21 Hawaiian Ukulele Songs for Beginners with Chords

Hawaiian Ukulele Songs

Are you searching for some genuine Hawaiian ukulele songs? The ukulele, without Hawaii, is tough to imagine. Sure, Hawaii has given birth to plenty of genius and music.

When you think of mastering the synopsis of the instrument, you need to include a few Hawaiian songs in your collection.

We have added a few of the popular Hawaiian ukulele songs to this article. Hopefully, you can learn and hear in the spirit of Hawaii. Let’s get started without delay.

1. “Over The Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Chords used in this song: C, Em, F, G, Am

Probably, “Over The Rainbow” is the most popular Hawaiian ukulele song in our collection included.

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, a Hawaiian ukulele legend, becomes most celebrated for his heart-touching performance of “Over the Rainbow.” That is to say, all ukulele players should learn it.

Sure, it does not mean that the song is getting easier. The eight chords are in this song, and it becomes much more than a typical pop song. It will depend on your endeavor to learn.

Ukulele Tab: UkulelesReview

2. “Aloha Oe” by Queen Liliuokalani

Chords used in this song: C, D7, F, F7, G, G7

We are going to talk about “Aloha Oe” by Queen Liliuokalani. The lyrics depict excellent tropical Hawaiian images.

This song is beautiful enough to hear with a mild notch that makes it similar to the sea and spontaneous environment of the islands.

On the whole, the song symbolizes somewhat Hawaiian culture. So, learn the importance to know about Hawaii.

Ukulele Tab: UkuTabs

3. “Lava” by Kuana Torres Kahele, James Ford Murphy & Nāpua Greig

Chords used in this song: A, C, F, G7

From the 2014 musical short film Lava of Disney, this song may be familiar to you. Note that this song highlights the ukulele as a central role.

Lava,” tells about a solitary person who observes couples and hopes that he might come in contact with anyone special.

The song comes with a moderate tempo. Moreover, there are no cumbersome chord changes in this song, but tempo changes happen throughout it. So be careful about them.

Ukulele Tab: UkuTabs

4. “Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai” by Hapa

Chords used in this song: D7, G, C, Gmaj7

Another Hawaiian ukulele song is “Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai.” You can play most of the “Ka Uluwehi O Ke Kai” part with three chords, such as G, C, and D7. To give some colors at the end of the song, the Gmaj7 is used.

Even though this song features an exuberant melody, so if you’re running, don’t forget to continue!

By watching the video, you can learn the song. But, concentrate on the chords and the strumming at first if you want to get started as a beginner.

Ukulele Tab: Ultimate-Guitar.com

5. “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” by Mark Keali’I Ho’omalu

Chords used in this song: Bb, Bbm, C, Cm, Dm, F

From the animated Disney film Lilo & Stitch in 2002, this song has gained the most recognition.

The I – IV – vi – V progression is the main riff of the song. So, you hit it, as you know.

Indeed, I never hear this song on the ukulele in the original. But you can start it with a ukulele through your presentation.

Ukulele Tab: UkuTabs

6. “Mele Kalikimaka” by Bing Crosby

Chords used in this song: A7, Ab, B7, Bb7, C7, D, D7, E7, Em, Eb, Eb7, F7, Fm, G

You might have heard that “Mele Kalikimaka” by Bing Crosby is known as a Hawaiian Christmas theme song.

Seemingly, you can think that 14 chords are too exceeding. But the same structure throughout most of the portion is followed.

It can appear to be somewhat challenging for starters, but mid-level players ought to have the capability of learning it.

Ukulele Tab: UkuTabs

7. “Island In The Sun” by Weezer

Chords used in this song: Em, Am, D, G, C

It is one of the best Hawaiian ukulele songs on our list to start. The song does not precisely follow a Hawaiian Song, but it got stimulated by the destination holiday.

The band reiterates the same Em, A, D, and G chord progress throughout most of the song which has done it easy.

You have to keep an eye on the bridge where separate chord progress is changed briefly.

Ukulele Tab: Ukulele Tabs and Chords

8. “Island Style” by John Cruz

Chords used in this song: C, G7, F, C7

If you look for a song to start playing the ukulele for the first time, “Island Style” might be a perfect choice. Although we have mentioned four chords above, three chords are mainly essential. But, C7 needs just for increasing flavor.

Like many other Hawaiian pieces of music, it delineates the cultural entity of the island and the relaxed atmosphere.

If you keep it on your chosen list, first hear it.

Ukulele Tab: Live Ukulele

9. “Pearly Shells” by Burl Ives

Chords used in this song: G, G7, A, C, cm, D, D7

“Pearly Shells” appears to be the symbol of Hawaii from the starting notes. But on its interior, this song is merely about falling in love.

It can become a bit tough to change some chords compared to others, D7, for instance. Somewhat do slow, give the time more, and at one time, you can finally play along with this song without trouble.

Ukulele Tab: Ozbcoz.com

10. “Love And Honesty” By Hawaiian Style Band

Chords used in this song: G, Bm, C, Am, D

In a love relationship, “Love and honesty” becomes a soothing song.

Due to the straightforward rhythm and moderate tempo, this ukulele love song may be a superb choice for the novice. The Bm can create somewhat of a challenge, but it is a learning-friendly song.

You can add to your collection this song for all those emotional moments.

