Alan L. Akaka, considered by many to be the
world's leading Hawaiian steel guitar artist and entertainer actively performing
today. He is the past president of the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Association, an international
membership organization of Hawaiian steel guitar players and other Hawaiian
stringed instruments.
Mr. Akaka and his group, the Islanders,
began performing since 1983 at the Halekulani "House Without a Key" in
Waikiki. Mr. Akaka presently performs at the Wakiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.
As a recording artist, Mr. Akaka has been producing records with
the Islanders since 1988 and playing steel on recordings with such well-known artists as Benny Kalama, Sonny Kamahele, Genoa Keawe, Nina Keali'iwahamana, Darlene Ahuna, Owana, Gary Aiko, Ed Kenney, George Paoa, and many others. In Japan he recorded with the Mahina Stars, George Matsushita, Agnes Kimura and performed with many other entertainers throughout the country.
Alan Akaka
is from a family whose roots are deep in Hawaiian music. His father Senator
Daniel K. Akaka, former director of the famous Kawaiaha‘o Church Choir, played
an important role in Alan’s music beginnings and encouraged him through his
development.
His music foundation was further expanded
at family gatherings, Kamehameha Schools and the University of Hawai'i and he founded and directs the Kamehameha Middle School Na 'Opio Singers and Hawaiian Ensemble.
As for the steel guitar, Alan has created his own sound and style, incorporating
styles from the masters of steel - David Rogers, Benny Rogers, Jules Ah See,
Billy Hew Len, David Keli'i, Jake Keli'koa, and Jerry Byrd (who was his teacher).
Recording artist and leader of "The Islanders" Alan travels throughout the world as an entertainer and guest soloist perpetuating Hawaiian music while gaining renewed interest in the unique, lilting sound of the steel guitar.
