)
Hi`ilawe –Tuned down one half step from concert pitch, and played in the ley of C, therefore sounding in the key of B.
Ka`a Ahi Kahului – Tuned down two half steps from concert pitch, and played in the keys of F and C, therefore sounding in the keys of Eb and Bb.
Mauna Loa Slack Key – Played in the key of A.
Kika Kila Meets Ki Ho`alu duet album with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38031)
Akaka Falls – With Led playing in this tuning in the key of F, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the key of F.
Fort Street – With Led playing in this tuning in the key of G, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D).
Hula Blues – With Led playing in this tuning in the key of G, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D).
Lepe `Ula`ula – With Led playing in this tuning in the key of C, and Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the key of C.
In the Saddle [duet album with Bob Brozman mainly on acoustic steel guitar] (Dancing Cat 38051)
Wai`alae – With Led playing in this tuning tuned down 2 steps to sound in the key of F, with Bob Brozman on acoustic steel guitar in the G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D), playing in the key of F.
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015)
`Akaka Falls – Played in the key of G.
Waltz of the Wind (Dancing Cat 38016)
Hanohano Hanalei – Played in the key of G on the tenor guitar
Honeysuckle Rose – Played in the key of F.
Koke`e – Played in the key of C
Spanish Eyes – Played in the key of C
Hui Ohana: Hawaii–Tahiti [with the group Hui Ohana] (Poki Records 9023)
Slack Key #3 – Played in the key of A. This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Hana Hou [with the group Hui Ohana] (Lehua Records 7008)
Mauna Loa Slack Key – Played in the key of A.
Hui Ohana (reunion album) (Paradise Productions 920)
Hilo One – Played in the key of A.
Ipo Hula – Played in the key of E.
Ka Nani Ao Ka`u – Played in the key of C.
Ka Pili Oha – Played in the keys of E and B
Kawaihae – Played in the key of E.
Keala Mokihana – Played in the key of D.
Laimana – Played in the key of Eb.
Manowaiopuna (Ko`ula) – Played in the key of E.
Pua Carnation – Played in the keys of A and Bb.
Pua O Kamakahala – Played in the key of E.
Still Pressin’ [with the group I Kona] (Kahale Music 2001)
Big Island Medley: Hilo March/Kohala March/San Antonio Rose/Yellow Bird – Hilo March/Kohala March is played in the key of D, San Antonio Rose is played in the key of G, and Yellow Bird is played in the key of C.
Funny Face – Played in the key of G.
Ho`ese Pue Ana `Oe – Played in the key of G
Nahenahe (Kahale Music 2201)
Awapuhi Mele Mele – Played in the key of G.
E Huli Ho`i Mai – Played in the key of D.
Hila Hila Ole`Oe – Played in the key of C.
I Kona – Played in the keys of D and E.
I Lanikai – Played in the keys of D and E.
Ilani Kai – Played in the keys of D, E and A.
Kapa`ahu – Played in the key of C
Moku Puna Nui – Played in the key of G.
Wahine Ilikea – Played in the key of A.
Jus’ Press (Leahi Records 2004)
Kipola – Played in the key of D.
None Hula – Played in the key of G.
12th Street Rag/ Sweet Georgia Brown– Played in the key of G.
Grandmaster Slack Key guitar (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-0309)
12th Street Rag/ Sweet Georgia Brown– Played in the key of G.
Force of Nature (duet album with 12-string rhythm guitarist Mike Kaawa – Mike plays all songs in the Standard Tuning [E-A-D-G-B-E] on the 12 string guitar accompanying Led Kaapana))
Twelfth Street Rag/ Sweet Georgia Brown
Lima Wela! (Leahi Records 2001 – reissued on Shaka Records SCD 3003)
Abilene – Played in the key of F.
Hookena – Led plays the second guitar part in this tuning in the key of C, and the main guitar part is played in tuning #C21 (C–G–E–G–A–E).
Memphis – Led plays the second guitar part in this tuning in the key of G, and the main guitar part is played in tuning #G1 (D-G-D-G-B-D)
Paoakalani – Played in the key of C
Rings on Your Finger – Led plays the second guitar part in this tuning in the key of C, and the main guitar part is played in tuning #C21 (C–G–E–G–A–E).
