"Holunape” began with an audition for a steady performance at the Willows Restaurant. The group claimed victory of the competition and played at the Willows for the next two years. At the time Kama, Kekoa, and Kanai‘a were members of the group formerly known as Kilinahe. Kilinahe was a reflection of their music. A soft and gentle rain that is light and refreshing. Much like the nahenahe music they are used to playing.

Eventually, Kilinahe decided to go it’s separate ways. The remaining trio realized they needed to change their name. With the help of Mr. Kihei DeSilva, a new group was born, Holunape.

In 2004, Holunape entered and took home top honors at Ka HImeni ‘Ana, an acoustic singing competition held at the Hawai‘i Theatre. They completed their debut album, entitled He ‘Olu in December of 2005. He ‘Olu received recognition for Best Traditional Hawaiian Album of the Year at the 2006 Hawai‘i Music Awards. In June, Holunape took home two Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. They received the highly regarded award, Best Use of the Hawaiian Language, and also named the 2006 Group of the Year.