Kalani Pe‘a, the Filipino-Hawaiian artist from Maui, has once again made history, clinching his fourth Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music Album with Kuini. This victory, announced during the 67th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, continues his perfect record in the category—having previously won in 2017, 2019, and 2022.
Honoring Filipino Roots in Kuini
While Pe‘a is deeply connected to his Hawaiian heritage, his Filipino roots play a significant role in shaping both his music and his identity. Kuini, meaning "Queen" in Hawaiian, is a celebration of the matrilineal strength within Hawaiian culture, but also a reflection of the values Pe‘a learned from his Filipino family. Growing up in a household where both Filipino and Hawaiian traditions were embraced, Pe‘a infuses his music with a unique blend of influences.
The album, which features tracks he wrote or co-wrote, showcases his deep respect for his heritage, with a focus on family, resilience, and love. Collaborations with musicians like Jake Shimabukuro and Tiana Nonosina Liufau further highlight Pe‘a’s ability to bridge cultures through his art.
A Tribute to Filipino and Hawaiian Matriarchs
In his Grammy acceptance speech, Pe‘a made a special point of honoring the women who shaped his life, from his Filipino mother to his Hawaiian grandmothers. He dedicated his win to these matriarchs, acknowledging their wisdom and strength. “Kuini means ‘queen,’” he said, emphasizing the importance of women in his life and culture. His tribute reflects the dual influence of his Filipino and Hawaiian backgrounds, both of which are rooted in deep respect for family and community.
Healing Through Music
Pe‘a’s Grammy win also comes at a time when his home island of Maui is recovering from the devastation caused by wildfires. He expressed solidarity with those affected, stating, “We live on Maui. We dealt with the wildfires. We can relate, and we’re here to bring healing to the world.”