Simply Slack Key (Paradise Records 970) – On these songs, the Slack Key guitar part is listed as the main guitar part. The second guitar part is played on electric guitar in Standard Tuning. Led always plays in Standard Tuning on the electric guitar
Alma Mater Medley: Pahoa and Pahala High Schools – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
Come To Me Gently – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
E Ku`u Morning Dew – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
He Aloha No O Honolulu – The main Slack Key acoustic guitar part is in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D).
Kaua`i Waltz – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
Ku`u Ipo I Ka He`e Pue One – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
Lei Kikania – The main Slack Key acoustic guitar part is in G Major Tuning (#G1: D–G–D–G–B–D).
Maui Waltz – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
Ua Noho Au Akupa – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
You Are My Sunshine – The main Slack Key guitar part is in C Wahine Tuning (#C7: C–G–D–G–B–E).
Hawai’i I Ka Pu’uwai [with I Kona]
Come On Over– Played in the key of C
Hawaii I Ka Pu’uwai– Played in the keys of C and G
Honaunau Paka – Played in the keys if G and A
Ka’iwa– Played in the key of C
Ka’iwa (Uncut version) – Played in the key of C
Kamalani O Keaukaha– Played in the keys of C, G, D, and A
Lei Ohu– Played in the key of D
Lei Ohu (Uncut version) -[it is actually uncut version of Luau Hula] – Played in the key of C
Waiulu– Played in the keys of C and D
Melveen With the Best of Slack Key [with Led backing up Melveen Leed] (Lehua Records 7046)
Kamalani O Keaukaha – Played in the keys of F, C and G.
Puu O Hulu (Kauli Ili) – Played in the key of Eb.
E Ku`u Makana Ia Oe (My Fondest Gift to You) [backing up Matlynn Kawohi Kamelamela] (MPK Productions 001)
Grandpa – Played in the key of F.
Ho`ola La Hui Hawaii – Played in the key of F.
Ho`omana – Played in the key of D.
Kamalani O Keaukaha – Played in the keys of C and G.
Mama I Love You
My Song – Played in the key of C.
Pua Mana – Played in the key of G.
Pohakuloa – Played in the keys of G and A.
2 Song Medley: Hula O Makee/Kauluwehi O Ke Kai
E Mau Ana Ka Ha`Aheo (Enduring Pride) [backing up Olomana] (Better Days Records C002)
Na Pua Lei `Ilima – With Led playing electric guitar in this tuning in the key of G, and Haunani Apoliona on 12 string Slack Key guitar in tuning #G1 (D–G–D–G–B–D).
Tewetewe – With Led playing electric guitar in this tuning in the key of G, and Haunani Apoliona on 12 string Slack Key guitar in tuning #G1 (D–G–D–G–B–D).
Following are the other Ledward Kaapana albums. There are many other pieces with his great guitar playing.
Ledward Kaapana - Slack Key Recordings:
Black Sand (Dancing Cat 38015) - 2000
Led Live – Solo (Dancing Cat 38008) - 1994
Lima Wela! (Leahi 2001) -1983
Simply Slack Key (Paradise 970) – 1988
Ledward Kaapana Ki Ho’alu (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-) -2005
Grandmaster Slack Key guitar (Rhythm And Roots Records RR-0309) -2006
Ledward Kaapana with Bob Brozman and others
Kika kila meets Ki Ho’alu (Dancing Cat 38031) - with Bob Brozman - 1997
In the Saddle (Dancing Cat 38051) - with Bob Brozman -2001
Waltz of the Wind (Dancing Cat 38016) -with Nashville musicians as well as Bob Brozman -1998
Ledward Kaapana with Hui Ohana
Young Hawaii Plays Old Hawaii (Lehua 7006) - 1972
Hana Hou (Lehua 7009) - 1973
Ke Kolu [with Tina Kaapana] (Lehua 7012) - 1974
Live at Sounds of Hawaii Studios (Lehua 7016) - 1974
From Kalapana to Waikiki (Lehua 7020) - 1975
Mama [with Tina Kaapana] (Poki 9004) - 1974
Ono (Poki 9010) - 1976 Slack-Key Hula
Alania [with Tina Kaapana] (Poki 9014) - 1976
Hawaii – Tahiti (Poki 9023) - 1977
Aloha Pumehana (Poki 9031) – 1978
Portrait of the Kaapanas (Poki 9031) – 1978
Niihau - Hawaii (Pumehana 4919) -1980
Hui Ohana [the 1987 reunion album] (Paradise Records 920) -1987
Hawaiian Style Guitars (Lehua 320) – compilation album - 1988
Hui Ohana Live Tahiti – Come on Over (Paradise 1020) – 1989
Magic Islands (Poki Records – SPCD 9072) – compilation album - 2004
Ledward Kaapana with I Kona:
Na Leo Kani O Punahele (Pumehana 4908) -1978
I Kona Ka Lua O Ka Manawa (Pumehana 4922) - 1981
Jus’ Press (Lehai Records 2004) - 1984
Still Pressin’ (Kahala 2001) - 1989
Nahenahe (Kahala 2201) - 1991
Hawai’i I Ka Pu’uwai (Leo Nui 001) -1998
Kihei Brown Trio [the Slack Key guitarist, playing in the Standard Tuning is either Arthur Kalahiki or Jerry Quirido]:
Kihei Brown Trio, Family & Friends (Poki Records 9029)
He Nani Pua Hala – Played in the keys of G and C.
