I am Kamaka Mullen, and I am a Hawaiian Slack Key Guitarist performing in the San Diego area.  I played violin and viola since I was 9 years old, and I gravitated towards guitar freshman year in High School (Year 2000).  I started out playing classic rock, punk, reggae, classical guitar, jazz, and found my new true love in Hawaiian music.

I learned how to play Hawaiian slack key guitar from my Kumu (teacher) Patrick Landeza in 2008.  He inspired me to become the musician I am today.  I have also taken workshops with Slack Key Masters Cyril Pahinui, George Kuo, John Keawe, and Dennis Kamakahi.  For many years I have also learned several different guitar techiques and styles from Robert Andrew Szajkowski .  In august 2010 I have had the privilege of performing at the Slack Key Festival in Kapiolani Park, Waikiki, O’ahu Hawai’i with Patrick Landeza and his Haumana (students).  In 2015 I had my first opening gig for Kawika Kahiapo in Temecula California.  The following year in 2016 I had an amazing experience doing the VIP Meet and Greet session for Willie K, who actually jumped on stage with me and played accompaniment (one of the best experiences of my life).  And the next year in 2017 I had the Honor of playing for both the VIP Meet and Greet And the Opening Act for multiple Na Hoku Award winner Maunalua.  I have also performed at many restaurants, parties, weddings, and Lu’au(s).

Much like the Slack Key musicians of the older days, most of my Slack Key and Hawaiian music knowledge is self taught.  I learned how to play ‘Ukulele on my own, but nothing gives me more joy than playing Slack Key Guitar.  Since being a child I have always written new music.  I have written songs for Slack Key, ‘Ukulele, and vocals in both the Hawaiian and English languages.  I learned some of the Hawaiian language from the Kumu Michael E.Malulani K.Odegaard who has started the H2O Hawaiian Bilingual movement.

Now I have my own Hawaiian Slack Key album titled Ke Au Hou, which is now available.  And in 2013 I released my Second album “Me Ke Aloha” which I dedicated to my Niece Kealoha.  I have not released a new album for years as I have been concentrating on performing, teaching and expanding my repertoire.  But I am compelled to produce yet another well awaited album soon.  I used perform weekly gigs at Kaisen Sushi in Oceanside, California on Tuesday nights from 6:30-9:00pm.  But as the Sounthern California Slack Key Society disbanded I shortly stopped performing at Kaisen Sushi.  Many great memories were formed at this restaurant and relationships were formed with our regulars, such as, former San Diego Charger, Jr Seau.

I wish to pass on my knowledge in Slack Key (Kiho’Alu) by giving lessons.  This is such a beautiful style of music that I want to pass on.  And I do not want it to die with me.  So that is why I feel a need to reach out to as many students who are willing to learn Slack Key, so this music can spread like a wildfire.  My current students have progressed quickly and have been a great joy for me to teach.  Feel free to contact me about any questions concerning slack key Lessons in Oceanside or booking performances.