The Hawaiian Wedding Singer

Island of Oahu, Hawaii

About this vendor

I am a local Hawaiian musician who specializes in performing for wedding ceremonies, cocktail hours, receptions, private parties and special events. My acoustic music is created with a 6-string tenor ukulele and my tenor/baritone voice. I've been performing professionally since 2008 and have performed for nearly a thousand weddings on the island of Oahu over the past 16 years. Upon request, I can provide conch shell blowing, additional musicians (guitarist and bassist if needed), a solo female hula dancer and MC services. I also perform for marriage proposals, birthdays, anniversaries, funerals, graduations, banquets, family gatherings, private dinners, holiday events or any other special occasion in need of acoustic Hawaiian & Island Style ukulele music. For specific price quotes, please message me your event information including the date, time, location and number of attendees and I will return you email as soon as possible. For immediate assistance, feel free to call or text me directly for last-minute, week or day-of requests. I am located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu and as you can tell from my pics, I like to surf! Aloha! Kanekoa

Details

Business Attributes

Asian-owned Business
Pacific Islander-owned Business

Instruments

Ukulele
Vocals

Music Genres

Classical
Dance
Pop
R&B
Rock
World Music

Music Services

Live Music
Sound Equipment

Wedding Activities

Rehearsals & Parties
After Party
Rehearsal Dinner
Welcome Party
Wedding
After Party

5

out of 5.0

37 reviews

Search reviews

6/14/2024 • Todd S

I attended a gorgeous wedding in Mokuleia and got to experience the magic of a true, experienced Hawaiian professional. While Kanekoa can command a room or an outdoor space with his musical talent and charisma, perhaps his greatest skill is his ability to add to the atmosphere w/out overpowering it. His music added the perfect background to enhance the ambiance and give just the right amount of energy yet never steal focus from the bride and groom. When called upon, Kanekoa obliged wide ranging requests and had a great rapport with the wedding guests but just as easily faded into the background with the his acoustic ukulele providing the perfect soundtrack for a Hawaiian wedding.

1/17/2023 • Danny N

Kanekoa was amazing! We were planning our wedding from Australia, and Kanekoa was incredibly helpful, and knew immediately the vibe we were after. We wanted all Hawaiian Music, and left the rest up to Kanekoa. We were married in an intimate ceremony on the point at Turtle Bay. We didn't have any rehearsals, and instead just let the day take its course. It couldn't have gone better, and Kanekoa knew all of the right times to come in with the most incredible Hawaiian songs. Kanekoa played a sunset cocktail hour for us after the ceremony on the point, and everyone is still commenting on how great he was. Kanekoa was very friendly and accommodated all of our guests. He definitely made the day. Amy and I will never forget it, and we couldn't imagine our wedding without his touch. We would highly recommend to anyone! Thank you again Kanekoa!

10/14/2022 • Claudia C

Kanekoa was nothing short of AMAZING! He was on time, very professional, friendly with our guests and sang so beautifully. He has a variety of wedding songs to chose from and made sure he knew exactly what we wanted for our wedding day. He made our dream Hawaiian wedding that much more special.

9/09/2022 • Dane B

Hands down, the best ukulele wedding musician we could have asked for! Punctual, professional, flexible, affordable, words cannot describe the music he provided before, during and after our ceremony. If you plan on having your wedding ceremony in Hawaii, hire Kanekoa, you won't regret it!

8/01/2022 • Paige C

Was very happy with the wedding singer. He showed up early and provided great music that help set the tone for our Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander heritage event. I would definitely recommend.

7/28/2022 • April J

Kanekoa was truly incredible. He was flexible, easy to work with and is so talented. For our Kansas family of 33, being serenaded "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by a local Hawaiian was a magical moment. We left our ruby slippers at home, but he definitely brought a piece of home to our parent's 50th Wedding Anniversary beach celebration. He played beautiful music for the entire ceremony and some group dances at the end. Highly recommend Kanekoa! Mahalo!

10/19/2021 • Mark M

While we were unable to have our wedding in Hawaii with Kanekoa preforming for us, he was so professional and a kind person. Wonderful to work with and very responsive. I would highly recommend him for any event.

10/10/2021 • Kimberly R

Kanekoa was wonderful! Professional, responsive, trustworthy, and really went above and beyond for us. We were planning our beach wedding at Turtle Bay from the mainland and he gave us great advice on ceremony time, location, etc., since we couldn’t be there ourselves to scout all those things out. On the day, things were crazy, as expected, and I couldn’t answer his texts or calls as I was getting into my dress, but he still managed to find our party on the beach without an issue and everything turned out perfectly! His song list is beautiful and just right if you’re looking for ukulele music for your ceremony but don’t want to have to think too hard about the program because you have enough on your plate already (unless you’re looking to really personalize or tailor your song choices). Thank you so much, Kanekoa, for everything!!

