Alan Akaka

Alan Akaka is a legendary Hawaiian steel guitarist, educator, and cultural ambassador, deeply rooted in a distinguished family tradition of music. Guided by his father, former U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka–former director of the renowned Kawaiaha'o Church Choir–Alan developed his exceptional talent through kanikapila (jam sessions) and formal music education at Kamehameha Schools and the University of Hawai‘i.

As an enthusiastic educator, Alan established and directed the Kamehameha Middle School Nā ‘Ōpio Singers and Hawaiian Ensemble. He successfully led the Kamehameha Performing Arts Academy for 16 years and founded Ke Kula Mele Hawai‘i School of Hawaiian Music in 2009. This institution continues to shape and inspire the next generation of steel guitarists and practitioners of traditional Hawaiian music.

Alan has collaborated with some of the most iconic artists in the industry, including Genoa Keawe, Nina Keali‘iwahamana, Benny Kalama, Sonny Kamahele, Ed Kenney, Gary Aiko, Karen Keawehawai‘i, Kuana Torres Kahale, and Raiatea Helm. He has also worked with international acts, such as Sweden's Simons, Mahina Stars, and other esteemed Japanese artists and ensembles.

His talent has brought him recognition as a finalist for his album "How D'ya Do" (featuring The Islanders in 1987) and for his acclaimed solo album, Simply Steel (2010).

For over two decades, Alan led "The Islanders" at Halekulani's iconic House Without A Key and enjoyed a prominent residency at the Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort.

His extensive travels around the globe showcase his expertise, as he conducts workshops on Hawaiian music and the steel guitar. Notable achievements include being honored as a guest soloist at the International Steel Guitar Convention in St. Louis, the Aloha International Steel Guitar Club in Winchester, Indiana, and the Hawaiian Steel Guitar Association in Illinois and California, as well as the Austin Steel Guitar Festival in Texas. He has also received accolades at the India International Guitar Festival in Kolkata.

In recognition of his significant contributions to Hawaiian music and culture, Alan was inducted into the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame in 2012 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hawai‘i Academy of Recording Arts in 2025. His legacy as a key figure in Hawaiian music is firmly established and continues to inspire others.