Kamaka Camarillo (Hawaii)

Kamaka Camarillo is a musician and educator from Kīhei, Maui, where his deep connection to Hawaiian language and culture informs both his teaching and songwriting. A graduate of the University of Hawai`i at Mãnoa in Music Education, Kamaka teaches guitar, ‘ukulele and Polynesian music at Kaiser High School in Honolulu, while also performing regularly in Waikīkī. His debut album S.O.U.L., won R&B Album of the Year at the 2020 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and his work continues to explore the intersections of heritage, identity and contemporary Hawaiian expression.

Featured Song:

“E Mãmã” is a personal reflection on Kamaka’s journey to reconnect with his native language and cultural roots, a path inspired in part by fellow Maui-born musician Anthony Pfluke, who joins him on vocals and ‘ukulele. Written entirely in Hawaiian, the song uses the metaphor of returning to one’s parents—mãmã representing the language and pãpã representing the culture—to express a deep longing for reconnection. “My mother tongue / My history / My roots, I am returning.” With gentle instrumentation and references to the winds, birds and seas of Maui, the song is both a personal offering and a tribute to Hawai`i’s enduring spirit.

Artist Website

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