Label: Decca – DL 74059
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Stereo, Pinckneyville Pressing
Country: US
Released: 1961
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Hawaiian, Pacific
Tracklist:
- Pua Mana
- Ke Kali Nei Au (Hawaiian Wedding Song)
- Kalua 3:34
- Mai Poina Oe Ia’u (Forget Me Not)
- Kuu Ipo (My Sweetheart)
- Now Is The Hour (Maori Farewell Song)
- Imi Au Ia Oe (King’s Serenade)
- Naka Pueo (The Owl Song)
- Ua Like No A Like (The Choice Of My Heart)
- Blue Hawaii
- Old Plantation
- Hawaiian Interlude
Notes:
The 1961 album “The Golden Voice Of Hawaii” by George Kainapau is a captivating collection of Hawaiian music that showcases his rich, melodic voice. Released by Decca Records, the album features a mix of traditional Hawaiian songs and popular standards, all performed with a lush, orchestral arrangement. Tracks like “Pua Mana” and “Ke Kali Nei Au (Hawaiian Wedding Song)” are timeless classics that evoke the beauty and spirit of Hawaii, while songs like “Kalua” and “Mai Poina Oe Ia’u (Forget Me Not)” add a festive and romantic touch to the album.
Interestingly, George Kainapau was known throughout the islands and the mainland as “The Golden Voice Of Hawaii,” a title he earned not only for the rich quality of his voice but also for his unique singing style. The album was produced by Enoch Light, known for his innovative approach to orchestral music, and recorded by Robert Fine, ensuring high-quality sound production. The cover art and liner notes were designed to capture the exotic allure of Hawaii, appealing to listeners who were fascinated by the island lifestyle and culture.
Despite the fictional nature of the band, the music on “The Golden Voice Of Hawaii” is authentic and showcases the rich musical heritage of Hawaii. The album’s tracks are a perfect blend of traditional Hawaiian melodies and modern orchestral arrangements, making it a cherished piece for fans of Hawaiian music and exotica. The album’s popularity in the 1960s contributed to the enduring appeal of Hawaiian-themed music and its influence on future generations of musicians.