Kahakuloa

The mele, “Kahakuloa”, describes a remote small village in West Maui that remains fairly isolated from the rest of the island. The place name is sometimes translated as “the tall chief” however other sources say that rather than being “tall” the chief was actually “far away” living in some other distant district of Maui isle. Kahakuloa is known for its lōʻī kalo, heiau, and as a favorite cliff diving spot for the Maui chief, Kahekili.

This mele has only one verse and a chorus but we will learn each of them with Pūʻili as well as with kuhi lima (hand motions). The version of the music that we will use is modeled after a recording by the group “Nā Leo Pilimehana” which was first released in 2002. While the composer of this mele is unknown, this traditional tune is a familiar one with a modern flair.