Hawai‘i’s first and only craft hotel, Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger, has released a genre-bending soundtrack titled “The New Sound of Waikiki” in collaboration with internationally acclaimed guitarist and composer Makana. Initially exclusive to Waikiki Beachcomber, the tracks delivered guests with a unique sensory experience upon arrival in the lobby – but are now available more broadly for others to enjoy.
Inspired by the indigenous sounds of slack key Makana grew up on, the vacation soundtrack is an effortless blend of the ancient and contemporary voices of Hawai‘i, jazz, electronic music, bluegrass and more.
“I long wondered what it might sound like to invite the ancient and contemporary voices of Hawai‘i into modern beat contexts like house, acid jazz, hip hop and trap,” said Makana, Hawaiian singer/songwriter and Beachcomber Original. “When envisioning the sound of the beautiful Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger, I was given the opportunity to explore, discover and ultimately create a new kind of music that celebrates our unique sense of place in a style that speaks to today’s world.”
Makana is a long-time resident of Waikīkī and a key member of Waikiki Beachcomber’s “Beachcomber Originals,” a collection of visionary local artists and influencers who help the brand curate experiences that manifest the spirit of Hawai‘i. As part of his commitment to the hotel, Makana and his gift of music deliver a one-of-a-kind authentic Hawaiian experience.
“As part of our ‘Originals’ platform for Waikiki Beachcomber, we’ve had the pleasure of working with craft artisans from photographers to brew masters; having Makana produce a new genre of music exclusively for this hotel was an exciting journey,” said Sean Dee, executive vice president and chief commercial officer of Outrigger Hospitality Group. “Makana’s soundtrack is the first sound our guests hear as they go up the escalator into the lobby of Waikiki Beachcomber and is a modern take on classic Hawaiian music.”
“The New Sound of Waikiki” is now available on Apple Music, Spotify and SoundCloud.
