Willie K, born William Kahaiali'i and popularly known as Uncle Willie in his native Hawaii, was an extraordinarily versatile musician, revered for his ability to mesh traditional Hawaiian music with genres as varied as blues, rock, and opera. Born on October 17, 1960, in Lahaina, Hawaii, Willie K grew up in a family of musicians and quickly manifested his musical prowess, both as a guitarist and a vocalist. Over his illustrious career, he carved out a reputation as one of the most electrifying performers in Hawaii, earning respect and admiration not just regionally but globally.

With a discography that includes heartfelt renditions of classic Hawaiian tunes, as well as original compositions that beautifully showcase his dynamic capabilities, Willie K's passion for music was palpable in every note. Albums such as "The Uncle In Me Volume 1 and 2" capture his cultural pride and familial warmth, while "Warehouse Blues" displays his grittier, soulful side, paying homage to the blues genre he loved deeply. His holiday-themed albums, “Willie Wonderland” and “Willie Kalikimaka,” exhibit his playful spirit and ability to bring festive cheer through music. His presence on stage was magnetic, often leaving audiences mesmerized by his ability to shift seamlessly from crooning a tender ballad to belting out powerful blues-rock. Willie K's untimely passing on May 18, 2020, left a void in the Hawaiian music scene, but his legacy endures through his rich catalog of music and the many lives he touched with his artistic genius.