Ukulele Tab: Ukulele Tabs and Chords

11. “E Huli Mākou” by David Chung

Chords used in this song: F, G7, C7

“E Huli Mākou” becomes a beginning spot for uke players as well as hula dancers.

The rhythm goes from moderate to fast. But, the chords remain outright. Essentially, you need to follow a repetitive pattern throughout the song.

Nevertheless, begin slowly and build faster, okay?

Ukulele Tab: Live Ukulele

12. “You Don’t Write” by Ka’au Crater Boys

Chords used in this song: G, Bm, C, Am, D, D7

All ukulele players can learn this song. With an interesting chord progression and melody, the song features a prominent enthusiastic groove.

There is the G – Bm – C – C verses in the song that gets simple enough to learn for the starters.

The solo is possibly the best part of the song. Attempt it to play whether you are an intermediate player or above.

Ukulele Tab: Ukulele Tabs and Chords

13. “Hi’ilawe” by Sam Li’a

Chords used in this song: F, Bb, C7

“Hi’ilawe” mentions a love story of the Waipi’o Valley. For local Hula dancers, it gets entirely indispensable.

Surprisingly, the 13 verses remained in the original song. But most musicians shorten it to six or seven while they perform today.

Three chords are sufficient for it. Yet, it can become a bit challenging compared to your thought. So, you can require somewhat time to accustomed to it.

Ukulele Tab: Live Ukulele

14. “E Ku’u Morning Dew” by Eddie Kamae

Chords used in this song: Am, D7, G

E Ku’u Morning Dew” of Legend Eddie Kamae has a repetitive ii – V – I style progression, ideal for jazz.

It might seem to be intricate, but it just does translation into the Am, D7, and G, in this case.

Knowing to play a melody will be an exceptionally fun part to jam for it. You can find some modulation based on its version. Incorporating main changes may get funny for players from intermediate to advanced.

Ukulele Tab: Live Ukulele

15. “Ku’u Home O Kahalu’u” by Olomana

Chords used in this song: C, F, C7, G7

Another Hawaiian classic, “Ku’u Home O Kahalu’u”, might become suitable for beginners. In “Hawaiian hook, English is utilized for the rest of the song. As a result, this song has been a conventional-contemporary crossbred.

If you are a full apprentice, it is one of the best Hawaiian ukulele songs to begin. But you can try with other songs, in case it seems to be too facile. Above all, it is a superb easy song for beginners to attempt.

Ukulele Tab: Live Ukulele

16. “Blue Hawaii” by Elvis Presley

Chords used in this song: G#, C#, A#, D#

Is there any person who does not desire to learn “Blue Hawaii” by Elvis Presley?

Okay, you can use just four chords to play just the fundamental structure of the song. Someone says that it gets a little hard to play on the ukulele for G# major. But being said, you could feel it more facile to play in a non # or b key, similar to G.

It should yearn to play for all chord changes for Intermediate and advanced players.

Ukulele Tab: Ukulele Tabs and Chords

17. “About You” by Cecilio & Kapono

Chords used in this song: G, Bm, Em, Am, D, C, A, E

You will find a 70s pop and rock vibe to “About You” at the beginning.

Many consider it a fun song for the ukulele because of its relaxed vibe. Only be careful about all chord changes and attempt to set up them rightly!

Try to bring some licks with you to play this melody, in case you are an intermediate or advanced player.

Ukulele Tab: Ukuland.com

18. “Kauanoeanuhea” by Keali’I Reichel

Chords used in this song: G, C, Cm, D/F#, D7

The prime part of “Kauanoeanuhea” features a ballad. Its time becomes simple. Most chord changes hold out once or twice. Consequently, both adults and kids can follow this song effortlessly.

If you become accustomed to its strumming once, it is tough to find an alternative.

Ukulele Tab: Islandmusicnetwork.com

19. “Hele On To Kaua’i” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

Chords used in this song: A, D, E7, A7, G7, C, C7, F

Essentially, “Hele On To Kaua’i” shows respect for the life of the island. Once you hear it attentively, you will discern that it has a little of a country taste.

The prime reason for having many chords in the song is an original change at the end. Most of the parts of the song cover three chords. So to say, a good challenge for the beginner will be the prime change.

Ukulele Tab: Ultimate-Guitar.com

20. “Maori Brown Eyes” by Palolo

Chords used in this song: C#, D, Dm, Em, G, C, Am, A

If you are an intermediate player, it is suitable enough for you. Rightly, Maori Brown Eyes” is just a little of a bluesy vibe.

Knowing ability how to play blues licks on your instrument will make it fun to riffing over this song. Otherwise, you would not think of playing the guitar licks. Just concentrate on the strumming.

Ukulele Tab: Chordu.com

21.“Home In The Islands” by The Brothers Cazimero

Chords used in this song: F, Bb, C

This song narrates the tale of a nomad musician who loses a remarkable other.

It is an excellent song for new players with only three chords, a medium tempo, and a distinctive strumming type.

Go further and try if you can chalk out a few of the licks that happened in verse.

Ukulele Tab: Ultimate-Guitar.com

Popular Hawaiian Ukulele Songs, Final Verdict

Here are many easy Hawaiian ukulele songs that will help you improve your skill. If any of it seems to be challenging, then keep in mind – nothing comes effortlessly. To reach in skill point, you need to continue your practice regularly.

The most significant thing is that the process has to be joyful. A joyless task can never be successful. So, enjoy these pieces of Hawaiian music with the ukulele.

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