At just 15 years old, Kamaha'o Haumea-Thronas has already made a remarkable impact on the Hawaiian music scene. This talented singer and musician has been captivating audiences across the islands with his soulful renditions of traditional Hawaiian hula classics and his unwavering commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of his people.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Hawaiian Music Ambassadors

Honoring the Kūpuna and Carrying on the Tradition

Kamaha'o Haumea-Thronas is a true embodiment of the Hawaiian spirit, with a deep reverence for the musical traditions passed down through generations. "I always play a lot of the same songs that I first learned – to honor whoever I learned them from, whether it be my kumu hula, or my teachers from school, or even just listening to old records of Aunty Genoa Keawe or even newer albums by Nā Palapalai, who I got to play with," he explains. This unwavering dedication to preserving the legacy of Hawaiian music is a testament to Haumea-Thronas' profound respect for his cultural heritage.

Inspiring Others to Embrace Mele Hawai'i

Haumea-Thronas firmly believes that the continuation of Hawaiian music is of utmost importance, as he laments, "I think Hawaiian music is super important because not a lot of our people do it anymore. A lot of musicians like to take to other genres that are more popular or might make them more money." However, he is determined to change this narrative, urging others to learn and embrace the mele Hawai'i. "I think everybody should just learn one or two songs that can help continue Hawaiian music," he passionately declares, setting an inspiring example for the next generation of Hawaiian music enthusiasts.

Balancing Academics and Artistry

Despite his burgeoning musical career, Haumea-Thronas remains firmly grounded in his academic pursuits. As a sophomore at Kamehameha Schools Kapālama on O'ahu, he seamlessly balances his studies with his involvement in the school's Concert Glee Club and Hawaiian Ensemble. "Everything really goes hand in hand – I think it all blends together really, really nicely," he remarks, showcasing his ability to excel in both the academic and artistic realms.

Earning Respect from Industry Veterans

Haumea-Thronas' remarkable talent and dedication have earned him the respect of seasoned performers and industry veterans. "I don't think there's really been any problem with my age because I've been singing mele Hawai'i for so long. I've gotten a lot of respect from singers and performers who have been doing this in the industry for so many years," he shares, highlighting the profound impact he has made on the Hawaiian music scene despite his young age.

Embracing the Power of Social Media

Haumea-Thronas' musical prowess has also captured the attention of the digital world, with a viral 11-second TikTok video showcasing his unique take on a Zippy's spaghetti-themed song. This unexpected viral moment has brought him even more recognition, with the local restaurant chain even delivering a cake with his face on it for his 15th birthday. "Walking around all the time, I'll hear, 'Oh my gosh, it's the Zippy's kid.' And that just brings so much laughter and happiness, to see that just something so small can make such a big impact," he reflects, embracing the power of social media to connect with his audience and spread the joy of Hawaiian music.

The Unwavering Support of 'Ohana

Haumea-Thronas' remarkable journey would not be possible without the unwavering support of his family. "It's just super, super awesome that they support me in what I do. And they put up with all the craziness in the music industry," he shares, acknowledging the invaluable role his 'ohana has played in his success. From purchasing equipment to driving him to gigs and gathering last-minute lei, Haumea-Thronas' family has been a constant source of encouragement and assistance, enabling him to focus on his passion for Hawaiian music.

Envisioning a Future Filled with Mele Hawai'i

As Haumea-Thronas looks to the future, his vision is clear: to continue his mission of preserving and sharing the beauty of Hawaiian music. "I hope to continue Hawaiian music, continue partnering with companies like Zippy's, and all of those awesome people and different musicians. I hope to get my music out really soon and share music, really share why mele Hawai'i is so important – sharing it on any platform I can," he declares, his eyes shining with determination and a deep-rooted love for his cultural heritage.At just 15 years old, Kamaha'o Haumea-Thronas has already left an indelible mark on the Hawaiian music scene, inspiring a new generation of artists and music enthusiasts to embrace the rich tapestry of mele Hawai'i. With his unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and unwavering commitment to preserving his cultural legacy, this young prodigy is poised to become a true ambassador of Hawaiian music, ensuring that the timeless melodies and traditions of his ancestors continue to resonate for generations to come.