Kauhale O Kamapua`a – Played in the keys of C and D.
Kaula`ili – Played in the key of F.
Manini Beach Medley: Lae Lae/Pua Be Still/Papakolea – Played in the key D.
Sonny Chillingworth
Drinking Champagne [backing up Myra English] (Hula Records HS – 542)
KHBC -featuring a guitar phrase that Sonny got from steel guitarist Jake Keli’ikoa
Singing Bamboo [backing up Maddy Lam] (Island Recording Studio ILP – 101) – (also released on 78 RPM on Island Recording Studio # 3-4)
Singing Bamboo – played in the key of F
Alice Fredlund [with Linda Dela Cruz and Sybil Andrews]:
Alice – Linda – Sybil (Tradewinds Records 109 – out-of-print)
Another Hawaiian Like Me/Pua Sadinia – Played in the key of A.
Makee Ailana – Played in the key of C. This track also appears on the recording Best of Linda (Tradewinds Records 2201).
Na Pua Ka Ilima – Played in the key of A.
Pa`ahana – Played in the key of C.
Pipi Kaula – Played in the key of A.
Twilight at Halekulani (Tradewinds Records 107)
E Huli Makou - Played in the key of C.
Laimana – Played in the key of F.
Waialae Medley: Waialae/Uluhuna Wale Au/Pulupe/Sweet Lei Mamo – Played in the keys of G, C and F.
Linda Sings with the Halekulani Girls (Tradewinds Records 1121) [backing up Linda Dela Cruz]
Kuu Hoaloha – Played in the key of A.
Moari Brown Eyes – Played in the key of C
Atta Isaacs (with Gabby Pahinui):
Rabbit Island Music Festival [backing up Gabby Pahinui] (Panini Records 1004)
Kaua’i Beauty – Atta plays the introduction and the ending on the nylon string guitar in the Standard Tuning (#C33: E-A-D-G-B-E), playing in the keys of A minor and C in the introduction. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (#C11: C-G-E-G-B-E).
Manu Kahaialii (with the Kahaialii Family):
Kahaialii Maui Style (Naupaka Records 0001)
Imo Imo Palahi Paki – Played in the keys of F and C.
So Ti – Played in the key of D. This song also features Manu’s unique right hand hammer-on and pull-off techniques on the D and A7th chords, called ha ku`iku`i. His son, Willie K plays this song also in the Standard Tuning, in the key of C, with the technique used of the C and G7th chords. (also see Section VII, the glossery, under ha ku`iku`i)
Frank Palani Kaina [aka Frank Palani] (with The Ho`opi`i Brothers):
Kauna (Poki Records 9030)
Church Medley – Played in the key of G.
Kowaii – Played in the key of C.
Wahine U’i (Slack Key Instrumental) – Played in the key of C - This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Dennis Kamakahi:
Christmas Time with Eddie Kamae and the Sons of Hawaii [with The Sons of Hawaii] (Hula Records 4004)
Dear St. Nick – Played in the key of G, capoed up three frets to sound in the key of Bb.
Ia Kalikimaka (Christmas Day) – Played in the key of G.
Mele Au No Ku`u Ho`ola (My Redeemer) – Played in the key of G.
