ABOUT MAOLI

Now breaking into the mainstream with a unique mix of island reggae and country soul, Hawaiian-born rising star Maoli seeks to put his people on the map like they've never been before.

The golden-voiced native of upcountry Maui boasts nine independent albums and over half a billion global streams, with a nearly 15-year recording and touring career making him a fixture across the Pacific islands and beyond. Inspired by traditional Hawaiian music - the believe-it-or-not birthplace of steel guitar - plus rock, reggae and the country music of artists like Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and George Strait, Maoli's early island pop and roots-reggae sound helped spread his rangy, sand-and-soul vocal across Polynesia to the American West Coast, and as far east as Texas. It was there in 2018 that the singer-songwriter rediscovered his country roots, turned on to the similarities between his music and modern country - from the swaying melodies and solid rhythms to the tradition of simple-life storytelling.

Now carrying the pride of his people across the globe, his unique Hawaiian-country sound has driven a series of innovative albums and viral singles, including emotionally-charged covers of hits like Brett Young's "Mercy" (18+ million Spotify streams) and "In Case You Didn't Know" (10+ million Spotify streams).

Now, Maoli has teamed up with hit producers Dann and David Huff to further bridge the gap between island soul and country tradition. The new album Last Sip of Summer is out now.