Keilana Mokulehua

4.25.22

"My name is Keilana Kealoha Mokulehua and I am a 27 year old R&B/Soul artist born and raised in Honolulu, HI. I grew up as a "mix plate" kid, my mom is Filipino Chinese and my dad is Samoan Hawaiian. Over time, I have learned to embrace all the cultures and facets that make me, me. One thing I look back on and am so grateful for is that my parents really encouraged and fostered my creativity and musicality. When I first picked up an instrument I fell in love with it, but I lacked the confidence that I could be something. My parents always taught me the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance and it has helped me grow into the musician I am today. I have been devoting my career and life to music for over 10+ years and my aspiration is to inspire more Polynesian people to share their stories with the world. Kanaka have perpetuated our culture for generations through the act of storytelling and mele. These stories that our ancestors have passed down unto us were once present times to those that were brave enough to share their stories... and we must continue perpetuating the art of storytelling by celebrating self-expression through various forms of art. My medium is music, and my mission is: Create to connect, Connect to inspire.


My favorite Polynesian foods are Koko Alaisa (Samoan Cocoa Rice) and Faʻapapa (Coconut Bread). My grandma Uo (dadʻs mom) would make that for us growing up and it brings me so much comfort and nostalgia. I hope to learn her recipes and pass it down to my keiki one day."

“For the longest time I always fought with a false belief that following a path of music would equal hardship. I used to be embarrassed to say "I am a musician" because often with that, would come the follow up of "what else do you do for work full-time?" and it used to make me uncomfortable because I would start doubting how far I could go with my passion. But one thing that I held onto was that there HAD to be more out there than what is known to most. And so, I dedicated my studies to educating myself on all of the avenues in music. I graduated from UH Manoa in 2016 and received my BA in music, studying everything from Music Theory to Opera, to Theatre to Vocal Pedagogy (how the voice works). I worked as a gigging musician and performed in so many different establishments over the span of 8 years, while teaching students music at Kamehameha Schools. I discovered the realm of songwriting and writing music for Film & TV. I got to experience collaborating with LA and NYC songwriters and even wrote a song with Kenny Loggins (Footloose and Dannys Song). I taught a songwriting course at UH West Oahu and curated music programs for private companies. I have been blessed with so many music opportunities and experiences and I realized there is SO much room and a need for music in this world. There is a stigma around choosing a career path in music just because there is a lack of knowledge. This lack of knowledge comes from the lack of representation or Polynesian people advocating and speaking up about these opportunities. We need more Polynesian songwriters, female musicians, and educators that encourage kids to not put themselves into boxes when it comes to what avenues can be pursued in music. Knowledge is power, and if you truly love something, you will find a way to not only fulfill your dream and aspirations but you will come to discover the pursuit will allow you to fill the cups of others, inspiring them to chase their dreams as well.”


“Being Polynesian allows me to have a different perspective on life, faith, and identity. Being Hawaiian and Samoan, you are rooted in the importance of family. Everything I do is to bring honor to my parents, grandparents, and ancestors, but to also cultivate a bright future for my future kin. You also have a connection and deeper appreciation for ʻĀina, which to me, is unconditional love and a direct representation of the love that God has for all of us.”


“My biggest piece of advice would be to dream big. Do not feel like you canʻt do or be someone that can impact the world. Just look at our kūpuna and what our people were able to accomplish: We were voyagers of the great Pacific, and managed to hone in on our skills, have faith in Ke Akua, and forge a path towards a paradise that is cherished by many around the world. You are the next generation of storytellers and innovative kanaka that will forge the next pathway for our people. So stand tall, be proud, and share your story.”

So stand tall, be proud, and share your story"