Compositions by Liliuokalani
Encyclopedia
The following is a list of compositions by Liliuokalani. Queen Liliuokalani was the only queen and the last reigning monarch of Hawaii
, having been deposed by the Committee of Public Safety
in the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893.
, is a famous waltz
composed by Queen Lili'uokalani around 1868. Probably written at Hamohamo, the Waikiki
home of the Queen, this song appeared in "He Buke Mele O Hawaii" under the title He Ala Nei E Māpu Mai Nei. Ahe Lau Makani is used only verse 1 and 2, and may be an abridged version. Līlīlehua refers to the name of the gentle rain in Palolo Valley, Oahu
. Verse 1, 2 and the Chorus is translated by Liliuokalani, and Verse 3, 4 by Hui Hānai.
Ahe Lau Makani was composed jointly with the Queen's sister Princess Likelike
and Kapoli, a mysterious collaborator who, to this day, remains unidentified. The "Viennese-ness" of this waltz is especially evident in the hui, or chorus. Ahe Lau Makani describes a lover's sweet breath. It poetically describes someone's yearning for a loved one. As Dennis says, "In the figurative Hawaiian, this breeze is actually the breath of one who I admire, carried by the wind. Whoever the Queen wrote about, she got right into that person and conveyed it through the whole song."
, Oahu
.
In The Queen's Songbook, editors Dorothy Kahananui Gillett and Barbara Barnard Smith note that it's not a surprise that this love song from 1886, when Lili‘uokalani was still a princess
, comes from a time when her diaries "are strewn with references to a special 'friend', perhaps Henry Berger." Berger was the director of the Royal Hawaiian Band
, and Gillett and Smith note the possibility "that the song celebrates a romantic liaison" with him. Even the title, which translates to "The Beautiful Form", or as the Queen herself translated it, Beautiful One, has possible romantic associations. It is one of the most compelling melodies of the Queen's songs, and I arranged it so the second verse is played in a relaxed 12/8 ballad style.
supporter, John Wilson (whose mother, Evelyn T. Wilson, went into voluntary imprisonment with the Queen) regularly brought her flowers. These flowers were wrapped in newspaper, through which means she was able to read the news that was prohibited to her during her imprisonment. The song is a tribute to this young man, whom she held in very high esteem.
Performance of the song is known to be vocally challenging in terms of range, timing, power, and breath control. One of the most famous recorded renditions was made by activist/singer George Helm
on the first live album that was released after his death in the Kaho'olawe struggle.
This song has many allusion to Hawaiian mythology. The Kilohana in verse 1, stanza 2 is in Kalihi Valley on O'ahu and was the sacred home of Haumea and Wakea
. Verse 2, stanzas 3 and 4 is an allusion to the old Hawaiian religion. Although Lili`uokalani embraced Christianity, she was very familiar with the practice of worshipping and feeding na aumakua
(family gods). Kapo, the dark sorceress in verse 3, stanza 4, is Kapo`ula`kïna`u, the dual-natured goddess, daughter of Haumea and Wakea, and sister of Pele and Kamohoali`i
. Her benevolent nature was Laka
, the goddess of hula
. This song also served as a mele inoa (name song) for Princess Ka'iulani
and English, one of her first works to appear in print. It was signed L.K. (Lydia Kamaka'eha) Pākī, the name she used until her marriage in 1862 to John Owen Dominis
. The English translation is by Liliuokalani herself.
This song demonstrates her poetic skills in which romantic love, love of nature and love of the land are happily entwined. This setting was written for the popular Pacific Rim Choral Festival which takes place in Hawaii each summer.
, she saw something unusual next door in her neighbor, Dr. McKibben's yard, a lawn sprinkler going round and round. Fascinated, the Queen watched for a long time spinning this tune to its rhythm.
, the great-granddaughter of Kamehameha I
and Liliuokalani's beloved foster sister. It was written in 1868 prior to the accession of Liliuokalani's family. They were on a trip to the island of Hawaii
and had visited Puna
and the Panaewa forest in the Hilo district. Liliuokalani wrote this song at Mānā. The Bishop Estate, Pauahi's continuing legacy, created and maintains the Kamehameha Schools
. High school students at Kamehameha sing this song every year on Founder's Day, 19 December, the date of Pauahi's birth. The song was translated by Mary Kawena Pukui
.
went to England for the Golden Jubilee
of Queen Victoria
. On this occasion, Queen Kapiolani wore a parure
of catseye shells and a gown embroidered with blue peacock feathers. In the second verse, Liliuokalani describes the British Queen-Empress as the topmost blossom.
/modernization
. It is about the sinking of the ship, the , in 1915. It was an event that helped create the concept of a "World War
."
Pelekane means "Britain" and reveals the long-standing affinity that the Native Hawaiian people felt for England. It was the British that the Hawaiian Kingdom attempted to emulate and identify with – so much so that the royal contingent traveled to England to attend Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887 and adopted the "Union Jack" symbol in the Kingdom of Hawaii
flag
. This song may refer to England owning the Lusitania.
Unlike most other Native Hawaiian songs, it is written without the beautiful imagery of nature. Instead, it describes the use of explosives and torpedo
s. This is warfare without warriors in hand-to-hand combat, with the concept of "civilians" redefined by wholesale destruction of places. In a way, this is a modern protest song is in the style of Kaulana Nā Pua
. This piece foreshadows the militarization of Hawai`i as the Western outpost for United States military forces. This militarization of the islands is an important aspect of Native Hawaiian experience. Not only are many areas reserved by the military, but the island economy is dependent upon it.
on the Island of Hawaii
, which was renowned for its groves of fragrant hala (Pandanus tectorius
). The first two verses were published in He Buke Mele Hawaii and the third verse is from a Bishop Museum manuscript. The fourth verse was preserved by Bill Kaiwa. Verse 1, 2, and hui translated by Liliuokalani. Verses 3 and 4 translated by Hui Hānai.
Along with Ahe Lau Makani and Paia Ka Nahele, composed in the same year, these two waltz
es are especially evident in the hui, or chorus
, of Puna Paia Aala. These three song that took the form as waltzes, were a fresh departure for Liliu. Their lyrics are full of romance, and the rhythmic buoyancy and grace of the music place them among her most memorable melodies.
in the court of her brother King David Kalakaua. The song describes a possibly clandestine love affair or romance in the royal court. This version is based on Robert Cazimero's choral arrangement for the Kamehameha Schools Song Contest. Steve composed the interlude between the second and third verses for this recording. Queen Lili'uokalani originally wrote Sanoe in common time, though today it is almost always performed in triple meter. Where and how this change occurred is a mystery Steve is interested in solving.
