R.J. Lanui Kaneao

Combining reggae grooves, heart felt ballads, and Polynesian rhythms, RJ Kaneao's unique blend of contemporary sounds and traditional beats lends to the color of local Hawai'i and Pacific music. Performing along side such greats as Don Ho, Melveen Leed, Dennis Pavao, Mana'o and Company, Kawao, Fiji, O-shen, and many others RJ has spent much of his life fine tuning the details of island music.

As a Polynesian entertainer traveling the globe with Tihati Productions RJ's exposure abroad has helped craft his musical style into a much desired local pleasure. Now the musical director for Tihati Productions on the Big Island he continues to honor and share his Polynesian heritage with all.

Along with local artists, RJ Kaneao's influences include Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Frank Sinatra. "Weird huh?!" Not really considering the eclectic mix of tunes from the catchy lines of "This is 4 my lady" to laid back ballads like "Love you driving me crazy". He credits much of his success and musical guidance to his mentor Kalama Ku Koanui and his family as inspiration.

With his third release, Toru, RJ Kaneao highlights his musical inspirations and brings his journey back to its roots. Recorded completely in his own studio Toru is a testament not only to RJ's musical gifts but his technical skill behind the boards as well. Toru is RJ's giving of himself back to his listeners, fans, and family.

From the relaxing love groove 'Sipn' on Wine' to the more upbeat 'This is For My Lady' to the already well requested 'Oooh Now Girl' RJ shows that he still has a rhythm and step for ladies. The island pop 'Hotshotz' throws down the funk while 'Warriors' seeks to hold strong the support for struggles of the Polynesian man in today's world. Ending with a Hawaiian ballad Toru's 'Ku'ulei Pikake Onaona' is a tribute to the softer and more romantic side of island music. With 14 original tracks in total RJ Kaneao's Toru is the culmination of the creative mind and musical talent of one of Hawaii's hardest working entertainers.



© 2009 RJ Kaneao; Motu Pacfic; Music distributed by Pacific Hawaiian