Eddie Kamae Presents the Sons of Hawaii – Pua Hone (Honey Flower) [with The Sons of Hawaii] (Hawaii Sons Records 3003)
We Have Two of Those – Played in the key of G.
Ray Kane:
Wa`ahila (Dancing Cat 38002)
Ke Kali Nei Au (The Hawaiian Wedding Song) – Played in the key if C, tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Abraham Kalauli Konanui (Abraham Konanui is Ledward Kaapana’s late uncle; the second guitar may be Fred Punahoa, also Led Kaapana’s late uncle):
Hawaiian Melody: Slack Key/Kukuna Oka La – The two guitars are both played in the key of C. Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists – The guitars in this song are tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Originally issued on 78-RPM and 45-RPM (49th State Records #103B – out-of-print).
Maui Serenade (Medley): Slack Key/Slack Key/Aloha Ia No O Maui/Salomila/Papalina Lahi Lahi – The two guitars are both played in the key of C. Reissued on the anthology album The History of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar - Vintage Hawaiian Treasures Vol. 7 (Hana Ola Records 24000), which has 20 historical tracks by nine Slack Key guitarists – The guitars in this song are tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Originally issued on 78-RPM and 45-RPM (49th State Records #104A – out-of-print).
Steve Kramer [with Cooper’s Still]:
KKUA Home Grown Album #1 (KKUA Records – out-of-print)
Big Island – played in the key of D
Elias Kuamo`o
Moments With You [[backing up Diana Aki] (Sunnyside Up Productions 101)
Aloha Hale O Ho`oponono – Played in key of F.
Ka Ua O Hilo (The Rain of Hilo) – Played in the key of G.
Manu Mele (Songbird) – Played in the key of C.
Oawa O Na Mo`i (Valley of the Kings) – Played in the key of G.
Aloha Kaimu [backing up G–Girl Keli`iho`omalu] (Liko Records Hawaiian Folk Collection, Volume 1, - 2000)
`Aina `O Lana`i – Played in the keys of F and G.
E Mililani `O Iehova – Played in the key of D.
Kula Mana – Played in the key of F.
Ku`u Lei Aloha – Played in the key of G.
Ku`u Makamae – Played in the key of D.
Na Pua Ka `Ilima – Played in the keys of D and F.
Ua Ali`ili`o O Nalani – Played in the key of F.
Our Gift of Song [backing up the Ho`opi`i Brothers] (Poki Records 9045)
Hali`i Ka Moena – Played in the key of C.
Ka Lehua I Mili`ia – Played in the key of G.
Kalama`ula – Played in the key of G.
Kamau Ki`aha – Played in the key of G.
Kihei – Played in the key of F.
Kolopo – Played in the key of G.
Ku`u Lei Momi (My Love at Ka`aena) – Played in the key of G.
Me Ka Nani A`o Kaupo – Played in the key of G.
Pa`ahana – Played in the key of G.
Papa Sia – Played in the key of A.
Then I Met Jesus – Played in the key of G.
Leonard Kwan:
Evening in the Islands [Anthology Recording] (Tradewinds Records 113 – out-of-print)
Hula O Makee – Played in the key of A, backing up the female singers.
Andy Llanos (with Na Hokupa):
A Touch of Yesterday (Kahale Music 7001)
Ahe Lau Makani – Played in the key of C.
Feeling Blue – Played in the keys of C and A.
Elmer Kohala Lim (with the Lim Family) [Elmer often plays in Standard Tuning with the Lim Family, especially in the keys of A, C, D, F and G]:
Sounds From Kohala (Pumehana Records 4911)
Mauna Loa – Played in the key of A. This track also appears on the anthology recording Slack Key Giants (Pumehana Records 4916).
Gilberto Martinez:
Gilberto Guitar (Sinergai Records 3303 – out-of-print)
Hawaiian Medley (with the songs Kaulana Na Pua, Waipio, and Makala Pua)
Peter Moon (with The Peter Moon Band):
Midnight Sun (Kanikapila Records 1012)
Halau Lani I Ke Ao – Played in the key of G, with the other Slack Key guitar part on played by Peter Moon in the G Major Tuning #G1 (D–G–D–G–B–D).
Peter Moon (with The Sunday Manoa):
The Sunday Manoa 3 (Panini Records 1005)
Hawaiian Lullaby – Played in the key of G.
