Ei Nei, look at us.
Hui! Ei Nei is composed of Dane Fujiwara (Wailuku), Grant Kono (Oneawa), and Ekolu Chang (Kāne`ohe). After having been on their own paths as musicians for some time with various individual accolades, Ei Nei began their musical journey together in 2016. In 2017, this new trio captured the title at the Made in Hawai‘i Kani Ka Pila Grille Talent Search. At the end of 2019, Ei Nei released their debut album Hui! debuting #1 on the iTunes World Chart. In 2020, they garnered several Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award nominations and won the 2020 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award as the MOST PROMISING ARTIST. Their 2021 release of Dear Lāna‘i was recently nominated for Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award for Single of the Year. Together, they feature a smooth vocal blend with rich harmonies and a refreshing glimpse into the traditional past with their sights set on the future of Hawaiian music.
Dane Fujiwara
Dane was born and raised in Wailuku, Maui and was fortunate enough to attend Kamehameha Schools Kapālama. He accredits his love for all things Hawaiian, especially mele Hawaiʻi to his teachers. When he is not playing music, he teaches math at his alma mater.
He lālā wau no kuʻu kumu.
DANE FUJIWARA
Grant Kono
GRANT KONO
Until 2008, Grant called California home. Grant credits his dad for helping to find his passion for Hawaiian music at such a young age. Upon his family's return to Hawaiʻi, he was immersed in the culture, language, and music native to our home. Although music is his first love, Grant can usually be found frolicking in the waves all around Oʻahu.
ʻAʻole pau ka ʻike i ka hālau hoʻokahi.
'Ekolu Chang
Daneʻs bio here.
ʻEKOLU CHANG
ʻEkolu resides in his Kāneʻohe home with his loving family. Since his time at Kapālama, he has been playing traditional Hawaiian music in the trio fashion. With continued guidance, ʻEkolu aims to preserve our traditions through mele Hawaiʻi for future generations. Allowing the past to be the foundation for his future, ʻEkolu continues to expand his horizons.
I ka wā ma mua, ka wā ma hope.