Experience an unforgettable evening at The Lounge at Island Sound Studios & The Velvet Monkey. Two venues, two bars, one gourmet chef, and four unique shows featuring four different artists, lined up every Saturday evening in one location at the Hawaii Kai Marina (next to Longs). Nestled within a world-class recording studio, our venues offer a unique music experience unlike anywhere else. Ticket holders can enhance & extend their evening or start early by purchasing a ticket for a second act! Begin in The Lounge and then make your way upstairs to our speakeasy, The Velvet Monkey, or the other way around. Additional tickets are available for purchase on our website.
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Empowering Hawai‘i’s Music: Henry Kapono Foundation Launches Multi-Artist, Multi-Venue ‘Music Makers’ Concert Series

The Henry Kapono Foundation (HKF) proudly announces the first season of the Music Makers HKF Concert Series, a vibrant celebration of Hawai‘i’s diverse music culture. In collaboration with Hawai‘i’s premier venues—renowned for their exceptional ambiance and world-class experiences—this series unites legendary icons, rising local stars, and the next generation of emerging talent to honor tradition, foster innovation, and build community through live music. The result is an unparalleled musical journey, offering audiences a variety of immersive and unforgettable experiences.

Introducing "The Velvet Monkey," an exclusive speakeasy with 17 seats. Nestled upstairs from The Lounge via a secret entrance, this cozy venue combines speakeasy charm with live Jazz & Acoustic Sets every Saturday night. Savor handcrafted cocktails and gourmet bites.

Doors Open: 5:30PM
Featured Performance: 6:30PM

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Featuring HKF On The Rise Artist: 
Nick La‘a: Love in Every Chord

Born and raised in Hawaiʻi, Nick Laʻa, frontman of Laʻa Band, has music in his core. Performing on stage since age five, he grew up immersed in Hawaiian culture and musical traditions. A Punahou graduate, he was mentored by local legends Brother Noland and Kristian Lei. Inspired by Bruno Mars and the production styles of David Foster and Quincy Jones, Nick’s diverse musical range spans musical theater, jazz, rock, Hawaiian, R&B, and pop.

Drawing from his vocal and ukulele training, Nick's innate musicality led him to master the piano, ukulele, and bass. He's graced stages statewide, both as a solo artist and as the lead guitarist and vocalist for his band Five2. Collaborations with local icons like Brother Noland and Makana have further enriched his musical journey.

Currently, Nick delights audiences twice weekly at the Halekulani Hotel, showcasing his multifaceted talent and unwavering passion for music.