We had our Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts Board of Governors retreat this past weekend at the Ala Moana Hotel. It was a long and fruitful time.
We selected the 2009 Lifetime Achievement recipients, enacted policy changes in the By-Laws, did a whole bunch of strategic planning for the future, and addressed a multitude of other issues. I am very hopeful that what we are doing today will affect future generations of music industry people in a positive way.
I performed at the 26th Annual Slack Key Festival this past Sunday at the Kapi‘olani Park bandstand. I have been working as stage manager for the statewide event for the past two years, thanks to promoter Milton Lau. This year I was invited to perform with my friend Stephen Inglis on his set. It was so nice of him to let me sit in on his set and I even got to sing one of my songs, Kaleouwaloikapono, from my upcoming CD.
Stephen is the guitarist on my CD, playing both electric, as well as acoustic guitars. What a great talent.
I am going back into the studio this coming week to do my vocals and guitar work for my upcoming contemporary CD. I am still excited and feel that there are several songs that could get some airplay.
I will keep you updated as I go. Soon Iʻll start to post my rough mixes on my myspace page.
At the Kauai Music Festival, I met and befriended Jeff Dayton. This gentleman from Nashville is truly an island boy. What a pleasure it was to hang with him. At first, you think this guy is just a really nice tourist. By the end of the week, you find that this guy is a powerhouse of dynamic talent and just marvel at his craft. What a privilege!
I was so fortunate to meet Cary Valentine, an incredible percussionist with a passion for helping school children. He attended both of my workshops at the Kauai Music Festival. We had so much fun and energy up on stage. I wish it didnʻt have to stop.
I am having such a wonderful experience at the Kaua‘i Music Festival. I taught two workshops and attended several others during the week. I got so much more than I ever asked for. There were a lot of laughing and a lot of crying. I can honestly say that I have found some great inspirations to place in my book.