My heart is pounding, anticipating the release of my third solo project entitled “`Ā”. I have a week to go and I feel kinda like Iʻve been keeping this big secret and everyoneʻs about to find out what it is. The only people who have heard this new recording besides Iolani, Chaz and Sha-Lei are my brother Rhett and well, my producer Dave Tucciarone. I guess it is like a secret.
”`Ā” means to sparkle, like a gem. Iʻm not gonna lie…I love the bling. It makes me sing! Thatʻs not why I named this project “`Ā”. For my first recording endeavor, I wanted a name that would catch a few eyes and turn a few heads, hoping to lure a few ears. “`Ē” encompassed all of my feelings and emotions and so it was destiny. It truly was strange, weird and wonderful to say the least.
Of course people asked if Iʻd go through the entire vowels and originally I said no. Then began the process of gathering songs and ideas for project number two and I found myself floundering, trying to find myself amidst the expectations of my own expectations. And so “`Ī” was born. The title exhibits power and glory and yet what i was trying to say was that this was my best just for right now. And it was.
I knew once I went there with the second vowel, it was gonna be tough to not do a third. (I promise though, this is the last in the one letter title series.) Manu Boyd actually suggested `ā and I immediately fell for it. To sparkle…who wouldnʻt love it? I have to admit, that like a diamond this project was in the rough. The original rock looked nothing special. But with the help of so many incredibly talented people each adding their own faceting, itʻs ready to hit the lights. There will be many other bobbles in the jewelry case. I hope this one will catch your eyes, turn your head and once more…lure your ears.
We are each born with special gifts. May I compare them to rocks? When first discovered, they are rough, dirty and dull. We try wiping them on our sleeve hoping to expose a precious stone but it discloses no immediate beauty. Often times, we just add it to a collection of long forgotten treasures we’ve found on other adventures. But, if we take the time to clean and buff it smooth, it begins to reveal it’s inner grandeur. Every stone has inclusions, tiny imperfections within, but a steady, patient hand can carve around these creating magnificence. Every cut creates a facet, a table for light to dance upon. And when the artist’s job is complete, it is a dazzling sight. The once seemingly worthless rock is now a spectacular gem. —-Natalie Ai Kamauu
Iʻm there in the center. Can you see me? The stars of this show were the students of Kapolei High Schoolʻs Symphonic Band.
I love opportunities that test my abilities…singing with a band this size was intimidating! In the end it was amazing to say the very least. Mahalo to Daryl Agena for allowing me to participate.
Heads up…next yearʻs guest is Weldon Kekauoha!
What a splendid way to celebrate our momʻs…and she doesnʻt even have to cook! Enjoy great Hawaiian entertainment at Hawai`is biggest Motherʻs Day Celebration. Get your tickets soon…they are hot, hot hot!!