This affair in the royal court is centered on Sanoe, the woman, who was probably Kapeka; the gentleman, is unknown. Kapeka was the joint composer to this song. Queen Lili‘uokalani indicates she composed Sanoe with "Kapeka", her friend who's real name was Elizabeth Sumner Achuck.
Sanoe was brought back into general circulation by 'ukulele master Eddie Kamae and Gabby with the Sons of Hawaii on "MUSIC OF OLD HAWAII".
of Queen Victoria of England, which Princess Lili'uokalani attended with a royal contingent from Hawai'i.
to the throne.
Queen Liliuokalani wrote this at the bottom of the manuscript: "Composed during my imprisonment at Iolani Palace by the Missionary party who overthrew my government." She was referring to the illegal Overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy
by U.S. business interests backed by the U.S. government. "Ironically, the song is about the values she embraced from the Western culture that imprisoned her, the values of forgiveness, love, faith and hope."
composed by Queen Liliuokalani. Mentioned in the song is Kaalaalaa, which refers to the area of lower Nuuanu below Maemae Hill. This hula was composed for a benefit program at Kaumakapili Church in Palama. Maria Heleluhe danced the part of the tūtū (granny) and 7 little girls performed as the grandchildren. The Queen taught the girls to sing the song with her and she accompanied them on her guitar. The song received 5 encores and the performers were showered with money.
Kingdom of Hawaii
The Kingdom of Hawaii was established during the years 1795 to 1810 with the subjugation of the smaller independent chiefdoms of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lānai, Kauai and Niihau by the chiefdom of Hawaii into one unified government...
, having been deposed by the Committee of Public Safety
Committee of Safety (Hawaii)
The Committee of Safety, formally the Citizen's Committee of Public Safety, was a 13-member group of the Hawaiian League also known as the Annexation Club...
in the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893.
Nohea I Muolaulani
Nohea I Muolaulani, translated as Handsome One of Mu'olaulani sometimes as Handsome at Mu'olaulani, and also referred to simply as Mu'olaulani, dates to May 1885. It was composed for Liliuokalani's new home in Kapālama named Mu'olaulani which was opened with a gala party in May 1885. The Kapālama house was a source of great joy to her and became the subject of this song. It is now the site of the Lili'uokalani Childrens' Center.| He mea nui ke aloha | This great love of yours |
| Ke hiki mai i ou nei | Has come here to me |
| Meheo kuu lei kaimana ala | It is like my diamond necklace |
| Kāhiko o kuu kino | To adorn my person |
| Kuu lei popohe i ka lai | My lei so shapely in the calm |
| Nohea i Muolaulani | Handsome at Muolaulani |
| Ka beauty lā he mau ia | It is a beauty, always a thing forever |
| No nā kau ā kau | For all seasons |
Ahe Lau Makani
Ahe Lau Makani, translated as The Soft Gentle Breeze or There is a ZephyrZephyr
Zephyr may refer to:* A light or west wind* Zephyrus, one of the Anemoi and the Greek god of the west wind* Zephyranthes, a plant genus whose species include the zephyr lily* Zephyr , a well-known graffiti artist from New York City...
, is a famous waltz
Waltz
The waltz is a ballroom and folk dance in time, performed primarily in closed position.- History :There are several references to a sliding or gliding dance,- a waltz, from the 16th century including the representations of the printer H.S. Beheim...
composed by Queen Lili'uokalani around 1868. Probably written at Hamohamo, the Waikiki
Waikiki
Waikiki is a neighborhood of Honolulu, in the City and County of Honolulu, on the south shore of the island of Oahu, in Hawaii. Waikiki Beach is the shoreline fronting Waikīkī....
home of the Queen, this song appeared in "He Buke Mele O Hawaii" under the title He Ala Nei E Māpu Mai Nei. Ahe Lau Makani is used only verse 1 and 2, and may be an abridged version. Līlīlehua refers to the name of the gentle rain in Palolo Valley, Oahu
Oahu
Oahu or Oahu , known as "The Gathering Place", is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and most populous of the islands in the U.S. state of Hawaii. The state capital Honolulu is located on the southeast coast...
. Verse 1, 2 and the Chorus is translated by Liliuokalani, and Verse 3, 4 by Hui Hānai.
Ahe Lau Makani was composed jointly with the Queen's sister Princess Likelike
Likelike
Miriam Kapili Kekāuluohi Likelike was a Princess of the Kingdom of Hawaii, sister of the last two ruling monarchs, mother of Princess Kaiulani, last heir to the throne, and mistress of the [[ʻĀinahau]] estate.-Life:...
and Kapoli, a mysterious collaborator who, to this day, remains unidentified. The "Viennese-ness" of this waltz is especially evident in the hui, or chorus. Ahe Lau Makani describes a lover's sweet breath. It poetically describes someone's yearning for a loved one. As Dennis says, "In the figurative Hawaiian, this breeze is actually the breath of one who I admire, carried by the wind. Whoever the Queen wrote about, she got right into that person and conveyed it through the whole song."
