I made it through many a homesick night in college, listening to Hapa's self entitled, then newly released debut album, dreaming of one day returning to my home in the islands. So naturally, i was sad to hear that this dynamic duo of Barry Flanagan and Keli'i Kaneali'i had split up in 2001 to pursue their solo careers.
Fast forward, 7 years...
While dining at our favorite Mediterranean Restaurant, Saffron, on Kauai, on a recent planning trip to Kauai for an upcoming north shore wedding, we were thrilled to discover that the restaurant had amazing live entertainment to serenade the night away.
Always on the hunt for amazing entertainers to share with clients for wedding entertainment, I elbowed one of my event managers and urged her to go get his name and number. She came back with a cocktail napkin, name and number scribbled in black ink. It read: Keli'i Kaneali'i. i couldn't believe my eyes!
It was quite serendipitous to find him there on Kauai, as one of our Kauai brides had just selected Hapa's Lei Pikake to accompany her down the aisle. We were thrilled to convince Keli'i to come and sing it for this special couple. What a perfect Hawaiian song that speaks of beauty, true love and romance for a ceremony processional. The guests all agreed that hearing Keli'i's remarkable voice sing his own song acapella as the bride approached her soon to be husband gave everyone a delightful chill.
We are glad we found you, Keli'i!
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