09/19/11

Story by Diane Carroll

Makaha Sons

Makaha Sons bring songs, spirit of Hawaii to JCCC

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - The Makaha Sons will continue a 30-year tradition of Hawaiian instrumental music, vocal arrangements and the spirit of aloha when they appear at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15 at Johnson County Community College.

The group will perform in Yardley Hall of the Carlsen Center. A preconcert talk by Dorinda Makanaonalani Nicholson will begin at 7 p.m.

Tickets, which are $35 and $45, are available through the box office at 913-469-4445 or at www.jccc.edu/TheSeries.

As one of Hawaii’s premiere musical groups, the Makaha Sons have committed themselves to perpetuating traditional Hawaiian music throughout Hawaii and the world. In 1976 the Makaha Sons of Ni'ihau began their professional career with five members as an opening act in a small nightclub known as Uptown Yokos. They originated on the leeward (Kona or westerly) side of O'ahu. After the deaths of the Kamakawiwoole brothers, the remaining members dropped the “of Ni'ihau” and are known simply as the Makaha Sons. Now the Sons are a trio, consisting of Louis “Moon” Kauakahi on six-string guitar, John Koko on upright acoustic bass and Jerome Koko on 12-string guitar.

The Sons have received numerous proclamations and awards for their efforts to perpetuate Hawaiian culture through music. They have released 21 CDs, with their latest compilation titled, Heke Wale No – Only the Very Best of the Makaha Sons. Also popular is a recent DVD, The Makaha Sons Live at the Hawaii Theatre.

Besides the music, the audience will learn about the history of traditional Hawaiian songs and be treated to hula by professional dancers.

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