| He ala nei e māpu mai nei | There is a breath so gently breathing |
| Nā ka makani lau aheahe | So soft, so sweet, by sighing breezes |
| I lawe mai i kuu nui kino | That as it touches my whole being |
| Hoopumehana i kuu poli | It warms me in my heart |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| E ke hoa o ke Ahe lau makani | We, fair one, together, shall enjoy such moments |
| Halihaliala o kuu āina | While murmuring wind sweeps over my fatherland |
| He ala nei e moani mai nei | There is a breath so soft and balmy |
| Na ka ua noe Līlīlehua, | Brought by sweet zephyrs, Līlīlehua |
| I lawe mai i kuu poli | And while wafted to my bosom |
| Hoopumehana i ke aloha | It warms me with love |
| He ala nei e puia mai nei | There is a fragrance that saturates |
| Na ka makani anu kolonahe | A cool, soft breeze |
| I lawe mai nā a pili | Brought it to cling to me |
| Hoopumehana i ka manao | Warming me with feelings |
| He ala nei e aheahe mai nei | There is a fragrance wafted here |
| Na ka leo hone a nā manu | The sweet call of birds |
| I lawe mai a loaa au | Brought it to find me |
| Hoopumehana i ko leo | Being warmed by your voice |
By And By, Hoi Mai Oe
By And By, Hoi Mai Oe, translated as By and By Thou Wilt Return , is a famous song composed by Queen Lili'uokalani.| Aia i Mauna Kilohana | There at Mount Kilohana |
| O au lehua ula i ka wao | My red lehua of the forest |
| Na maka ohe kii i ka wai | Sharp eyes fetch the water |
| Ahai ka iini a ka manao | And carry off the desire of the heart |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| By and by hoi mai oe | By and by you will return |
| E he ala hoene i ka poli | O fragrance that soflty flutters my heart |
| By and by hoi mai oe | By and by you will return |
| I anei kāua e lai ai | Here you and I will spend our days in rapture |
| E ae ana paha wau i ka ualo | I shall perhaps yield to the urge |
| I ka leo hea a ka pololei | To the calling voice of the land shell |
| E hoi aku no wau e pili | E shall return to be close |
| Me ka ua Kipuu o ka nahele | With the Kipuu rain of the forest |
| Mehe ua noe ala ko aloha | Like a misty rain is your love |
| E hana mau nei kuu nui kino | That thrills my whole being |
| O kou kai ia e makoi ai | It is the love which you tender |
| Ui aa ia pua i ka nani | That flower glows with beauty |
Ka Ōiwi Nani
Ka Ōiwi Nani, translated as The Beautiful Native, is a love song composed and translated by Liliuokalani on June 23, 1886, at PaloloPalolo, Hawaii
Pālolo is a valley, stream, and residential neighborhood of Honolulu, Hawaii, United States. It lies approximately four miles east and inland from downtown Honolulu, and less than a mile from Diamond Head. Like many of Hawaii's neighborhoods, Pālolo consists of an entire valley. The mauka of...
, Oahu
Oahu
Oahu or Oahu , known as "The Gathering Place", is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and most populous of the islands in the U.S. state of Hawaii. The state capital Honolulu is located on the southeast coast...
.
In The Queen's Songbook, editors Dorothy Kahananui Gillett and Barbara Barnard Smith note that it's not a surprise that this love song from 1886, when Lili‘uokalani was still a princess
Princess
Princess is the feminine form of prince . Most often, the term has been used for the consort of a prince, or his daughters....
, comes from a time when her diaries "are strewn with references to a special 'friend', perhaps Henry Berger." Berger was the director of the Royal Hawaiian Band
Royal Hawaiian Band
The Royal Hawaiian Band is the oldest and only full-time municipal band in the United States. At present a body of the City & County of Honolulu, the Royal Hawaiian Band has been entertaining Honolulu residents and visitors since its inception in 1836 by Kamehameha III...
, and Gillett and Smith note the possibility "that the song celebrates a romantic liaison" with him. Even the title, which translates to "The Beautiful Form", or as the Queen herself translated it, Beautiful One, has possible romantic associations. It is one of the most compelling melodies of the Queen's songs, and I arranged it so the second verse is played in a relaxed 12/8 ballad style.
| I ke ahiahi Pōakolu | It was on a Wednesday evening |
| Kuu ike ana iho | That tidings came to me |
| He alele waha ole na ke aloha | A voiceless message from my loved one |
| E ī mai ana iau | And thus it said to me |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| E ī mai ana ī mai ana | And thus it said, thus it said to me |
| Aia Keala i ka nahele | Keala has gone to the woodland |
| Kahi i walea ai | And while on her downy bed of Palai |
| I ka olu o ia uka | She inhales the perfume of the flowers |
| A he nani io nō ia pua | Bright and lovely indeed is that blossom |
| Me he lāī pala ala ka memele | Likened to the lāī pala (yellow ti leaf) so fair |
| Ka ōiwi nani o ke kā makahala | Or the beautiful form of the ka makahala |
| Lamalama i ka uka o Lanihuli | That sheds radiance over all of Lanihuli |
Ka Hanu O Hanakeoki
Ka Hanu O Hanakeoki, translated as The Scent of Hanakeoki, or sometimes plainly called Hanakeoki, is a famous song composed by Lili'uokalani in 1874. It a piece mentioned in "The Queen's Songbook" and translated into English by Hui Hânai. The song may allude to property the Queen owned in Pālolo Valley.| Nani wale ka hiona o ka manu lā | The features of the bird are so beautiful |
| O ka iiwi maka onaona pōlena lā | The sweet-eyed iiwi Iiwi The Iiwi or Scarlet Hawaiian Honeycreeper is a Hawaiian "hummingbird-niched" species, of the Hawaiian honeycreepers, subfamily, Drepanidinae, and the only member of the genus Vestiaria. It is one of the most plentiful species of this family, many of which are endangered or extinct, the iiwi is a... pōlena |
| Noho i ka malu lāau lā | Dwelling in the shade of the forest |
| Ulunahele pō i ka lehua lā | Forest overshadowed with lehua Lehua Lehua is a small, crescent-shaped island in the Hawaiian islands, only north of Niihau, due west of Kauai. The uninhabited, barren island is a tuff cone which is part of the extinct Niihau volcano.... flowers |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| Ilihia wau i ke ala lā | I am overwhelmed with the fragrance |
| O ka hanu o Hanakeoki lā | The scent of Hanakeoki |
| Punihei ka manao hoohihi lā | My thoughts are engulfed |
| Hanu aala o Hanakeoki | By the sweet scent of Hanakeoki |
| Alia oe e ka amakihi lā | Wait amakihi |
| Manu puapua lenalena lā | Yellow-tailed bird |
| E ālai nei i ka wai lā | Obstructing the water |
| Wai hālukuluku i ka pali lā | Water rushing noisily upon the cliff |
| E inu aku wau i kena lā | I want to drink the water to quench my thirst |
| I ka wai lehua a ka manu lā | On the bird's lehua nectar |
| Hō iho kāua eloelo lā | Let's you and I indulge and be drenched |
| A hoi a e hoolailai lā | Then return to find contentment |
Kuu Pua I Paoakalani
Kuu Pua I Paoakalani, often referred to simply as Paoakalani, is a famous song composed by Queen Lili'uokalani while imprisoned in 'Iolani Palace. It is about her garden in Paoaokalani, from which a loyal haoleHaole
Haole , in the Hawaiian language, is generally used to refer to an individual that fits one of the following: "White person, American, Englishman, Caucasian; American, English; formerly, any foreigner; foreign, introduced, of foreign origin, as plants, pigs, chickens"...
supporter, John Wilson (whose mother, Evelyn T. Wilson, went into voluntary imprisonment with the Queen) regularly brought her flowers. These flowers were wrapped in newspaper, through which means she was able to read the news that was prohibited to her during her imprisonment. The song is a tribute to this young man, whom she held in very high esteem.
