Hawaiian Mele: The Musical Legacy of Reichel
The rich tradition of mele (Hawaiian music and chant) is a cornerstone of Pacific culture, blending storytelling, spirituality, and rhythmic artistry. Among the modern masters of this craft is Reichel, an artist whose career bridges the gap between ancient traditions and contemporary appeal, bringing the sounds of the islands to a global audience.
Foundations in Hula and Heritage
Reichel's journey began with a deep immersion in the physical and vocal arts of Hawaii. He studied under esteemed Kumu hula (dance instructors and choreographers), specifically Pekelo Day and Pualani Kanaka ʻole Kanahele. The latter is the daughter of the renowned Hawaiian scholar and kumu hula, "Aunty" Edith Kanakaʻole.
Driven by a passion for preservation and performance, Reichel founded his own hālau hula (Hawaiian dance school) at the age of 18, shortly after graduating from Lahainaluna High School. Originally named Halau hula o ka Makani Wili Makaha o Kaua ʻ ula, the school is now known as Halau Ke ʻalaokamaile.
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Rise to Musical Superstardom
In 1994, at age 32, Reichel transitioned into the recording industry by releasing Kawaipunahele through his own label, Punahele Productions. This collection of traditional and contemporary Hawaiian music launched his career as a superstar. He solidified his position at the top of the industry with a series of successful albums, including Lei Hali ʻa (1995), E O Mai (1997), and Melelana (1999).
His influence extended into curated collections, as he was featured in the anthology albums Pride of Punahele (1998) and Pride of Punahele 2 (2003).
Critical Acclaim and Award Recognition
Reichel's work has been consistently recognized by the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, which serve as Hawaii's regional equivalent to the Grammy Awards. In 2004, his 2003 album Ke'alaokamaile won four major honors: Male Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, Hawaiian Album of the Year, and Song of the Year. This project also earned a Grammy nomination for Best Hawaiian Music Album.
His success continued into the next decade. At the 38th annual Na Hoku Hanohano Awards in 2015, his album Kawaiokalena won five top awards, including Entertainer of the Year and Hawaiian Language Songwriting and Performance. Kawaiokalena also received a Grammy nomination in the Best Regional Roots Music Album category.
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Musical Style and Performance
Reichel's artistic approach is characterized by versatility. While he often performs with a core ensemble of guitar, bass, and ukulele, he frequently incorporates diverse instrumentation. This can range from Western string quartets (violin, viola, and cello) to traditional Hawaiian instruments used prior to 1778.
His vocal performances are a blend of Hawaiian language chanting and singing in both English and Hawaiian. On stage, Reichel integrates his musicality with dance, showcasing both modern and traditional forms of hula, while also performing on the guitar.
Key Facts
- Education: Trained under Kumu hula Pekelo Day and Pualani Kanaka ʻole Kanahele.
- Entrepreneurship: Founded Halau Ke ʻalaokamaile at age 18 and established Punahele Productions.
- Major Awards: Multiple Na Hoku Hanohano wins for Ke'alaokamaile and Kawaiokalena.
- Global Recognition: Two-time Grammy nominee for Best Hawaiian Music Album and Best Regional Roots Music Album.
- Artistic Range: Combines traditional chanting, English singing, guitar, and hula dance.
| Album Title | Year Released | Key Awards/Nominations |
|---|---|---|
| Ke'alaokamaile | 2003 | 4 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards; Grammy Nominee |
| Kawaiokalena | 2014 | 5 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards; Grammy Nominee |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Kumu hula that trained Reichel?
Reichel studied under Pekelo Day and Pualani Kanaka ʻole Kanahele, the daughter of the scholar "Aunty" Edith Kanakaʻole.
What is a hālau hula?
A hālau hula is a traditional Hawaiian dance school where students learn the art of hula under the guidance of a master teacher.
Which albums earned Reichel Grammy nominations?
The albums Ke'alaokamaile and Kawaiokalena were both nominated for Grammy Awards.
What instruments does Reichel use in his music?
He typically uses guitar, bass, and ukulele, but may also incorporate Western string quartets or traditional pre-1778 Hawaiian instruments.
What are the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards?
They are Hawaii's regional equivalent to the Grammy Awards, recognizing excellence in Hawaiian music and entertainment.