Don Ho

Don Ho was a renowned Hawaiian musician and entertainer who gained international recognition for his charismatic stage presence and distinctive voice. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, United States, he was exposed to the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii, which would later influence his music style, often compared to that of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Don Ho's music career was shaped by his experiences performing at various venues, including the famous Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki, where he was discovered by Kimo McVay, a local radio and television personality. He was also influenced by other notable musicians, such as Elvis Presley and Louis Armstrong.

Early Life and Career

Don Ho was born to Emily Leimaile Silva and James Ah You Ho, a Chinese American family, and grew up in a musical environment, with his mother being a hula dancer and his father a singer and ukulele player. He attended Punahou School in Honolulu, where he developed his interest in music, particularly jazz and blues, inspired by artists like Duke Ellington and Count Basie. After serving in the United States Air Force, Don Ho began performing at local venues, including the Royal Hawaiian Center and the Hawaii Theatre, alongside other notable musicians, such as Al Jolson and Bing Crosby. His early career was also influenced by his friendship with Harry Owens, a famous bandleader and composer, who wrote the popular song "Hawaiian War Chant".

Music Career

Don Ho's music career spanned over five decades, during which he released numerous albums, including Don Ho Show, The Don Ho Show, and With All My Love, featuring popular songs like Ain't No Big Thing, I'll Remember You, and Pearly Shells. His music style was a unique blend of traditional Hawaiian music, pop music, and jazz, which appealed to a wide audience, including fans of Tony Bennett and Perry Como. He performed at various venues, including the Carnegie Hall in New York City, the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, and the Sydney Opera House in Australia, sharing the stage with notable musicians, such as Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello. Don Ho's music was also featured in several films and television shows, including The Andy Williams Show and The Ed Sullivan Show, alongside other famous performers, like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

Television and Film Appearances

Don Ho made numerous television and film appearances, including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, The Mike Douglas Show, and Hawaii Five-O, a popular CBS television series that featured his music and showcased the beauty of Hawaii. He also appeared in films like Aloha Paradise and Don Ho: Live in Waikiki, which highlighted his charismatic stage presence and entertaining personality, often compared to that of Bob Hope and Dean Martin. Don Ho's television appearances were often alongside other notable celebrities, such as Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and The Beach Boys, and he was a frequent guest on The Merv Griffin Show and The Carol Burnett Show. His film and television appearances helped to promote Hawaiian tourism and introduce Hawaiian culture to a global audience, much like the Hula Bowl and the Merrie Monarch Festival.

Personal Life

Don Ho was married to Melva May Kolokea Wong and had six children, including Don Ho Jr. and Hoku Ho, who followed in his footsteps and became musicians. He was known for his charismatic personality and his love of Hawaii and its culture, which he promoted through his music and performances. Don Ho was also a successful entrepreneur and owned several businesses, including a restaurant and a nightclub, in Waikiki, where he often performed and hosted other notable musicians, such as Nat King Cole and Sammy Davis Jr.. He was a close friend of Hawaiian politician Daniel Inouye and supported various charitable organizations, including the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army.

Legacy

Don Ho's legacy continues to be celebrated in Hawaii and around the world, with his music and performances remaining popular to this day, much like those of Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra. He was awarded numerous honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a Grammy Award nomination, and was inducted into the Hawaii Music Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame. Don Ho's impact on Hawaiian music and Hawaiian culture is still felt, and he remains an iconic figure in the entertainment industry, inspiring new generations of musicians, including Israel Kamakawiwo'ole and Jason Mraz. His music and legacy continue to be celebrated through various events and festivals, including the Merrie Monarch Festival and the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii and its people, including notable figures like Duke Kahanamoku and Queen Liliuokalani. Category:American musicians