Label: ABC-Paramount – ABC-241
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Mono
Country: US
Released: 1958
Genre: Folk, World, & Country
Style: Hawaiian, Pacific
Tracklist:
- Kawohikukapulani
- Moonlight And Shadows
- Somewhere In Hawaii
- Harbor Lights
- Sunset In Hawaii
- Hiilawe
- Red Sails In The Sunset
- Ka-Lu-A
- Blue Hawaii
- The Palm Trees Sing Aloha
- WTower Of Love
- Song Of Old Hawaii
Notes:
Alfred Apaka’s 1958 album *Hawaiian Village Nights* stands as a timeless tribute to the golden era of Hawaiian music. Known for his velvety baritone voice, Apaka was a pioneer in blending traditional Hawaiian melodies with popular music styles of the time. This album, released under ABC-Paramount, captures the essence of his artistry and showcases his ability to transport listeners to the serene landscapes of Hawaii. The album features a mix of traditional Hawaiian songs and hapa haole music, which combines Hawaiian themes with English lyrics, making it accessible to a broader audience.
The tracklist of *Hawaiian Village Nights* includes classics like “Blue Hawaii,” “Red Sails in the Sunset,” and “Hiilawe,” each performed with Apaka’s signature warmth and charisma. The album also highlights the lush orchestral arrangements conducted by Don Costa, which complement Apaka’s voice beautifully. Songs like “The Palm Trees Sing Aloha” and “Song of Old Hawaii” evoke vivid imagery of tropical sunsets and swaying palm trees, encapsulating the romantic allure of the islands. This collection not only celebrates Hawaiian culture but also serves as a bridge between traditional and modern musical expressions.
Apaka’s performances on this album were recorded at the Tapa Showroom in the Hawaiian Village Hotel, a venue specifically built for him by Henry J. Kaiser. The showroom became a hub for showcasing Hawaiian music to tourists and locals alike, solidifying Apaka’s role as an ambassador of Hawaiian culture. His ability to connect with audiences through his music made him a beloved figure, and *Hawaiian Village Nights* remains a testament to his enduring legacy. The album’s release further cemented his reputation as one of Hawaii’s most influential musicians.
Tragically, Alfred Apaka’s life was cut short in 1960, just two years after the release of this iconic album. Despite his untimely passing, his music continues to inspire and resonate with listeners around the world. *Hawaiian Village Nights* is more than just an album; it is a celebration of a rich cultural heritage and a reminder of the timeless beauty of Hawaiian music. Through this work, Apaka’s voice lives on, carrying the spirit of Hawaii to generations of music lovers.
