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Hula Sista’ Nahenahe – DJ Appreciation Spotlight

December 5, 2025 - 10:30 am

Nahenahe headshot - KBCS DJ logo brown and green with text

Nahenahe began as a KBCS DJ in 2013 

 

Establishment

My birth name is Melodi. And that name fits me perfectly for this lifetime (as does “Nahenahe” which refers to my singing voice). 

I began my “musical career” singing in Sunday School and church. I never held back when singing in a group. It felt so freeing, so natural. I received an acoustic guitar and took guitar lessons for several years from various local musicians. I also play percussion and have performed in stage bands, pep bands, marching bands, rock bands (where I was a lead singer), concert bands, and orchestras. I also play when my halau performs. 

I met a Hawaiian man who was an incredible guitar player. We began performing together and I mentioned my love of Hawaiian music. That conversation connected me to Halau Hula ‘O Lono under the direction of Kumu Hula Manuiki Ho’opi’i Lono. Eventually, I joined Aunty’ Manu’s halau in Burien. Little did I know at that time she is a Hawaiian icon. When Aunty Manu learned that I could sing and play guitar and percussion…I was in! That was 20 years ago. 

Through performing with Aunty Manu for many years, I met other musicians and dancers. That is how I met Braddah Stephen Gomes, at that time a DJ at 91.3 KBCS on the Hawaii Radio Connection at that time. In 2013 my hula sistah, Puanani and I were approached while we were off stage waiting to dance our number. Braddah Gomes introduced himself and insisted we attend his DJ training class at Bellevue College in order to become DJs. 

I have always found music uplifting, and it feeds my soul in multiple ways. Especially Hawaiian music. I choose a mele (song) to play on my show for a specific reason. It just seems to touch my pu’uwai (heart) whenever I need a “lift”. And my intention is for my music choices to touch our listeners as well.   

That’s what it’s all about…And that is why I remain as a DJ on HRC at KBCS 

What album do you feel changed your life? 

  • Meet the Beatles 

Pen, typewriter, computer, device: 

  • Something official, I use the computer 
  • Something personal, I create with a pen 

Favorite… 

  • Film: Dances with Wolves 
  • Songs: “E Ku’u Morning Dew”; “Honolulu City Lights”; “Ka Makani Ka’ili Aloha” 
  • Art Piece: Moan Lisa 
  • Quote: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going!” 
  • Album that Changed My Life: Meet the Beatles   

How long have you been hosting your show?    

  • Since 2013 

What song or album do you most identify with, which inspired your energy to be a DJ? 

  • “Haleiwa” by Amy Hanaiali’i 

Your most recent concert: 

  • Henry Kapono and Kapono Beamer 

Recent Feature film or a Favorite film: 

  • Fav Film: “Dances with Wolves” 

Favorite recommended song or album for the evening: 

  • “Akaka Falls” by Nathan Aweau 

Favorite recommended song or album for sunset: 

  • “All By Myself” by Celine 

Favorite recommended song or album for the morning: 

  • “Ka Makani Ka’ili Aloha” by Amy Hanaiali’i 

Favorite recommended song or album for dawn: 

  • “The Power of Love” by Celine 

What album do you love or really enjoy that might surprise your listeners? 

  • “Back in Black” album by ACDC 

Favorite piece of art: 

  • Any Native American artwork 

A favorite quote or song that keeps you going: 

  • “When the going gets tough, the tough get going”