Makaha Sons
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For 30 years, the Mākaha Sons have committed themselves to perpetuating traditional Hawaiian music throughout Hawai‘i and the World. In 1976 the Mākaha Sons of Ni‘ihau began its professional career with five members as an opening act in a small nightclub known as Uptown Yokos. Throughout the years the group has reorganized several times; from members seeking other professional careers, to the untimely passing of two key members of the original group. The Sons have since evolved into a trio, consisting of members Louis “Moon” Kauakahi on 6-string guitar, John Koko on upright acoustic bass and Jerome Koko on 12-string guitar. Today, the Mākaha Sons, considered to be one of Hawai‘i’s premiere Hawaiian musical groups, continue to perpetuate that vibrant sound, full and rich with harmonies that only they can create. Their incomparable vocal arrangements and delightful stage presence filled with comical antics have won the hearts of thousands of fans worldwide.
In commemoration of the group’s 30th anniversary, the Sons reflect back to the times and places they have had the privilege and honor to have been a part of. Their performances have taken them to such prestigious places as Carnegie Hall in New York City, Washington, D. C., and in Hawai‘i, with performances for both the President and Vice-President of the United States. They have also appeared on the movie, North Shore and have been featured guests on shows as The Captain and Tennille Show. NBC’s Today Show with Bryant Gumbel and Katie Couric. Locally they have appeared on shows such as Island Music, Island Heart, Emme’s Island Moments and have had the honor of performing alongside with one of America’s musical icons, Kenny Loggins.
The Sons have also received numerous proclamations and awards, both here and in the continental U.S. for their continuous and undying efforts in perpetuating Hawaiian culture through music. Their peers in music have also acknowledged their efforts by awarding them countless “Na Hoku Hanohano Awards” for their timeless recordings and steadfast commitment to the music of Hawai‘i. They have released 21 CD’s, their latest compilation titled Heke Wale No – Only the Very Best of the Makaha Sons, with songs from their last five recordings from 1994 to present.
Ever mindful of the future for both the music and culture, the Makaha Sons have recently formed the “Makaha Sons Foundation”, which have generously supported a variety of organizations, from helping some of Hawai‘i’s officers of the police department, families afflicted with illnesses, to providing scholarships each year to a deserving high school graduating senior. The Mākaha Sons: Moon, John, and Jerome are ever-so thankful and overjoyed to see a whole new generation of young Hawaiian artists spring to life. The legacy of Hawaiian Music continues through the efforts and recordings of such performers as Raiatea Helm, Natalie Ai Kamauu, Hōkū Zuttermeister, Barry Kimokeo, Nā Kama, and many, many others.
