ManoaDNA

This biography is available for download: .PDF | .DOC
Also available in 日本語.

Officially formed in the summer of 2005, MānoaDNA has become HawaiÊ»i’s hottest band. MānoaDNA’s energy and intense harmonies create a sound that will sweep you off of your feet.

If DNA conjures up visions of sterile science labs for you, then MānoaDNA is about to change your world. Weaving a patchwork of styles and genres into one solid sound, this multi-generational group quickly became a fixture in the music scene. They have taken the science out of DNA and replaced it with harmonies that will touch your soul.

“DNA” stands for Dad, Nick and Alex- and yes, it is all in the genes. For five years, MānoaDNA has been captivating audiences across the country and the Pacific. This talented family band brings 3-part harmony, upbeat sounds, and infectious enthusiasm to every stage. Their first three U.S. albums generated seven Na Hoku nominations and won the 2007 Hawaii Music Award for Contemporary Album of the Year. And they continue to inspire rave reviews.

Separately they are good, together they are great.

“Dad” (Lloyd), a professional musician for over 35 years, quickly recognized the potential for perfect harmony when he saw that his sons had inherited his passion for music. He encouraged and coached them as they strived to take their sound to the next level. Lloyd often draws from personal history and friendships as he showcases the musical talents of MānoaDNA.

After graduating from the college, where he was a soloist with the University Singers, Nick returned home and joined forces with younger brother Alex. Their idea, to form a band of brothers and entertain friends and family at casual gatherings and parties, quickly began to gather steam. Their dad added a third dimension and they realized they had a sound worth perusing.

Alex, meanwhile, with one year of mainland college under his belt, had returned home determined to pursue his music in Hawai’i. His innate abilities and perseverance have been the catalyst to propel MānoaDNA. Armed with original compositions and a vision, he took destiny by the reigns. He convinced Record Producer Roy Sakuma to record their first album and MānoaDNA has never looked back.

As their reputation grows, so does the scope of their popularity.

Since 2008, ManoaDNA has represented the state of Hawai’i in their marketing efforts for Japan. Alex’s original compositions “Discover Aloha with Me”, “Only in Hawai’i”, and “Our Hawai’i”, were featured as the 2008-2012 Hawai’i Tourism Japan campaign songs, and quickly became hits in Japan. This has also lead to other opportunities across the Pacific including features on Disney and compilation albums, as well as a full-length Japan-only release under JVC called “Pure Aloha.”

The have gathered a fan base spanning two continents, from one side of the Pacific to the other. The sound of MānoaDNA transcends generations, delighting audiences with their wide repertoire of music. Whether you enjoy The Eagles, James Taylor, Crosby Stills, the Beach Boys, Latino or Hawaiian music, MānoaDNA has the sounds you’ll enjoy. And, to quote James Ingram, “it doesn’t hurt that they’re easy on the eyes.”

Also available in 日本語.

13 Comments

  1. My husband and I just happened upon your group at a restaurant on Waikiki our second night on the island. We absolutely loved it! We wish you much success. If you ever come to Mid-America, I hope you will let us know!!!!

    Stephania
    Norman, Oklahoma

  2. Aloha
    Good to see you all at Yokohama Hawaii Festival.
    I love your music with perfect harmony.
    Next time, I will see you in Hawaii!

    God Bless

    Toshi

  3. Aloha,
    First time i went to Hawaii. I have been in USA 10 months. Unfortunately I was listening your song a bit but i’m very interesting the music. I never heard before.
    Good luck,
    Pinny

  4. hey howzit?

    heard and saw you guys in vegas on the eve of the football game on the 14th in September. very good show. got some great photos.

    wish ya a lot of success. also saw you tonight on Andy’s Nighttime show.
    aloha

  5. I saw you at LuLu’s and it was my birthday, and I have to tell you, your band made it so memoriable for me. I came home with good memories. Mohalo. If ever you perform in Mid-America, let me know.

  6. When another tourist pointed us towards LuLu’s, watching your group perform was a bonus. It was my birthday and your group made it very memorable for, that I won’t forget. If every you perform in mid-America, let me know
    Mohalo and Mele Kalilimaka–translated, Gracias y Feliz Navidad

  7. Aloha!
    Thanks for the great performance at the University of Portland 2008 Luau. Enjoyed your professional sounds, and will be looking forward to seeing more of your gigs in the future!
    Wishing you the best~

  8. I bought your CD at LuLu’s this year, while going to school in Hawaii for a semester. I wanted to let you know I still listen to it often and it brings back so many memories. You are talented musicians and write beautiful songs. Thank you!

  9. I was just in Hawaii on the big island and saw you guys play at Mauna Lani…very impressive 🙂 You guys should try to play the Aloha Festival in Tempe AZ sometime. It’s coming up March 14-15. Aloha!

  10. Aloha!
    I’m now becoming your fun! day by day…
    I saw your live stage at Hanshin on May 7th.
    Your live was so nice,wonderful and remembered me
    Aloha spirits and Hawai’i atomosphere.
    Nick, your Japanese is very goooooooooood! so surprised.
    Alex, your voice is so sweet. Your talent to write lyrics is fabulous.
    And Dad, I love your gentle smile and energy.
    When I shaked hand with you, you said “Thank you, ‘ohana.”
    This word was so touched to me.

    Anyway, I love you, guys!

    Mahalo!

    Kazuko
    Osaka, Japan

  11. manoa dna could you please perform at our church we will pay you we need your answer by next week you

  12. Dear Carla, Dad, Nick and Alex,
    Congratulations for your grand opening your beautiful shop, IOLANI and
    thank you so much for your invitation to let two of us being at your reception on July 8th.
    The blessing for your shop at the reception was so much mean to all of you and late Mr. Kawakami.
    We felt it was such a privilege and so happy to be there with all of you.
    God bless you to IOLANI and MANOA Dna and ALOHA and MAHALO.
    Thank you for your songs.

    • Mahalo, Yumi & Tadao!
      My family and I are so fortunate to have such wonderful aloha and support from friends like you! I know my dad had a big smile on his face that evening!
      Aloha, “D”

Leave a Comment