9/28/2021 • Jonathan L

Professional and helpful, Kanekoa added a wondeful element of aloha to our ceremony. Communicated well, was on time, and flexible with changes.

3/23/2020 • Lourdes O

I usually do not write reviews but as a token of appreciation to Kanekoa (The Hawaiian Wedding Singer), I am today. We live in Miami, Florida and we contacted Kanekoa for our daughter’s destination wedding in Oahu, Hawaii for April 2020. One of the bride’s dream was to have a musician played the ukulele during the ceremony. For those brides & grooms looking for a musician for their event he is the one! Unfortunately, a month before her wedding we had to cancel due COVID-19 a global pandemic. I commend his level of professionalism, and commitment during the very difficult decision to cancel our daughter’s wedding. We look forward to visiting Oahu in the future and meeting in person our new Hawaiian native friend “Kanekoa”

9/05/2019 • Daris K

Wonderful person and beautiful music. You can't go wrong. Kanekoa was quickly responsive to inquiries and followups during the planning phase. His music complemented our wedding perfectly. He was very nice and had a warm personality. You will not go wrong by booking him.

8/23/2019 • Maile K

Kanekoa was great. He was punctual and the music was wonderful. He gave us some tips on arrangement of the ceremony with the music, as well as with some positioning for photos! The guests really enjoyed his performance and he was a true professional. I recommend his services. Mahalo!

6/04/2019 • Rebecca B

Kanekoa (HWS) was so professional, warm and personable during the whole planning process. He knows what he's doing, so unless you're a pro with specific ideas of what you want (which he is open to, by the way), I say just go with the flow and let him help you figure out what to play when, etc. The nice thing about using a live performer like HWS who knows what he's doing is that he can adjust as needed. Our timing was a bit off in our intimate backyard wedding (people walked down the aisle really quickly), but he was able to adjust and play partial songs and sing what made sense throughout. His music was beautiful, and he was even kind enough to accommodate a very last minute equipment change. The only thing I wish I'd done is possibly hire 2 musicians to add a guitar and use the full amplification so that the music was even more prominent during the cocktail hour. The ocean is loud! But, as HWS, he does have a strong baritone voice, so it all worked out.

1/16/2019 • Breanna C

Kanekoa is so talented and has such a beautiful voice. He was exactly what I was looking for. His music set the tone perfectly for our Hawaiian wedding. I loved all his song versions especially The Hawaiian Wedding Song. It was so nice having music after the ceremony during pictures as well, keeping the magic alive. His responses were always prompt and professional, very easy to work with. I would highly recommend Kanekoa if you're looking for that extra special touch to your ceremony.

1/03/2019 • Nikki H

If you want a new best friend who delights with his talent, instinctively knows what and when to play, and has a voice like an angel. Call the Hawaiian Wedding Singer. He isn't just a vendor. He is part of the family. Koa we love you.

10/15/2018 • Dave T

Kanekoa was wonderful at our wedding! He played the music beautifully, it was a wonderful compliment to our ceremony, and even musically accompanied me when I sang a song solo for my wife. A true professional, I would highly recommend without a doubt!

9/14/2018 • Pamela V

Truly an incredible experience working with Kanekoa. He was professional, helpful, and added to our special day. Without a doubt we'd recommend him again.

2/10/2018 • Robert D

Kanekoa was excellent and very professional. He did a fantastic job at entertaining our guests. Everyone raved about him, and enjoyed hearing the ukulele music. I certainly would ask him to come back again, the next time we want to entertain guests at our home. I highly recommend Kanekoa to anyone who wants a professional, prompt, excellent ukulele musician at their party. Two thumbs up!

12/29/2017 • Taylor H

Hiring the Hawaiian Wedding Singer was such a great decision and his music was a beautiful and special addition to our ceremony!

10/31/2017 • C C

Kanekoa was wonderful providing music for our ceremony and cocktail hour. He was open to our suggestions for songs and we loved working with him!

10/31/2017 • Tiana Maria C

The Hawaiian Wedding Singer made our wedding. We were beyond thrilled by the music and entertainment he provided for us and our guests. He was very professional, inspiring and talented. We could not be more grateful for his presence at our wedding and would recommend him to anyone who wants to have an unforgettable day accompanied by amazing music.

10/30/2017 • Tory G

Our ceremony on Makapu'u beach would not have been the same without Kanekoa and his music. It was the perfect compliment to our wedding day! I received so many compliments from my family and friends in attendance after our ceremony was completed because of the beautiful music he provided. If you are travelling from afar and want a true, authentic Hawaiian wedding experience, hire Kanekoa!!! Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

10/29/2017 • Ashley V

He gave the perfect touch to our ceremony!! Thank you!!

