Willie K
William Awihilima Kahaiali'i, known as Willie K,[1] (1961 – May 19, 2020) was an American singer-songwriter, musician and record producer. His music genres were blues, rock, Hawaiian, and opera. He was born in Lahaina, Maui.[2]
In 1993, Willie began to work with Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom that would last for nine years. They recorded, performed, and toured together, and also shared a personal relationship.[3] Their recordings won seven Na Hoku Hanohano Awards.[4][5] In 2005, Willie's reunion album with Gilliom, Amy & Willie Live, was nominated for a Grammy in the first year of the Best Hawaiian Music Album award.[6]
In February 2018, Willie K was diagnosed with lung cancer.[7] In April 2019, Willie announced that it was terminal.[4] He died a month later on 19 May 2020, aged 59.[8]
References
- ↑ Paul Liberatore. Willie K, from Hawaiian Hendrix to Polynesian Pavarotti. Marin Independent Journal (2015-12-03). Retrieved 2016-04-09.
- ↑ Campos, Samantha. Who Is Willie K?. Maui TIme (25 May 2006). Retrieved 4 November 2019.
- ↑ Olena Heu and Melissa Chang. Amy Hanaiali'i and Willie K are reunited (2014-10-26). Retrieved 2016-04-09.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Awards - Willie K Hawaiian Music Maui Live Music Maui Entertainment. Retrieved 2020-04-05.
- ↑ Schweizer, Laura. Willie K. shares his healing process, citing the 'power of prayer' (2 April 2019)KITV. Retrieved 4 November 2019.
- ↑ Wilma Consul. Hawaiian Music Makes Its Grammy Debut (2005-02-11). Retrieved 2016-04-09.
- ↑ Willie K diagnosed with lung cancer, cancels performances (February 5, 2018)Hawaii News Now. Retrieved February 20, 2018.
- ↑ Hawaiian music icon Willie K has passed away. Retrieved 2020-05-19.
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