Luka O Kokee – Played in the key of D.
Hiram Olsen [backing up The Kihei Brown Trio]:
Right–On Keia (Hula Records 505)
Kikau - Played in the keys of G and C
Na Hoa He`e Nalu - Played in the keys of G and C
Na Kane `Oiwi Hawai`i – Played in the key of C.
Hiram Olsen [with the Hiram Olsen Trio]:
Slack Key Special (MARC Records 510)
E Nihi – Played in the key of C.
Helena – Played in the key of C.
Honolulu Harbor – Played in the key of C.
Ke Ala Oka Rose – Played in the key of C.
Maile Lau Lii Lii – Played in the key of C.
Moku Kiakahi – Played in the key of C.
Nani Kaala – Played in the key of C.
None Hula – Played in the key of C.
Song of Kaupo – Played in the key of C.
Bla Pahinui
The Way I Feel (Hanaiia Records 1106 – out-of-print)
Brandy
Brandy’s Theme
Country Feeling
Grampa
Hawaii, I Love You
My Lady
Morning Nights
Waiting for the Sunrise
With You My Love
Gabby (the “Brown Album) (Panini Records 1002) – [with Bla backing up Gabby Pahinui]
Leahi - Bla plays the nylon string guitar in the Standard Tuning, in the key of C, tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B. Gabby Pahuni plays the 12 string guitar in C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E), tuned down one half step to sound in the key of B.
Rabbit Island Music Festival (Panini Records 1004) – [with Bla backing up Gabby Pahinui]
Kaua’i Beauty – With Bla Pahunui playing the nylon string guitar on the introduction and the ending in the Standard Tuning, playing in the keys of A minor and C; and with Atta Isaacs, Sr. playing the lead 6 string guitar in C Major Tuning (#C1: C–G–E–G–C–E); and with Gabby Pahunui playing the 12 string guitar in the C Wahine Tuning (C11: C-G-E-G-B-E).
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 1 [backing up Gabby Pahinui] (Panini Records 1007; also issued on Warner Brothers Records 3023 – out-of-print)
Hawaiian Love – Bla plays the nylon string guitar in the Standard Tuning, key of C, capoed up two frets to sound in the key of D.
The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band – Volume 2 (Panini Records 1008) – Gabby on 12 string guitar
Pu’uwa’a-awa’a – Bla plays the introduction on the nylonstring guitar in the Standard Tuning, fingering in the keys of G and Eb, and is capoed up eight frets, therefore sounding in the keys of E and C. Gabby Pahinui plays the 12 string guitar in the C Mauna Loa Tuning (#C22: C-G-E-G-A-E).
Gabby Pahinui
Hawaiian Slack Key – Volume 1 – With Gabby Pahinui
Paauau Waltz. Here Gabby Pahinui is playing this song with the ensamble in the Standard Tuning, in the keys of F and Ab, and uses the technique called ha ku`iku`i at the end of the song for variations on the chords of F# and E, before going back to the final Ab chord at the end of the song. (also see Section VII, the Glossery, under ha ku`iku`i)
Jeff Peterson:
Slack Key Guitar: The Artistry of Jeff Peterson (Palm Records PALM4025)
Makawao – Played in the key of E – tuned down a half step to sound in the key of Eb.
Fred Punahoa (Fred Punahoa is Ledward Kaapana’s late uncle):
Waimea Music Festival [Anthology Recording] (Panini Records 1006)
Slack Key Instrumental #2 (actual title is Mauna Loa Slack Key) – Played in the key of A.
Vicki I`i Rodrigues (with her daughters Lani, Lahela & Nina Kealiiwahamana on vocals):
Hawaii Aloha: Echoes of Old Hawaii (Waikiki Records 307)
Matsonia – Played in the key of C.
Pua Carnation – Played in the key of C. This track also appears on the anthology album Quiet Lagoon (Waikiki Records 333).
Party Hulas Featuring the Voice of Genoa Keawe (London International 99397)
Kane`ohe
Mele–Hula Volume Two (Noelani Records 103)
`E Ku`u Tutu – Played in the key of A.
Genoa Keawe Sings Luau Hulas [backing up Genoa Keawe] (Hula Records 514 – out-of-print)
Lei Nani – Played in the key of C.
Makee Ailana – Played in the key of C.
Meleana E – Played in the key of C.