Follow us on Facebook:
The Lost Hawaiians are Portland’s finest purveyors of Hawaiian music. Perfect for weddings, parties, and tropical-themed events. Featuring Josh Gilbert on ukulele and vocals and the sensational Twayn Williams on steel guitar. We specialize in Hawaiian music of the swing era, including traditional mele (songs) and hapa-haole jazz tunes. We sing in English and Hawaiian, and we always make sure to bring the Aloha!
We are long-time Portland jazz musicians who love the music and culture of Hawaii. Our influences include great players of the jazz era, like Sol Hoopii, Tau Moe, and Benny Nawahi. We also play later classics from artists like Hui Ohana, and the great Israel Kamakawiwoole. We approach the music with a spirit of respect and love. Our goal is to bring the spirit of the islands to the rainy Northwest!
Check out some of our music below. Mahalo!
Grass Shack
Ua Like Noa Like
Ka Mele O Kuu Puuwai
Kona Moon
Josh Gilbert has been playing music professionally for over two decades. Some years ago he visited Hawaii for the first time, bought a ukulele on Kauai, and became fascinated by Hawaiian music. He has since returned to the islands many times, and expanded his knowledge of Hawaiian music and culture. He teaches ukulele, flute, saxophone, and clarinet in the Portland area, and plays in numerous local bands, including The Little Big Band.
Twayn Williams is a prodigious steel guitarist, with a great sense of swing, and many years of professional experience. A fan of great steel players like Sol Hoopii and Jerry Byrd, he is a true purveyor of the classic style. He is also the leader of The Jenny Finn Orchestra and The Swingtown Vipers.