Performance of the song is known to be vocally challenging in terms of range, timing, power, and breath control. One of the most famous recorded renditions was made by activist/singer George Helm
George Helm
George Jarrett Helm, Jr. was a Native Hawaiian activist and musician from Kalamaula, Molokai, Hawaii. He graduated from St. Louis High School on Oahu, about which he said, "I came to Oahu to get educated. Instead I lost my innocence." While at St...
on the first live album that was released after his death in the Kaho'olawe struggle.
| E ka gentle breeze e ka mai nei | O gentle breeze that waft to me |
| Hoohālialia mai ana iau | Sweet, cherished memories of you |
| E kuu sweet never fading flower | Of my sweet never fading flower |
| I bloom i ka uka o Paoakalani | That blooms in the fields of Paoakalani |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| Ike mau i ka nani o nā pua | I've often seen those beauteous flowers |
| O ka uka o Uluhaimalama | That grew at Uluhaimalama |
| Aole nae hoi e like | But none of those could be compared, |
| Me kuu pua i ka lai o | To my flower that blooms in the fields of |
| Paoakalani | Paoakalani |
| Lahilahi kona ma hiona | Her face is fair to behold |
| With softest eyes as black as jet | With softest eyes as black as jet |
| Pink cheeks so delicate of hue | Pink cheeks so delicate of hue |
| I ulu i ka uka o Paoakalani | That grew in the fields of Paoakalani |
| Nane ia mai ana kuu aloha | Now name to me the one I love |
| E ka gentle breeze e waft mai nei | Gentle breezes passing by |
| O come to me kau mea e lia nei | And bring to me that blossom fair |
| I ulu ika uka o Paoakalani | That blooms in the fields of Paoakalani |
Manu Kapalulu
Manu Kapalulu, translated to Quail, is one of the numerous songs and chants composed by Queen Lili'uokalani. Composed in November 1878, this was an admonishment from Liliuokalani to a disparaging remark. According to Hawaiian traditions lessons in life and morality were usually taught in music and riddles. Manu Kapalulu was about the queen's annoyance with someone.This song has many allusion to Hawaiian mythology. The Kilohana in verse 1, stanza 2 is in Kalihi Valley on O'ahu and was the sacred home of Haumea and Wakea
Wakea
In Hawaiian mythology, Wākea is the eldest son of Kahiko , and lives in Olalowaia. Wākea is the ancestor of the aristocracy, the ali‘i. The priests and common people come from his brothers. In another legend, Wākea lives in Hihiku and marries Pāpā, also called Pāpā-nui or Pāpā-nui-hanau-moku, who...
. Verse 2, stanzas 3 and 4 is an allusion to the old Hawaiian religion. Although Lili`uokalani embraced Christianity, she was very familiar with the practice of worshipping and feeding na aumakua
Aumakua
In Hawaiian mythology, an aumakua is a family god, often a deified ancestor. The Hawaiian plural of aumakua is nā aumākua , although in English the plural is usually aumakuas. Nā aumākua frequently manifested as animals such as sharks or owls. Nā aumākua were worshipped at localities where they...
(family gods). Kapo, the dark sorceress in verse 3, stanza 4, is Kapo`ula`kïna`u, the dual-natured goddess, daughter of Haumea and Wakea, and sister of Pele and Kamohoali`i
Kamohoalii
In Hawaiian mythology, Ka-moho-alii is a shark god and a brother of Kāne Milohai, Pele, Kapo, Nāmaka and Hiiaka.Ka-moho-ali'i swam in the area around Maui and Kahoolawe. When a ship was lost at sea, Ka-moho-alii shook his tail in front of the fleet and the kahuna would feed him "awa" , and...
. Her benevolent nature was Laka
Laka
In Hawaiian mythology, Laka is the name of a popular hero from Polynesian mythology....
, the goddess of hula
Hula
Hula is a dance form accompanied by chant or song . It was developed in the Hawaiian Islands by the Polynesians who originally settled there. The hula dramatizes or portrays the words of the oli or mele in a visual dance form....
. This song also served as a mele inoa (name song) for Princess Ka'iulani
Ka'iulani
Victoria Kaiulani Kalaninuiahilapalapa Kawēkiu i Lunalilo Cleghorn was heir to the throne of the Kingdom of Hawaii and held the title of crown princess. Kaiulani became known throughout the world for her intelligence, beauty and determination...
| Noho nani iluna ke ao ōpua | Beauty dwells on a rain cloud |
| Kapu ihi kapu i Kilohana | Sacred at Kilohana |
| Haiamū ihola ka lehua | The lehua trees is surrounded by |
| I nā manu | The birds |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| Kulikuli au iā oe manu kapalulu | Be quiet, you quail |
| Hana wale mai nō iau | Who nags me |
| He aha hoi oe i kou manao | You are nothing, in my opinion |
| Ae nō hoi | Yes, indeed |
| Ōlelo ana oe i ko hai kee | You talk of the faults of others |
| Eia iho nō me oe | Yet there is |
| Nā aumakua pee i ka poli | An aumakua Aumakua In Hawaiian mythology, an aumakua is a family god, often a deified ancestor. The Hawaiian plural of aumakua is nā aumākua , although in English the plural is usually aumakuas. Nā aumākua frequently manifested as animals such as sharks or owls. Nā aumākua were worshipped at localities where they... hiding in your bosom |
| I ao lūau ia | That is fed sacrifices |
| Kiina kahuna i Hawaii | The darkness of Hawaii is consulted |
| Kūkulu nā hailona | Signs and omens are sought |
| Kuhikuhi ke ola iā Kapo | Kapo is honored |
| O ia nō hoi | This is so, indeed |
| Noho iho nā oe ae pono iho | Stay and enjoy what you have |
| I kou pōmaikai nui | Your great blessing |
| Ike ia ai he ulakolako | Your prosperity be known |
| O ia nō hoi | This is so, indeed |
Nani Nā Pua Koolau
Nani Nā Pua Koolau, translated as The Flower of Ko'olau or Beautiful Are the Flowers of Ko'olau is a song composed by Queen Lili'uokalani. Written in 1860, this was one of Liliuokalani's first published works or probably the first; it was published in 1869 both in HawaiianHawaiian language
The Hawaiian language is a Polynesian language that takes its name from Hawaii, the largest island in the tropical North Pacific archipelago where it developed. Hawaiian, along with English, is an official language of the state of Hawaii...
and English, one of her first works to appear in print. It was signed L.K. (Lydia Kamaka'eha) Pākī, the name she used until her marriage in 1862 to John Owen Dominis
John Owen Dominis
John Owen Dominis was an American-born statesman. He became Prince Consort of the Kingdom of Hawaii upon his marriage to the last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani...
