Musician. Born in Honolulu, named Solomon Ho'opi'i Ka'ai'ai, he was known as the "King of the Steel Guitar". He was influenced by Joseph Kekuku, Pale K. Lua and David Ka'ili. He played his first concert at age 17. He eventually ended up in Hollywood, CA and his music was in several movies, including the 1932 release of "Bird of Paradise", "Flirtation Walk" released in 1934, "Waikiki Wedding" with Bing Crosby released in 1937, the "Hawaiian Buckaroo" released in 1938, "Navy Blues" released in 1941, and "Song of the Islands" with Betty Grable and Victor Mature" released in 1942. Near the end of his life he had diabetes and his vision deteriorated. He continued to perform and compose religious songs. At age 51 he died of kidney failure. In 1979, he was inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame.
Musician. Born in Honolulu, named Solomon Ho'opi'i Ka'ai'ai, he was known as the "King of the Steel Guitar". He was influenced by Joseph Kekuku, Pale K. Lua and David Ka'ili. He played his first concert at age 17. He eventually ended up in Hollywood, CA and his music was in several movies, including the 1932 release of "Bird of Paradise", "Flirtation Walk" released in 1934, "Waikiki Wedding" with Bing Crosby released in 1937, the "Hawaiian Buckaroo" released in 1938, "Navy Blues" released in 1941, and "Song of the Islands" with Betty Grable and Victor Mature" released in 1942. Near the end of his life he had diabetes and his vision deteriorated. He continued to perform and compose religious songs. At age 51 he died of kidney failure. In 1979, he was inducted into the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame.
Bio by: Rich H.
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