Honolulu, Hawai‘i’ (April 24, 2026): Pacific Records is proud to announce that its artists and releases have received multiple entries on the first round ballot for the 2026 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, presented annually by the Hawai‘i Academy of Recording Arts. Often regarded as Hawai‘i’s equivalent of the GRAMMY® Awards, the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards honor excellence and achievement in the Hawaiian music industry.
First round voting is now open to HARA voting members and will remain open through May 5, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. HST. This initial ballot determines the official nominees, which will be announced following the close of voting.
Pacific Records’ first round ballot entries include:
Album of the Year
KupuKupu
Single of the Year
“Slack Key Blues” – Slack Key ʻOhana & Rand Anderson
“Storm Bird” – Shane Hall and Tavana
Instrumental Composition
“Slack Key Blues (Haʻina Hou)” – Slack Key ʻOhana Rand Anderson
Song of the Year
“Slack Key Blues” – Slack Key ʻOhana & Rand Anderson
“Storm Bird” – Shane Hall and Tavana
“These Islands” – Matt Krahula featuring Henry Kapono
Group of the Year
KupuKupu
Most Promising Artist
KupuKupu
Alternative Album of the Year
KupuKupu – KupuKupu
Island Music Album of the Year
This Island Life – Matt Krahula
“These entries highlight the incredible talent and creative range of our artists,” said Pacific Records president Brian Witkin. “We’re honored to see their work recognized by the Hawai‘i Academy of Recording Arts and grateful to be part of such a vibrant musical community.”
Established in 1978, the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards celebrate outstanding achievements across a wide range of musical categories, spotlighting both traditional and contemporary Hawaiian music.
For more information about Pacific Records and its artists, visit https://pacificrecords.com/our-artists/