South Pacific Country music is coming to the mainland. Hawaiian Country artist Maoli (Mah-oh-lee, meaning “native”) has signed with ONErpm and Huff Co., who formed a joint venture last year. “I am so grateful to be part of the ONErpm/Huff Co. family. They get my vision and who I am and I’m excited about what’s to come” states Maoli.Hawaiian cowboys go back many generations. When cattle were first sent to the island, no one there had any idea how to care for them. Eventually, the king imported vaqueros from Mexico to teach the Hawaiians how to be cowboys.
Maoli was raised by cowboys and has lived in the Hawaiian countryside his entire life. His lifestyle has guided his music, perhaps best described as island-influenced country. Maoli has amassed a dedicated fan base throughout the Pacific Rim and Caribbean and is already popular on the West Coast. Now he’s ready to share his brand of Country music with the rest of the mainland. The Last Sip of Summer Tour kicks off today in New Zealand/Australia before a 25+ state, coast-to-coast tour of the Pacific Northwest, Mideast, East Coast, Southwest and Canada, including a stop in Nashville. His new album of the same name will be released on June 27th."The blending of an island sound with country music has built a tremendous fan base,” says Ryan Cunningham, A&R Country Music, ONErpm Nashville. “We're truly captivated and thrilled to be a part of sharing new music with a global audience."
Nashville producers Dann and David Huff (Huff Co.) produced the upcoming album. “When I initially heard Maoli, my first words were ‘where and when can I meet him?’” shares David Huff. “I was immediately drawn in by his vocals, along with the native sound combined with old-school Country.” Once they were in the studio, “I learned how authentic Maoli’s love, and knowledge of country legends was. I can’t wait for the world to experience this amazing artist!”
Dann Huff adds, “It’s rare when you encounter an artist who brings a new take to Country music. Maoli is definitely that artist with his distinct vocals, the crisp harmonies, and always the presence of reggae and a Pacific Rim musicality. All of that together provides an interesting and fresh look at country music.”
