Filipino Hawaiian Kalani Pe‘a wins fourth Grammy Award
Kalani Pe‘a / Photo from kalanipeamusic/Instagram
Maui’s very own Kalani Pe‘a has once again made history, clinching his fourth Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music Album with his latest masterpiece, “Kuini.”
The award was announced during the non-televised portion of the 67th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.
The Filipino Hawaiian artist, who previously won in the same category in 2017, 2019 and 2022, has now maintained a perfect record, going four-for-four at the Grammys.
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Kuini, meaning “Queen” in Hawaiian, is a deeply personal album featuring 11 tracks, all of which Pe‘a either wrote or co-wrote.
The album includes collaborations with renowned musicians such as Jake Shimabukuro, Tiana Nonosina Liufau and Wailau Ryder.
During his acceptance speech, as shared by Star Advertiser, Pe‘a paid tribute to the powerful women who have shaped his life and culture.
“I mahalo Akua, na akua, my kupuna, my ancestors and forefathers, for instilling in me the gift of love and music,” he expressed. “For my mother right here, who gave birth to this queen, one queen to this queen, and my husband of 16 years, Allan – this is my team.”
The Grammy-winning artist also dedicated the award to Hawaiian matriarchs and the strength of their lineage. “Kuini means ‘queen.’ I honor the matriarchs and the matrilineal powers of the universe. My mother, my grandmothers, your mother, your grandmothers—Queen Emma, who established an amazing healthcare system for Kanaka.”
Pe‘a also acknowledged the challenges his home island of Maui has faced, particularly the devastation of wildfires. “We live on Maui. We dealt with the wildfires. We can relate, and we’re here to bring healing to the world.”
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His husband, Allan B. Cool-Pe‘a, celebrated the moment with a heartfelt message on social media, writing “Wow, what can I say… #GRAMMYs 2025, that’s a wrap! We did it… Kalani did it. He has such a big heart, and I truly think people can see that through his music and live performance,” he wrote. “I’m so excited for what’s to come for you, my husband. I love you, @kalanipeamusic.”
