Kamaka Mullen: Awards and Accolades
Kamaka Mullen’s tenure with Slack Key ‘Ohana was nothing short of extraordinary. As the band’s primary songwriter and cultural anchor, Kamaka infused each song with the soul of Hawaiian tradition, blending authenticity with contemporary artistry. The impact of this dedication was recognized with numerous prestigious awards and nominations, solidifying Slack Key ‘Ohana as one of the most celebrated groups in Hawaiian music during Kamaka’s time with the band.
Awards and Honors
Naa Hookuu Hanohano Awards
Often referred to as the “Grammys of Hawaiian Music,” the Naa Hookuu Hanohano Awards are a testament to the excellence of Hawaiian music. During Kamaka’s time with Slack Key ‘Ohana, the band achieved:
•Hawaiian Music Video of the Year (Nomination) – “Nahenahe Ka Leo o Ka Wahine U’i” Written by Kamaka Mullen- 2024
Grammy Awards
Under Kamaka’s creative leadership, Slack Key ‘Ohana earned:
•On The Ballot for Best Regional Roots Album – “Hawaiian Cowboy”- 2025
•On The Ballot for Best Recording Package – “Hawaiian Cowboy”- 2025
•On The Ballot for Best Regional Roots Album – “Live at Tiki Oasis”- 2024
San Diego Music Awards:
•Best World Music Song- “Nahenahe Ka Leo o Ka Wahine U’i” Written by Kamaka Mullen in 5-7-2019. Awarded Year of- 2024
•Best World Music Album -“Slack Key ‘Ohana”- 2022
•Best New Artist (Nomination)-Slack Key ‘Ohana- 2022
iTunes Charts:
•Debut #1 on iTune Worldwide Music Charts- “Hawaiian Cowboy”- 2024
•Debut #1 on iTunes Worldwide Music Charts- “Live At Tiki ‘Oasis”- 2023
•Debut #2 on iTune Worldwide Music Charts- “Slack Key ‘Ohana”- Self Titled- 2022
E Hula Mau: A Personal Journey for Kamaka Mullen
For Kamaka Mullen, E Hula Mau is more than just a celebration of Hawaiian culture—it represents the essence of who they are as an artist and cultural steward. As Southern California’s premier Hawaiian hula and chant competition, the festival provided Kamaka with an opportunity to connect with others passionate about perpetuating Hawaiian traditions.
Through performances and participation, E Hula Mau became a space where Kamaka could honor their kuupuna (ancestors), share the beauty of ‘Oolelo Hawai’i, and inspire future generations to embrace their cultural roots. It remains a cornerstone of Kamaka’s artistic journey, embodying the values of aloha, excellence, and resilience that define their approach to Hawaiian music and storytelling.
E Hula Mau Awards:
•Kaane Division- 2nd Place- Group Kahiko- 2019
•Kaane Division- 3rd Place- Group ‘Auana- 2019
•’Iwa’Iwa Lei Award- 2019
At E Hula Mau, the prestigious ‘Iwa’iwa Lei Award is presented to recognize outstanding artistry and cultural excellence. This award honors exceptional contributions to Hawaiian culture through hula, chant, and music, embodying the spirit of aloha and the perpetuation of Hawaiian traditions. It is a highly coveted accolade within the E Hula Mau community, celebrating dedication and authenticity in preserving Hawaiian heritage.
•’Oolelo Hawai’i Award. (Hawaiian Language Award)- 2019
It is presented to honor participants who demonstrate exceptional fluency, accuracy, and artistry in the use of the Hawaiian language during their performances. This award celebrates the vital role of ‘Oolelo Hawai’i in perpetuating the cultural integrity and traditions of Hawai’i.
Other Distinctions
•Hawaiian Cultural Leadership Award – Honoring Kamaka’s dedication to preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture through music and storytelling.
•Recognition by multiple Hawaiian music festivals for outstanding contributions to slack key guitar and Hawaiian composition.
Cultural and Musical Impact
Kamaka’s ability to weave traditional Hawaiian values into modern compositions brought Slack Key ‘Ohana widespread acclaim. Songs like “Nahenahe Ka Leo o Ka Wahine U’i” and “Ku’u Lei Nani Mai ‘Oe”, written and arranged by Kamaka Mullen, became instant classics, celebrated for their depth, authenticity, and timeless beauty.
Kamaka’s influence extended beyond the band, inspiring a new generation of Hawaiian musicians to embrace their cultural roots while reaching for broader audiences.
This page is a reflection of Kamaka Mullen’s unwavering dedication to Hawaiian music and culture during their time with Slack Key ‘Ohana. For Kamaka, music is more than entertainment—it is a profound connection to heritage, storytelling, and the heartbeat of Hawai’i.