Ken Emerson

Ken Emerson is a highly regarded traditional Hawaiian steel guitarist known for his unique playing style, which blends the grassroots origins of Hawaiian guitar with modern influences. He is also a virtuoso in slack key guitar, combining both styles in what he calls "slack/steel," a self-accompanying style popular in the early days of Hawaiian steel guitar. Emerson's versatility has led him to collaborate with artists like Todd Rundgren, Taj Mahal, Jackson Browne, Donald Fagen, and Charlie Musselwhite. His albums, such as "Sacred Slack & Steel Guitar," showcase his mastery of vintage National Resophonic guitars and his ability to blend Hawaiian music with other genres like gospel and blues.

Emerson's musical journey began early, with influences from his father's diverse record collection, which included world music, jazz, and pop. He has spent significant time in Hawaii, contributing to the local music scene by perpetuating acoustic steel guitar, which was a dying art form in the 1970s. Emerson's work often features instrumental renditions of classic songs, highlighting his unique guitar skills. His recent releases include "Slackers in Paradise: Slack and Steel Guitar Duets" and "A Backporch Slack & Steel Christmas," further showcasing his innovative approach to traditional Hawaiian music.

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