Mākaha Sons

The Mākaha Sons of Ni‘ihau are a popular Hawaiian musical group. They originated on the leeward (kona or westerly) side of Oahu. In 1976, the Mākaha Sons of Ni‘ihau began their professional career with five members, as an opening act in a small nightclub known as "Uptown Yokos." The group has reorganized several times, with some members seeking other professional careers. After the deaths of the Kamakawiwoʻole brothers, Skippy and internationally known Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, the remaining members dropped the "of Niihau" and now are known as the Makaha Sons, a trio of singers consisting of Louis "Moon" Kauakahi on 6-string guitar, John Koko (now deceased, 6/25/12, age 51) on upright acoustic bass and Jerome Koko on 12-string guitar.

The Mākaha Sons of Niihau and the Makaha Sons have released 21 CDs, and produced a DVD on their own record label. They have won Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards and Hawaii Music Awards. They produce their own signature concert, "Take a Walk in the Country," in Hawaii each year. They produce and promote young artists in traditional Hawaiian music.

In commemoration of the group’s 30th anniversary, the Sons reflect back to the times and places they have had the privilege and honor to have been a part of. Their performances have taken them to such prestigious places as Carnegie Hall in New York City, Washington, D. C., and in Hawaii, with performances for both the President and Vice-President of the United States. They have also appeared on the movie, North Shore and have been featured guests on shows as The Captain and Tennille Show and NBC's Today Show with Bryant Gumbel and Katie Couric. Locally they have appeared on shows such as Island Music, Island Heart and Emme’s Island Moments, and have accompanied American musician Kenny Loggins for his CD release party at Ala Moana Center. The Makaha Sons formed the Makaha Sons Foundation in 2004, which supports variety of organizations, funding some of Hawaii’s police officers, funding families afflicted with illnesses, and providing scholarships each year to a selected high school senior.

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