Celebrating 35 years of great music

The Senate yesterday recognized the renowned island musical group Kalapana in celebration of the band’s 35th anniversary. On the floor were band members Malani Bilyeu, DJ Pratt, and Gaylord Holomalia.

Kalapana emerged as one of the most popular bands on the Hawaiian music scene in the 70s, producing a steady stream of hits. Their 1975 debut album was hailed as one of the best of the mid-70s Hawaiian renaissance. Tracks like “Naturally,” “Nightbird,” “The Hurt,” “You Make It Hard,” and “When the Morning Comes” became household tunes and still enjoy frequent play on contemporary Hawaiian radio. In concert they opened for bands like Earth, Wind and Fire, the Moody Blues, Sly and the Family Stone, and local favorites Cecilo and Kapono.

Musical trends have come and gone, but Kalapana’s many hits have remained Island classics. After 35 years, Kalapana still stands as a symbol of inspiration for contemporary Hawaiian music today.