Feature: Slack Key 'Ohana Decodes ‘Hawaiian Cowboy’
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind 'Hawaiian Cowboy' and the story it tells?
Kamaka Mullen: We were inspired by the fact that Hawaiian Slack Key Music originated from the Hawaiian Cowboys known as Paniolo. So we had an idea, What if Johnny Cash was born in Hawaiʻi? What would that sound like?
What was your favorite moment in making the music video?
My favorite part was when we did the low lighting scene of me singing the lyrics. I felt uncomfortable with just me and Brian in a small room with low lighting, but I always told myself you need to push out of your comfort zone to succeed. It took like 5 mins to shoot, and was relatively painless.
Which song(s) from 'Hawaiian Cowboy' do you think best represents your artistic vision?
I think “Nahenahe Ka Leo o Ka Wahine Uʻi” is the best representation of my artistic vision. I honestly donʻt know if I can come up with another song like it again even if I tried. But I wish all my songs could be equally as emotional.
What has been the most memorable experience or achievement in your music career so far?
My most memorable achievement is winning an award for Best World Music Album in the 2022 San Diego Music Awards. And even more so winning Best World Music Song in the 2024 San Diego Music Awards. Best World Music Song hit me hard because it was a song I wrote. It is a confirmation that I am a good songwriter. And the best songwriting achievement you can win in San Diego.
Can you share a memorable experience from a collaboration that enriched your music?
I loved the collaboration with Brittni Paiva. She took a song I wrote and turned it into something uniquely Brittni. I just hope our fans love it as much as we do.