Shem Kahawaii

Shem Kahawaii is a Maui-born musician known for his soulful blend of slack key guitar, and contemporary Hawaiian sound. Rooted in the traditions he grew up with, Shem brings a fresh and heartfelt energy to every stage he steps on. His music honors the kupuna who shaped him while uplifting the next generation of Hawaiian artists.

With years of performing across Maui’s live music scene, Shem has become a trusted voice and a natural storyteller. His style reflects island life—warm, grounded, and filled with aloha. 

 In 2025, he stepped into a new chapter as the host of the legendary Slack Key Show, carrying forward a 22-year legacy built by Grammy-winner George Kahumoku Jr. Shem now hosts the show with humility and vision, spotlighting emerging ‘ukulele and slack key talent across Hawai‘i.

Whether he’s sharing classic mele or original compositions, Shem Kahawaii plays from the heart, inviting listeners into the beauty, resilience, and rhythm of Maui.

From childhood, Hawaiian music has always been a foundation in Shem’s ʻohana, shaping his connection to culture, sound, and storytelling. With guidance from respected artist and friend Kevin Brown, Shem was welcomed into the tradition of kīhoʻalu, continuing the craft with purpose and heart. As a student, he performed regularly at Kaʻahumanu Shopping Center with his original group, Kualoa, gaining early experience and confidence on stage. I ka wā ma mua, I ka wā ma hope—the future is rooted in the past. In honor of our kupuna, Shem remains dedicated to perpetuating Hawaiian music, culture, and aloha

Perpetuation: 
Shem remains committed to the perpetuation of kīhoʻalu and Hawaiian music by encouraging others, both young and old, to continue the journey of learning, playing, and honoring this cherished tradition. Through mentorship, performance, and cultural connection, he helps ensure that the sounds and stories of Hawaiian music live on for future generations. Mai Poina ʻOle—lost, but never forgotten—serves as a reminder that our music, culture, and ʻike remain alive through those who choose to carry them forward.
Inspirations: 
Artists such as, Ledward Kaʻapana, Sonny Lim, Kevin Brown, and Jeff Peterson, along with many other influential musicians, have shaped Shem into the artist he is today. Their music, mentorship, and dedication to Hawaiian tradition inspired him to find his own calling and step forward as a cultural torchbearer. Through their influence, Shem now proudly carries on the legacy as the current host of the Hawaiian Slack Key Show, with the humble blessings of master musician George Kahumoku Jr., honoring the past while guiding the future of Hawaiian music.