Righteous Youth

Righteous Youth meets "Da Green" at Teen Expo 2011.
(Kamalani, Nawai, Kamalei, and Kamaehu)

After our temple trip in March, Kamalei (Bubba) shared that he had a strong prompting to start a band.  He shared how Sister Haroldeen Ortiz had taught a lesson in Seminary about sharing your God-given talents.  She shared a personal story about not using talents wisely and losing that gift.  It made an impression on Kamalei, even thought Sister Ortiz probably thought he was sleeping through all her early morning lesson! LOL Kamalei said, "Mom, I don't want to lose my talent.  I feel like I need to share it and not be shame!"  A few weeks later, Righteous Youth was born.

In the past seven months the band has been so blessed!  They met Nawai'eha Kala, who is now one of their brothers.  They added Kamalani to the band, bringing a sweet, distinct female voice.  They lost some members along the way, but those were lessons learned.  They have gained powerful mentors.  Lukela Keala "Uncle Kela" of Ekolu has become their greatest mentor and example and through his support, Righteous Youth had the opportunity to open for the CD release party of Manali'i at Lulu's in Lahaina.


They have been blessed with many "gigs" and have started to actually get paid for their music!  Here is a list of "gigs" they have done so far:

• Graduation Parties
• Birthday Parties
• Weddings
• Family Gatherings
• Pono and Zabrie's Grad Party
• Maui Mall Talent Night
• Fourth of July Fireworks Show in Lahaina
• Teen Expo (Opened for "Da Green")
• Mahina Santiago's First Birthday
• Justin Paredes' First Birthday
• Wimberley Wedding

And that's just the past six months!  The best thing about the band is that they are all so young.  Kamalani is 16 and she does vocals.  Kamalei (Bubba) is 15 and he plays drums and 'ukulele and is the lead vocalist.  Nawai'eha is 14 and plays 'ukulele and vocals.  Kamaehu is just 13 and he plays electric and upright bass and vocals.  It's amazing to see this young talent.  They truly live up to their name, "Righteous Youth" in their words and actions.  Their love for God and foundation in the Gospel is their greatest asset!

I know that Righteous Youth will continue to grow musically and spiritually.  I am so grateful that these fine young youth have their hearts centered on Christ and willingly share the talents He has blessed them with.  

Mahalo ke Akua!

Thanks be to God!