Some say that music can heal the soul. Get ready to take in the soothing sounds of Nā Mele artist Jeff Peterson.

On this holiday special enjoy Hawaiian Christmas medleys and original compositions from local artists, including Manu Boyd; Ho‘okena with Maila Gibson; Kuana Torres Kahele; Henry Kapono; Nina Kealiʻiwahamana with Aaron Salā; The Leo Nahenahe Singers; Gail Mack with Gordon Kim; and Peter Medeiros with Joshua Silva and Nate Stillman.

Join us for a special pledge concert with Robert Cazimero and Kuana Torres Kahele at Palikū Theatre

Keilana draws inspiration from artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder and local talent Justin Young to create a sound that’s all her own. A bit of jazz, R&B, neo-soul, with a lyrical style inspired by Native Hawaiian mele, where kaona or hidden meanings are built into the verses.

Kainani Kahaunaele has been a force in Hawaiian music for the last two decades. She garnered multiple awards for her albums Naʻu ʻOe (2003) and ʻŌhai ʻUla (2010). Most recently at the 2021 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards she won a total of seven trophies, including album of the year, for her most recent release Waipunalei.

Keilana talks about writing songs of heartbreak only to find hope.

Keilana Mokulehua explains her goals for expanding her music outside of Hawaiʻi.

Over 50 Years of "Soft and Sweet" Performances by The Leo Nahenahe Singers, Nā Hokū and Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame honorees, perform Hawaiian classics.

According to Kuana Torres Kahele, music can transcend boundaries. He hopes that Hawaiian songs, or mele, can spark something inside of listeners, no matter their culture. Enjoy this new episode of Nā Mele and our digital exclusive content.