. The English translation is by Liliuokalani herself.
This song demonstrates her poetic skills in which romantic love, love of nature and love of the land are happily entwined. This setting was written for the popular Pacific Rim Choral Festival which takes place in Hawaii each summer.
| Nani nā pua Koolau | The flowers of Koolau in their beauty |
| I memele i ka uka | Fill the vale, fill with golden gleam |
| Ka uka o Kuihanalei | I cull and wreathe them for my loved one |
| I lei mau no ke aloha | At morn and night she fills my waking dream |
| Auhea wale ana oe | Where are you, fairest of all fair ones |
| E ka pua o ka lokelani | Where are you sweetest of all sweets |
| O ka oi aku nō oe | You are a flower of Paradise |
| Ma mua o ka nae ala | That the morning breeze ever kindly greets |
| Mahalo au o ka nani | I praise your beauty, my fair one |
| Nā lehua o Līhau | You are the flower of all flowers to me |
| He ala kūpaoa | The lehua flower whose ardent sweetness |
| Anuanu o ka nahele | Overpowers the wanderer over the lea |
| I wili ia me ka maile | And I cry "where are you, my loved one" |
| Laulii o Koiahi | My spirit wants to be with you |
| Auhea lā ia pua | To taste hours of tranquil pleasure |
| Akipohe o Halealoha | And wander neath Koiahi's tree |
| Ua ola nā kaua | The trilling notes of hidden songsters |
| I ka wai huna a ka manu | As they sport around the jasmine Jasmine Jasminum , commonly known as jasmines, is a genus of shrubs and vines in the olive family . It contains around 200 species native to tropical and warm temperate regions of the Old World... bower |
| He ala pua pīkake | The scent yet in my memory lingers |
| Huli au a hoomaū | Reminds me of you, the fairest flowers |
| Auhea wale ana oe | Of Viliau, the sweetest blossom |
| E ka pua o ka Viliau | Without you, my life is lonely |
| Hoi mai nō kāua | Come fill my hours with bliss, I pray thee |
| E pili me ke aloha | My flower, my bird, my chief and chosen one |
Ka Wiliwili Wai
Ka Wiliwili Wai, sometimes plainly called Wiliwiliwai, translated to The Lawn Sprinkler or The Twisting of the Water, is a famous song composed by Queen Lili'uokalani who wrote the words and the music. The story behind the song goes: As the Queen was sitting on her lanai at Washington PlaceWashington Place
Washington Place is a Greek Revival palace in the Hawaii Capital Historic District in Honolulu, Hawaii. It was where Queen Liliuokalani was arrested during the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Later it became the official residence of the Governor of Hawaii. It is a National Historic Landmark,...
, she saw something unusual next door in her neighbor, Dr. McKibben's yard, a lawn sprinkler going round and round. Fascinated, the Queen watched for a long time spinning this tune to its rhythm.
Lyrics
| E ka wiliwiliwai | O lawn sprinkler |
| Ko`iawe i ka la`i | Circling quietly |
| A heaha kau hana | What are you doing |
| E naue mâlie nei | As you silently revolve? |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| Ei nei, ei nei | Say there, say there |
| ’E poahi mai nei | You revolving object |
| Ahea, ahea | When, oh when |
| `Oe kaohi mai | Will you slow down |
| O kîpau o ia la | Unusually active |
| Ua nihinihi | Sending out sprays like rain |
| Ku`u iki iho ho`i | Lessen your speed |
| I inu aku au | That I may drink |
Pauahi O Kalani
Pauahi O Kalani, translated as Pauahi, The Royal One, was composed by Liliuokalani in 1868. It honors Princess Bernice Pauahi BishopBernice Pauahi Bishop
Bernice Pauahi Bishop , born Bernice Pauahi Pākī, was a Hawaiian princess, philanthropist, alii, and direct descendant of the royal House of Kamehameha. She was the great-granddaughter of King Kamehameha I and last surviving heir...
, the great-granddaughter of Kamehameha I
Kamehameha I
Kamehameha I , also known as Kamehameha the Great, conquered the Hawaiian Islands and formally established the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1810. By developing alliances with the major Pacific colonial powers, Kamehameha preserved Hawaii's independence under his rule...
and Liliuokalani's beloved foster sister. It was written in 1868 prior to the accession of Liliuokalani's family. They were on a trip to the island of Hawaii
Hawaii (island)
The Island of Hawaii, also called the Big Island or Hawaii Island , is a volcanic island in the North Pacific Ocean...
and had visited Puna
Puna, Hawaii
Puna is one of the nine districts in Hawaii County, Big Island, Hawaii. The District of Puna is located on the easternmost portion of the island and shares borders to the north with the District of South Hilo and a border to the west with the District of Kaū...
and the Panaewa forest in the Hilo district. Liliuokalani wrote this song at Mānā. The Bishop Estate, Pauahi's continuing legacy, created and maintains the Kamehameha Schools
Kamehameha Schools
Kamehameha Schools , formerly called Kamehameha Schools/Bishop Estate , is a private co-educational college-preparatory institution that specializes in Native Hawaiian language and cultural education. It is located in Hawaii and operates three campuses: Kapālama , Pukalani , and Keaau...
. High school students at Kamehameha sing this song every year on Founder's Day, 19 December, the date of Pauahi's birth. The song was translated by Mary Kawena Pukui
Mary Kawena Pukui
Mary Abigail Kawenaulaokalaniahiiakaikapoliopelekawahineaihonuaināleilehuaapele Wiggin Pukui , known as Kawena, was a Hawaiian scholar, dancer, composer, and educator.-Life:...
