Mark Keali'i Ho'omalu

Mark Kealiʻi Ho’omalu is a Hawaiian chanter and hālau hula (hula school) leader known for his powerful and innovative approach to traditional Hawaiian chanting. Born and raised in California, he developed his passion for Hawaiian culture and music early in life and eventually became a Kumu Hula (hula teacher). Ho’omalu is especially recognized for his dramatic and stylized chant performances that blend traditional native Hawaiian forms with modern influences.

He gained international attention for his work on Disney’s Lilo & Stitch (2002) soundtrack, contributing two memorable chants, including “He Mele No Lilo,” which introduced audiences around the world to the art of Hawaiian chanting. As the founder of the Academy of Hawaiian Arts based in Oakland, California, Ho’omalu continues to teach and share Hawaiian cultural practices, maintaining the connection between past and present in Hawaiian music and dance.

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