Imagine yourself sitting on a warm, soft sandy beach, the waves lapping gently at your feet, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of fresh flowers, and the faint strumming of a ukulele. 

Hawaiian music is like the soft whisper of the island, telling tales of love, loss, joy, and breathtaking natural beauty – aloha‘s many expressions, each more captivating than the last. 

Packed with mellow rhythms and the gentle twang of the ukulele, Hawaiian songs will always make you feel like you’re swaying gently in a fabulous luau.

But let’s not forget that we’re not just talking about Hawaiian music here, we’re talking about the glorious world of Hawaiian Karaoke. It’s like a freshly baked malasada (that’s a divine Portuguese doughnut popular in Hawaii, in case you didn’t know!), sweet, comforting, and impossible to resist. 

Karaoke is BIG in Hawaii – possibly just as big as surfing or enjoying a cracking good plate lunch – it’s a way of life. The joy of singing along to popular Hawaiian songs, with friends, family, or even solo, is a cultural phenomenon that brings people together, regardless of talent.

We’ll kick off with an exploration of classic Hawaiian karaoke gems, reminisce a bit about their charm and timelessness, and then shimmy our way over to some contemporary Hawaiian karaoke tracks that are just as captivating. 

And because I know you’re already tapping your foot in anticipation, I’ll end by answering those burning questions you’re too shy to ask. Let’s hula right in!

List of Popular Hawaiian karaoke songs

1. “Tiny Bubbles” – Don Ho

Don Ho’s “Tiny Bubbles” is like the piña colada of old Hawaiian karaoke songs – bubbly, sweet, and just a pinch cheesy. But boy, does it make you feel happy (albeit a bit goofy if you get the gestures wrong). It’s got one of those tunes that immediately takes you back to the island’s tranquil beaches and radiant sunsets.

2. “Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What A Wonderful World” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Raise your hands if you’ve cried a little while listening to this popular Hawaiian karaoke song! Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s voice is like a warm blanket over a cold night. His rendition of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” tugs at your heartstrings while soothing your soul. It’s a marvelous track to sing along to, transporting you into an enchanting world where the skies are always blue.

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3. “Blue Hawaii” – Elvis Presley

Ah, Elvis Presley’s “Blue Hawaii”, now that’s a tune that gets heads bobbing and hips swaying! Singing this classic track, you might just surprise yourself with a sudden urge to swing your hips in Elvis’ style. It’s a delightful traditional Hawaiian song that captures the island’s aura while filling your heart with joy.

4. “Hawai’i ’78” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Let’s move on to the newbies. Kamakawiwo’ole’s “Hawai’i ’78” is a poignant tribute to the ponderings of past kings about the future of the islands and one of the best Hawaiian karaoke songs of recent times. An ounce of nostalgia, and a dash of patriotism, all blended with the velvety richness of Israel’s voice – it’s a melodic journey you’d want to embark upon, time and again.

5. “Better Together” – Jack Johnson (From Hawaii)

Pour yourself a cup of “Better Together” from Jack Johnson, a subtle nod to the magic of companionship. It’s your jam (pardon the pun) for those lazy, sunny afternoons when it feels like life is plucking along in perfect harmony, one glorious chord at a time.

6. “Island Style” – John Cruz

Last but not least, “Island Style” by John Cruz – an inviting melody that’s too good to pass. It’s like an invitation to lose yourself in the carefree, loving spirit sprinkled all over Hawaii. It’s an ode to the island life that makes you feel the spirit of aloha.

Our Final Words

So there you have it, our round-up of timeless Hawaiian karaoke classics and contemporary head-boppers. Each song, in its distinctive way, encapsulates the aloha spirit and the charm of the islands. All are well worth a stride to the karaoke stage.

Hawaiian karaoke songs, much like a refreshing bowl of poke, have that certain something that always leaves you craving more. Their enduring popularity doesn’t just come from their soothing island melody but from their ability to make us all feel connected to a shared spirit of joy, unity, and unapologetic enjoyment.

Looking for fun things to do in Hawaii? Here’s a list of the best Hawaii travel books to guide your next adventure!

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