.
Lyrics
| Noho ana ka wahine i ke anu o Mānā | The woman dwells in the cold of Mānā |
| Mahalo i ka nani nohea o ka nahele | Admiring the lovely beauty of the forest |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| E ola o Kalani e Pauahi lani nui | Long live, Pauahi, the heavenly one |
| A kau i ka pua aneane | To extreme old age |
| E ola o Kalani e Pauahi lani nui | Long live, Pauahi, the heavenly one |
| E ola loa nō a kau i ka wēkiu | Live until she reaches the highest place |
| Ua ike i na paia aala hoi o Puna | She has seen the fragrant bowers of Puna |
| Ua lei na maile ao Panaewa hoi | And has worn leis of maile of Panaewa |
| Hoi ana no nae ke aloha i na kini | But her love returns to multitudes |
| I ke one hānau i ka home i ke kaona | Of her birthplace, the home in the town |
Pelekane
Liliuokalani composed Pelekane, translated as England or Britain, in 1887 after she and Queen KapiolaniQueen Kapiolani
Queen Kapiolani formally Esther Kapiolani or Esther Kapiolani Napelakapuokakae, was married to King David Kalākaua and reigned as Queen Consort of the Kingdom of Hawaii.-Life:...
went to England for the Golden Jubilee
Golden Jubilee
A Golden Jubilee is a celebration held to mark a 50th anniversary.- In Thailand :King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-reigning monarch, celebrated his Golden Jubilee on 9 June 1996.- In the Commonwealth Realms :...
of Queen Victoria
Victoria of the United Kingdom
Victoria was the monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 20 June 1837 until her death. From 1 May 1876, she used the additional title of Empress of India....
. On this occasion, Queen Kapiolani wore a parure
Parure
A parure is a set of various items of matching jewelry, which rose to popularity in 17th century Europe.Beyond various items of matching jewelry, a parure is an entire wardrobe, or suite, of matching jewelry...
of catseye shells and a gown embroidered with blue peacock feathers. In the second verse, Liliuokalani describes the British Queen-Empress as the topmost blossom.
| Nani wale hoi kuu ike ana | It was wonderful to see |
| Kēlā āina kamahao | That marvelous country |
| Āina kaulana i ka nani | Land famed for its beauty |
| Ka ikaika me ka hanohano | Its strength and majesty |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| I laila kuu upu kuu lia | Fond recollections and admiration |
| Ka manao nui e waiho ae nei | Remains ever with me |
| O ka ike lihi aku iā Pelekane | I have caught a glimpse of England |
| A he nani ia ae ua hiki nō | Tales of its beauty are indeed true |
| Kuko no loko a hookō | My desire to see was fulfilled |
| E ike i ka pua i ka wēkiu | I have seen the topmost blossom |
| Honi ka makani o laila | I have inhaled the air there |
| I ka hane welelau i kuu papālina | And felt the breeze brush my cheek |
Pelekane by Elizabeth Kuahaia
Another song of the same title, written by Elizabeth Kuahaia, is a song about the innocence lost in globalizationGlobalization
Globalization refers to the increasingly global relationships of culture, people and economic activity. Most often, it refers to economics: the global distribution of the production of goods and services, through reduction of barriers to international trade such as tariffs, export fees, and import...
/modernization
Modernization
In the social sciences, modernization or modernisation refers to a model of an evolutionary transition from a 'pre-modern' or 'traditional' to a 'modern' society. The teleology of modernization is described in social evolutionism theories, existing as a template that has been generally followed by...
. It is about the sinking of the ship, the , in 1915. It was an event that helped create the concept of a "World War
World war
A world war is a war affecting the majority of the world's most powerful and populous nations. World wars span multiple countries on multiple continents, with battles fought in multiple theaters....
."
Pelekane means "Britain" and reveals the long-standing affinity that the Native Hawaiian people felt for England. It was the British that the Hawaiian Kingdom attempted to emulate and identify with – so much so that the royal contingent traveled to England to attend Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887 and adopted the "Union Jack" symbol in the Kingdom of Hawaii
Kingdom of Hawaii
The Kingdom of Hawaii was established during the years 1795 to 1810 with the subjugation of the smaller independent chiefdoms of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lānai, Kauai and Niihau by the chiefdom of Hawaii into one unified government...
flag
Flag of Hawaii
The flag of the state of Hawaii is the official standard symbolizing Hawaii as a U.S. state. The same flag had also previously been used by the kingdom, protectorate, republic, and territory of Hawaii...
. This song may refer to England owning the Lusitania.
Unlike most other Native Hawaiian songs, it is written without the beautiful imagery of nature. Instead, it describes the use of explosives and torpedo
Torpedo
The modern torpedo is a self-propelled missile weapon with an explosive warhead, launched above or below the water surface, propelled underwater towards a target, and designed to detonate either on contact with it or in proximity to it.The term torpedo was originally employed for...
s. This is warfare without warriors in hand-to-hand combat, with the concept of "civilians" redefined by wholesale destruction of places. In a way, this is a modern protest song is in the style of Kaulana Nā Pua
Kaulana Na Pua
Kaulana Nā Pua is a Hawaiian patriotic song written by Ellen Kehoʻohiwaokalani Wright Prendergast in 1893...
. This piece foreshadows the militarization of Hawai`i as the Western outpost for United States military forces. This militarization of the islands is an important aspect of Native Hawaiian experience. Not only are many areas reserved by the military, but the island economy is dependent upon it.
Lyrics
| Hakakā kaulana puni i ke ao lā | Famous conflict throughout the world |
| Ke kaua weliweli ma Eulopa | The terrible war in Europe |
| Ma ka nūpepa i ha`i maila lā | In the newspapers it said |
| `O ka topeto kau i ka beli | The torpedo struck the belly (of the ship) |
| Weliweli nā hana ke `ike aku lā | Dreadful deeds, horrible to look upon |
| `O nei lima koko he aloha `ole | Merciless bloody hands |
| Ha`ina `ia mai `ana ka puana lā | Let the story be told |
| Ke kaua weliweli ma Eulopa | Of the terrible war in Europe |
Puna Paia Aala
Puna Paia Aala, translated to Puna's Fragrant Bowers, and other translation include Puna's Fragrant Glades and Puna's Sweet Walls. It is famous love song composed by Queen Liliuokalani in July 1868, who composed a total of 165 pieces in her life. The setting is the Puna DistrictPuna, Hawaii
Puna is one of the nine districts in Hawaii County, Big Island, Hawaii. The District of Puna is located on the easternmost portion of the island and shares borders to the north with the District of South Hilo and a border to the west with the District of Kaū...
on the Island of Hawaii
Hawaii (island)
The Island of Hawaii, also called the Big Island or Hawaii Island , is a volcanic island in the North Pacific Ocean...
