Raymond Kane

Raymond Kāne was a renowned master of the slack-key guitar, born in Koloa, Kauaʻi, on October 2, 1925. He grew up in Nanakuli on Oʻahu's Waiʻanae Coast, where his stepfather worked as a fisherman. Kāne's unique style was characterized by his use of ki ho'alu tunings, playing with only his thumb and index finger, and incorporating distinctive hammer-ons and pull-offs. His music is often described as *nahenahe* (sweet sounding), emphasizing the importance of playing from the heart. Kāne was awarded a 1987 National Heritage Fellowship by the National Endowment for the Arts, recognizing his contributions to traditional Hawaiian music.

Kāne's discography includes notable albums such as *Slack Key* (1958), *Nanakuli's Raymond Kane* (1974), and *Hawaiian Sunset Music, Vol. 1* (1998). His work has been celebrated for its authenticity and craftsmanship, solidifying his legacy in the world of Hawaiian music. Kāne passed away on February 27, 2008, but his influence continues to inspire contemporary slack-key guitarists and preserve Hawaiian cultural heritage through music.

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