7/17/2017 • Elena D

Kanekoa did such a great job at our wedding! Having him there to play ukulele and sing was perfect for our ceremony. He sang the Hawaiian Wedding Song for the processional, over the rainbow at the conclusion of the ceremony, and then played acoustic ukulele for guests to enjoy after the ceremony. We loved all of it!!

6/15/2017 • Megan C

Kanekoa is the best! Our wedding ceremony at Waimanalo Beach would not be the same without his music! I was sooooooo happy to find him on the web and hire him for our special day! I would highly recommend his services for all beach wedding ceremonies in Hawaii!

2/15/2016 • a member

Kanekoa is absolutely the best. He is extremely professional and talented. He was punctual, knew exactly what to do and when and has an amazing voice. He took the microphone at the perfect moment and introduced our beautiful hula dancer who gave lessons to all interested. I would highly recommend him for weddings or any special occasion.

10/12/2015 • Knottie1444654448

We hired Kanekoa to perform at our 25th anniversary vow renewal. He was prompt in his responses when I contacted him and after meeting him in person, automatically new he was the right choice. He is very social, blended in as part of our family during the ceremony. His songs and playing the ukulele added such a calming, topical feel. Thank you for being a part of our celebration. Denis and Luana Brisson

5/13/2015 • Kate J

Kanekoa was truly wonderful. His voice and playing sounded far better than what we listened to online. On the wedding video, Kanekoa's voice sounds just like it did on the wedding day--in person. What a great talent and lovely addition to our small wedding. Would not have been the same or as memorable without his music !

5/10/2015 • quaffer

We organised our Hawaiian wedding from Australia with 16 guests travelling to Waikiki to share our special day. As the ceremony was on the lawn of the Halekulani at Waikiki we wanted a some intimate music. We found Kanekoa's site and thought that a special Hawaiian touch would be perfect for guests who were travelling so far. We were able to organise the play list with Kanekoa and payment all via Australia with ease. He was punctual, played and sang magnificently. A true gentleman and artist who complemented our ceremony perfectly. Highly recommended.

5/05/2015 • Lisa K

From the start, I knew that I wanted a ukulele player for my destination wedding on Oahu. I sent out a few emails to a couple ukulele players, and as soon as Kanekoa replied, I knew he was the one we would have on our special day. He was so informative, replied quickly, answered all of my questions, and gave great recommendations for music during the ceremony and after in the courtyard. After our wedding ceremony, we received so many compliments on Kanekoa’s ukulele playing and singing. People thought it was a nice touch that made the ceremony feel more intimate and personable. I am SO glad that we went with Kanekoa and would recommend him to anyone looking to add a personal touch to their wedding or event!

2/04/2015 • Knottie16516552

My sister found Kanekoa's details whilst doing some research. We were planning the wedding in Oahu all the way from Australia and he was always prompt and polite in replying to any queries we had. On the day itself, Kanekoa was prompt and added a lovely vibe to our intimate reception dinner on the beach at the Kahala. A special treat not only for us but all our guests. Mahalo again for contributing to our most special of days. Angie and Matthew

2/03/2015 • Warren W

We hired Kanekoa to perform during our ceremony on Magic Island in Oct 2013. He was punctual (even though i forgot to meet him at the designated spot) and entertained our guests during the entire ceremony. We wouldnt hesitate to recommend him for your special day and we wish to thank him again for his great performance! Warren and Yoko

1/27/2015 • Lindsay G

I found out about Koa because some of the girls I work with are friends with his wife, and I'm so glad I did! He was the perfect addition to our wedding. He gave it such a nice island vibe, exactly what we were looking for. He is easy to contact and responds relatively quickly. He accommodates your wants and needs and sounds great doing it! Honestly, I was so preoccupied walking down the isle, I don't remember what he sounded like..but I gut a lot of complements on him! I highly recommend using him for your wedding ceremony musician!

1/27/2015 • Knottie6754872

Kanekoa was the perfect addition to our intimate wedding. He is very talented and very professional. If you're getting married in Hawaii, then he is the right choice. The Snipes

1/26/2015 • Griselda L

My mother-in-law found Kanekoa on theknot.com. I contacted him and from the beginning he was extremely professional and courteous. He played for our ceremony at St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church (a.k.a. The Painted Church). Kanekoa added the very important final touch to our ceremony to truly make our day special. All of our guests truly enjoyed his music during the ceremony and afterwards while we took pictures. We highly recommend his services.

6/14/2014 • Lauren J

In the months leading up to the wedding, Kanekoa was prompt at replying to emails and any questions that we had. We wanted our ceremony to have an authentic 'Hawaiian feel', and Kanekoa provided just that, by both his music and his presence (no cheesy hawaiian shirt or leis here!). On the day, his music was true to the samples on his website, and complimented our ceremony perfectly. For any couples planning their wedding on the island of Oahu, we would highly recommend him!