, which was renowned for its groves of fragrant hala (Pandanus tectorius
Pandanus tectorius
Pandanus tectorius is a species of Pandanus that is native to Malesia, eastern Australia, and the Pacific Islands. Common names include Thatch Screwpine, Hala , Bacua , and Vacquois ....
). The first two verses were published in He Buke Mele Hawaii and the third verse is from a Bishop Museum manuscript. The fourth verse was preserved by Bill Kaiwa. Verse 1, 2, and hui translated by Liliuokalani. Verses 3 and 4 translated by Hui Hānai.
Along with Ahe Lau Makani and Paia Ka Nahele, composed in the same year, these two waltz
Waltz
The waltz is a ballroom and folk dance in time, performed primarily in closed position.- History :There are several references to a sliding or gliding dance,- a waltz, from the 16th century including the representations of the printer H.S. Beheim...
es are especially evident in the hui, or chorus
Refrain
A refrain is the line or lines that are repeated in music or in verse; the "chorus" of a song...
, of Puna Paia Aala. These three song that took the form as waltzes, were a fresh departure for Liliu. Their lyrics are full of romance, and the rhythmic buoyancy and grace of the music place them among her most memorable melodies.
Lyrics
| Iā Puna paia aala | Puna's bowery walls of fragrance are |
| Pili mau na ke ona ona | Groves laden with sweet flowers |
| I laila ke kāunu ana | There is where my heart yearns to be |
| Kau pono ana na ka manao | To dwell there is my sincere desire |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| Puna paia aala | Puna's shaded bowery walls |
| Kilihea i ke onaona | Pleasant and redolent with perfume |
| Ona wela i ke aloha | Sweet language, full of love |
| Ua lawa iā oe me au | Binding you to me, forever |
| Hoohihi i ka nani | I long to see you |
| Pua mai a ka lehua | Flower of the lehua Metrosideros polymorpha The ōhia lehua is a species of flowering evergreen tree in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, that is endemic to the six largest islands of Hawaii. It is a highly variable tree, being tall in favorable situations, and much smaller when growing in boggy soils or on basalt... |
| Ānehe au e kii | Let me take you and pluck you |
| I pua kau no kuu umauma | And press you close to me |
| O ka ike keia | Now that I know |
| O wau nō kou hoa like | That you and I are alike |
| Pelā iho hoi kāua | Let us wait a while |
| Ke ano lai mai nei ka ōpua | As the cloud bank reposes in serenity |
| Hai lohi ka manao | The thought is slow to conjure |
| Lolii nā pua i ka iu | As the blossoms above repose |
| Kali ana holono i ka leo | Awaiting, listening for the voice |
| A hea mai e hookomo wau | To call one to come in |
Sanoe
Sanoe, is a famous song composed by Queen Liliuokalani who wrote the words and the music. "Sanoe" is the Hawaiian word meaning - the mist that drifts over our mountains - and alludes to the man drifting in like the mist to see his ipo (sweetheart). It is in the Queen's Song Book and also in He Mele Aloha. Lili'uokalani composed this while still a princessPrincess
Princess is the feminine form of prince . Most often, the term has been used for the consort of a prince, or his daughters....
in the court of her brother King David Kalakaua. The song describes a possibly clandestine love affair or romance in the royal court. This version is based on Robert Cazimero's choral arrangement for the Kamehameha Schools Song Contest. Steve composed the interlude between the second and third verses for this recording. Queen Lili'uokalani originally wrote Sanoe in common time, though today it is almost always performed in triple meter. Where and how this change occurred is a mystery Steve is interested in solving.
This affair in the royal court is centered on Sanoe, the woman, who was probably Kapeka; the gentleman, is unknown. Kapeka was the joint composer to this song. Queen Lili‘uokalani indicates she composed Sanoe with "Kapeka", her friend who's real name was Elizabeth Sumner Achuck.
Sanoe was brought back into general circulation by 'ukulele master Eddie Kamae and Gabby with the Sons of Hawaii on "MUSIC OF OLD HAWAII".
Lyrics
| `Auhea `oe e Sanoe | Where can you be, Sanoe? |
| Ho`opulu liko ka lehua | Moistened by the lehua buds |
| Eia ho`i au | Here I am |
| Ke kali nei i ko leo | Waiting to hear your voice |
| `O ka pane wale mai no | For the answer only you can give |
| `Olu wau mehe wai `ala | Refreshing with a sweet perfume Perfume Perfume is a mixture of fragrant essential oils and/or aroma compounds, fixatives, and solvents used to give the human body, animals, objects, and living spaces "a pleasant scent"... |
| Honehone me he ipo ala | Appealing softly as a sweetheart |
| Paila i ka nui kino | Stirring the whole body |
| E kala neia kino | It's been a while since this body |
| I piliwi ai i laila | Believed all that was there |
| E ko ai o ka mana`o | How is it possible |
| Pehea e hiki ai | To fulfill thoughts of love? |
| Ke hea mai nei water lily | The water lily warns us |
| Ke ao mai `oe ia kaua | Be careful |
| Eia a`e no o pelo | Here comes the carrier of tales |
| Manu `aha`i `olelo | The bird who gossips |
| Lohe aku nei na kuhina nui | The titled persons have heard |
| A he `ahahui ko Loma | Of a gathering in Rome |
| Ke `oni a`e la iluna | Moving now upward |
| E like me Likelike | Like the Princess Likelike Likelike Miriam Kapili Kekāuluohi Likelike was a Princess of the Kingdom of Hawaii, sister of the last two ruling monarchs, mother of Princess Kaiulani, last heir to the throne, and mistress of the [[ʻĀinahau]] estate.-Life:... |
The Queen's Jubilee
The Queen's Jubilee is a famous song composed by Princess Lili'uokalani of Hawai'i to commemorate the Golden JubileeGolden Jubilee
A Golden Jubilee is a celebration held to mark a 50th anniversary.- In Thailand :King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-reigning monarch, celebrated his Golden Jubilee on 9 June 1996.- In the Commonwealth Realms :...
of Queen Victoria of England, which Princess Lili'uokalani attended with a royal contingent from Hawai'i.
