Makana

Makana is an internationally acclaimed slack-key guitarist, singer, composer, and cultural educator from O'ahu, Hawaii. He is recognized for his virtuosic and versatile performances, which blend traditional Hawaiian music with modern styles, creating a symphonic sound without relying on loop pedals or gimmicks. Makana's music has been featured on several Grammy-nominated albums, including the soundtrack for the Academy Award-winning film *The Descendants*. He has supported acts like Santana, Sting, and Jason Mraz, and has been honored with the prestigious Kī-Hō‘alu (Slack Key) Foundation Legacy Award. His live shows are a dynamic mix of slack key, folk, rock, bluegrass, and jazz, often incorporating stories and cultural context from Hawaii's rich musical heritage.

Makana's recent releases include albums such as *Pūlama: Legacies of Hawai'i*, *Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes*, and *Ki Ho'alu: Journey of Hawaiian Slack Key*, showcasing his deep connection to Hawaiian traditions while innovating within the genre. He is also known for his activism, using his platform to address social and environmental issues, including supporting local causes in Hawaii.

Genres

Singer-songwriter

Folk

Rock

Jazz

World

New Age

Bluegrass

Americana

Hawaiian

Slack-key Guitar

Latest Release

Make Believe Borders

Makana

Album - 15 Tracks - Released May 29, 2024