The Hilo One (pronounced Oh-Neh, not One) is a local Big Island band with a ton of history:
Russell Jay Keakealani Mauga, was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii. After graduating from Hilo High School in 1984, he teamed up with his older brother, John, Walter Tavares, and cousin Nolan Ha'o, to found & form the 3-time Na Hoku Hanohano
Award nominated group, Ho'aikane. After 4 albums and many successes, Mauga left in 1990 and pursued a solo career, while the group continued to its own stardom.
In 1996, Russell recorded his first solo album under Shell Records entitled, "He Kakahiaka Nani E (A Beautiful Morning)," which was praised for its vibrant Big Island styling of slack key, and it's fresh interpretation of pop covers. In 2003, Russell released his second solo masterpiece under his own label, Kalo Music Productions LLP, entitled "Here I Am," which featured four original songs, six covers and featured artists such as, Ke'ala Kawa'auhau of Sudden Rush, Pomai Longakit, Jamin Wong, and Bruddah Waltah Aipolani. Recording original and traditional compositions has by far, expanded Russell's repertoire to almost any genre you can think of from Hawaiian contemporary to Country music. (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hilo-One/139026482799492)
Photographing the Hilo One band at the Keauhou Village Shopping Center is my 21st assignment working for the center. I've had the opportunity to photograph dozens of legendary Hawaiian bands and artists. I'm happy for the opportunity but most of all I'm impressed with the amount of talent that Hawaiian music has some local and some from the neighbor islands.
I hope you enjoy the opening hula halau and the images of the Hilo One band.