Lyrics
| Mahalo piha, Mōʻī ʻo ʻEnelani | All hail to you, Great Queen of England Queen regnant A queen regnant is a female monarch who reigns in her own right, in contrast to a queen consort, who is the wife of a reigning king. An empress regnant is a female monarch who reigns in her own right over an empire.... |
| Kuʻi kou kaulana nā ʻāina pau | Fair Queen who rules over land and sea |
| Na kai ākau nā one hema | From northern seas to southern shores |
| ʻIkea kou ʻihi mana nui | Your way is known both far and near |
| Eia mākou i kou kapa kai | We come to your shores, gracious lady |
| ʻI kou lā nui Iubilī | On this great day of your Jubilee Golden Jubilee A Golden Jubilee is a celebration held to mark a 50th anniversary.- In Thailand :King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-reigning monarch, celebrated his Golden Jubilee on 9 June 1996.- In the Commonwealth Realms :... |
| I hiʻi mai i kou mākou aloha | To bring kind greetings from afar |
| Maluna ou ka malu o ka Lani | May heaven bless you, long may you reigntd |
| Hauʻoliʻoli ʻEmepela o ʻInia | All hail, all hail, Empress of India |
| I kēia makahiki Iubili | In this your year of Jubilee |
| ʻĀkoakoa nā aliʻi ʻaimoku | Now kings, queens and princes great |
| A puni ke ao holoʻokoʻa | Have all assembled here today |
| E hiʻilani e mililani | To pay due homage and reverent love |
| Ua hui pūʻia me Hawaiʻi | Hawaii joins with loyal fervor |
| E uhi mai ka lani i kona nani | May Heaven smile on you |
| E ola ka mōʻī ke Akua | God bless the Queen, long may she live |
The Queen's Prayer
The Queen's Prayer, or in Hawaiian Ke Aloha O Ka Haku. It was published as Liliuokalani's Prayer, with the Hawaiian title and English translation ("The Lord's Mercy") now commonly called "The Queen's Prayer". It is a famous mele, composed by Queen Liliuokalani, March 22, 1895, while she was under house arrest at Iolani Palace. This hymn was dedicated to Victoria Kaiulani, her niece and heir apparentHeir apparent
An heir apparent or heiress apparent is a person who is first in line of succession and cannot be displaced from inheriting, except by a change in the rules of succession....
to the throne.
Queen Liliuokalani wrote this at the bottom of the manuscript: "Composed during my imprisonment at Iolani Palace by the Missionary party who overthrew my government." She was referring to the illegal Overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy
Overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy
Until the 1890s the Kingdom of Hawaii was an independent sovereign state, recognized by the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and Germany. Though there were threats to Hawaii's sovereignty throughout the Kingdom's history, it was not until the signing, under duress, of the Bayonet...
by U.S. business interests backed by the U.S. government. "Ironically, the song is about the values she embraced from the Western culture that imprisoned her, the values of forgiveness, love, faith and hope."
Lyrics
| O kou aloha nō | Your loving mercy |
| Aia i ka lani | Is as high as Heaven |
| A o Kou oia io | And your truth |
| He hemolele hoi | So perfect |
| Kou noho mihi ana | I live in sorrow |
| A paahao ia | Imprisoned |
| O oe kuu lama | You are my light |
| Kou nani kou koo | Your glory, my support |
| Mai nānā inoino | Behold not with malevolence |
| Nā hewa o kānaka | The sins of man |
| Akā e huikala | But forgive |
| A maemae nō | And cleanse |
| No laila e ka Haku | And so, o Lord |
| Ma lalo o kou ēheu | Protect us beneath your wings |
| Kō mākou maluhia | And let peace be our portion |
| A mau loa aku nō | Now and forever more |
| Āmene | Amen Amen The word amen is a declaration of affirmation found in the Hebrew Bible and New Testament. Its use in Judaism dates back to its earliest texts. It has been generally adopted in Christian worship as a concluding word for prayers and hymns. In Islam, it is the standard ending to Dua and the... |
Tūtū
Tūtū, translated as Granny, is a famous mele hulaHula
Hula is a dance form accompanied by chant or song . It was developed in the Hawaiian Islands by the Polynesians who originally settled there. The hula dramatizes or portrays the words of the oli or mele in a visual dance form....
composed by Queen Liliuokalani. Mentioned in the song is Kaalaalaa, which refers to the area of lower Nuuanu below Maemae Hill. This hula was composed for a benefit program at Kaumakapili Church in Palama. Maria Heleluhe danced the part of the tūtū (granny) and 7 little girls performed as the grandchildren. The Queen taught the girls to sing the song with her and she accompanied them on her guitar. The song received 5 encores and the performers were showered with money.
Lyrics
| Aia i Kaalaalaa | There lived at Kaalaalaa |
| Kuu wahi kupuna wahine | My aged, dear old grandmother |
| Ua nui kona mau lā | Her days were full of numbers |
| O ka noho ana i ke ao nei | That she lived in this world of care |
| Kana hana i ke kakahiaka | Her first duty in the morning |
| O ka wehe i ka Paipala nui | Was to turn to the great Bible Bible The Bible refers to any one of the collections of the primary religious texts of Judaism and Christianity. There is no common version of the Bible, as the individual books , their contents and their order vary among denominations... |
| Kii akula i nā makaaniani | Then searching for her glasses |
| A penei e kau ai | She'd place them on her nose |
| Hui: | Chorus: |
| E aloha kākou iā ia | Now we must all show her reverence |
| E mālama kākou iā tūtū | We must all love our dear Tûtû |
| E hoano kākou iā ia | We must do all to honor her |
| Ko kākou kupuna wahine | Our dear Grandma Tûtû |
| A kau mai e ke ahiahi | As the hour of eve drew near |
| Hoomākaukau e pule | She'd prepare for eve's devotion |
| Kii akula i nā makaaniani | And now seeks her glasses |
| Auwe! Ua nalowale | But lo, they are not there |
| Aia i kā lae | She had placed them on her forehead |
| I ka lae kahi kau ai | High up above her brow |
| Ua poina loa ia | And there she soon forgot them |
| I luna i ka lae | High up above her forehead |