About the Music Foundation of Hawaii

Founded in 1996, The Music Foundation of Hawaii is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the diversity of music found in the State of Hawaii, as well as honoring and acknowledging the talents and achievements of the music community. The Foundation supports music education in schools by providing funding for scholarships and grants. We recognize excellence in the recording arts and music education. We also recognize those businesses and music organizations that have contributed to the rich music culture of the State of Hawaii.

The Music Foundation of Hawaii works hard to succeed at this mission by producing and hosting three important Hawaii musical events:

• Hawaii Music Awards
• Legacy Awards
• Brown Bags To Stardom

These three events, which are all held in the first half of the year, sum up the core of what the Music Foundation of Hawaii is all about - recognizing our present talent, honoring our mentors and supporting the next generation of future aspiring talents.

Who Makes Up the Music Foundation of Hawaii

Johnny Kai, Executive Director of the Music Foundation of Hawaii is a working musician, a past member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (the Grammys), Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts (Na Hoku Hanohano Awards), Tri-M National Music Honor Society, and the Musicians Association of Hawaii Local 677.  Johnny Kai has been a successful producer and promoter for over 20 years, touring as one the top entertainers from Hawaii on the East Coast.  In 1996, Johnny Kai brought the largest entourage of Hawaiian musicians to New York for the first Hawaii Music Awards concert held at Carnegie Hall. 

Board of Directors and Production Team

The Board of Directors are:

• Johnny Kai
• OHA Trustee John Waihee IV
• Ron Labez Gandiza

The Production Team includes:

• Executive Director - Johnny Kai

• Music Coordinator - Tommy Chock

• Business and Administrator - Edwin Sakamoto

• Trophy Coordinator - Boogie Bugarin