It’s been over two years since The Makaha Sons have graced the stage at the historic Palace Theater. Returning on Saturday at 7 p.m., this ever-popular group will be playing and singing new songs and old favorites like “Take a Walk in the Country.” Twenty-two albums, 23 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010 have earned this long-lived group a place in everyone’s heart.
“We are thrilled to have The Makaha Sons back on our stage,” said Phillips Payson, executive director of the Palace Theater. “Over 2 years ago, the trio was the last act to perform on the Palace stage prior to the 2020 shutdown. It’s an honor to welcome them back to the Palace as the first group to usher in the return of live concerts to the historic theater.”
Jerome Koko, the sole remaining original member of the Sons, has kept the music going since their first “formal” performance at an assembly at Nanakuli High. Before they went on, the emcee asked, “What do you call yourselves?” “We looked at each other and said, ‘Uh … the Makaha Sons of Ni‘ihau?’
The makeup of the band has changed over the years, with Israel “Iz” Kamakawiwo’ole as one of the original members. Jerome’s brother John joined the group. When both Brother Iz and later Jerome’s brother John died, Jerome was left to rebuild the band, retaining their original sound. Jerome is now joined by Kino Artis on electric guitar and Hanale Ka‘anapu on six-string.
“Welcoming the iconic harmonies and joyful banter of The Makaha Sons back to the Palace stage is an absolute treat,” said Payson.
Tickets are $45 for orchestra seating and $35 for general admission. Tickets are available on the Palace website at hilopalace.com, at the box office, or by phone at 808 934-7010, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday.