KAPA FM Radio presents Na Leo Nani E, starting at 1 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 20) at the University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center.
Headlining the concert is Na Leo Pilimehana, featuring the musical stylings of Lehua Kalima, Nalani Jenkins and Angela Morales. Na Leo is the biggest selling Hawaiian music group in the world. Winners of 23 Na Hoku Hanohano awards, the group began their career in 1984 with the launch of their single hit “Local Boys.”
With more than 20 No. 1 hits, two National Top 25 songs, more than 23 CDs and worldwide distribution, Na Leo continues to write, record and perform. They currently are working on their first CD in seven years. Look for the new release this year.
The lineup of performers for the concert also includes the talents of Kalani Pe‘a, Bert Naihe and Darlene Ahuna. There also will be hula performances by Hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani E under the direction of kumu hula Iwalani Kalima; Halau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua led by kumu hula Johnny Lum Ho and Hula Halau O Kahikilaulani led by kumu hula NaHokuokalani Gaspang.
Singer/songwriter Pe‘a is the first Hawaii recording artist to win both a 2017 Grammy Award and 2017 Na Hoku Hanohano Award for his album “E Walea.” A native of Pana‘ewa, Pe‘a currently resides on Maui where he is pursuing his music career full time.
Singer/musician Naihe is a musician for Halau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua. Born and raised in Hilo, Naihe released his first CD, “You’re The One,” in 2014.
Ahuna is one of Hawaii’s foremost female vocalists. A multiple Na Hoku Hanohano award winner, including Female Vocalist of the Year, she performs concerts in Hawaii, the continental U.S. and Japan. Ahuna is the classic Hawaiian vocalist, whose musical influences include Lena Machado, Genoa Keawe, Leina‘ala Haili, Hui ‘Ohana and the falsetto stylings of Dennis Pavao.
Tickets are $30 pre-sale, $35 at the door. Advance tickets are available at Oshima Surf &Skate in Waimea, Basically Books, Keaukaha General Store and CD Wizard in Hilo and Liquid Life in Keaau.
For more information, call 895-4000.
The concert is a fundraising event for Hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani E as they prepare to compete in the 2018 Merrie Monarch Festival.
