Ka'au Crater Boys

The Ka'au Crater Boys were a beloved Hawaiian musical duo known for their distinctive blend of contemporary and traditional Hawaiian music. Comprised of Ernie Cruz Jr. and Troy Fernandez, the group gained widespread popularity in the 1990s with their infectious melodies, soulful harmonies, and virtuosic ukulele playing. Here are five facts about the Ka'au Crater Boys:

1. Formation and Early Years: The Ka'au Crater Boys formed in the mid-1980s when childhood friends Ernie Cruz Jr. and Troy Fernandez joined forces to share their passion for music. Hailing from the island of Oahu in Hawaii, the duo drew inspiration from their island roots, infusing their music with the sounds of traditional Hawaiian slack-key guitar and ukulele, as well as contemporary influences from rock, reggae, and pop.

2. Ukulele Virtuosity: One of the hallmarks of the Ka'au Crater Boys' sound was Troy Fernandez's exceptional ukulele playing. Known for his technical skill, innovative fingerpicking techniques, and soulful expressiveness, Fernandez elevated the ukulele to new heights, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing performances. His masterful playing helped to redefine the instrument's role in contemporary Hawaiian music and solidified his reputation as one of the finest ukulele players of his generation.

3. Chart-Topping Success: The Ka'au Crater Boys achieved commercial success with their debut album, "Tropical Hawaiian Day", released in 1993. The album featured a mix of original compositions and cover songs, including their popular rendition of the classic Hawaiian tune "You Don't Write". "Tropical Hawaiian Day" became a breakout hit, reaching the top of the Hawaiian music charts and earning the duo widespread acclaim. The album's success helped to popularize contemporary Hawaiian music and introduced the Ka'au Crater Boys to audiences around the world.

4. Legacy and Influence: Despite their relatively short-lived career, the Ka'au Crater Boys left an indelible mark on the Hawaiian music scene. Their innovative blend of traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary elements inspired a new generation of musicians and helped to revitalize interest in Hawaiian music both locally and internationally. Their influence can be heard in the work of numerous artists who have followed in their footsteps, continuing to explore the rich musical heritage of Hawaii while pushing the boundaries of the genre.

5. Tragic Loss and Tribute: Sadly, the Ka'au Crater Boys' journey was cut short by tragedy when Ernie Cruz Jr. passed away in 2016 at the age of 56. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the Hawaiian music community, leaving fans mourning the loss of one of their most beloved performers. In the years since his passing, Cruz's legacy has been honored through tribute concerts, musical retrospectives, and ongoing appreciation for his contributions to Hawaiian music. Though the Ka'au Crater Boys are no longer active, their music continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a timeless reminder of the beauty and spirit of the Hawaiian islands.