Hawai'i: a state of the United States of America located in the Pacific Ocean known for its' delicious food, beautiful beaches, and being the home to some of the most popular reggae singers and groups in today's era.
Formed in 2009 on O'ahu, Hawai'i, The Green is known to be one of the biggest reggae bands performing today. The bands' music blends roots reggae, such as music by the genre's famous Bob Marley, smooth lovers' rock, contemporary pop, and rock with references to Hawaiian culture's music styles and lyrics. The band has sold out shows globally, from small venues to massive arenas.
The band consists of 6 members: lead vocalist Caleb Keolanui, guitarists JP Kennedy and Zion Thompson, bass guitarist Brad Watanabe, drummer Jordan Espinoza, and keyboardist Ikaika Antone on the keyboard. Prior to forming the band, some of the band members have had past musical experiences with each other. Besides having played together in band Next Generation, Caleb Keolanui and JP Kennedy go way back to baby days—they're first cousins. And adding to the list, Ikaika Antone and Zion Thompson worked together in band Stir Crazy.
Music has given way and opportunity to each of the members of the Green, eventually getting them to where they stand as a band today. "Countless miles of touring and four studio albums have led [us] to become recognized as ambassadors of Aloha, helping represent Hawaiian people and culture to the world through their craft" (The Green). The band strives to share their love for the islands with the world—incorporating the beauty, respect, and culture of Hawai'i into their music.
The band has released five albums and multiple singles. Throughout the years, the band has hit the top of the charts on each of their albums. Their album Marching Orders won Album of the Year at the 2018 Island Music Awards and the band was recognized as Group of the Year the following year.
The Green has performed at festivals worldwide such as the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival, the Vans Warped Tour, and the One Love Festival New Zealand. With the success of their music, the band has been able to take on their own touring schedules in supporting other reggae bands, such as Rebelution and SOJA, and artists like Damian Marley. The band has come a long way, being recognized by some of the top artists in the music industry. In 2018, the band performed alongside, Hawai'i's born and raised, Bruno Mars while on his 24K Magic World Tour stop in Honolulu.
Add some reggae to your playlist and go check out The Green's music on their website. You can also stream some of their music below.