LINER NOTES:
“I am what I am because of you,” often expressed in its native tongue, okage-sama-de, is a phrase I use often when I speak of ʻukulele virtuoso and friend, Herb Ohta Jr.
Herb is a man of few words, but his superb artistry speaks for itself. With seven Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards to his credit, Herb continues to serve a significant role in the development of the modern ‘ukulele genre.
When Herb was a teenager, a recording of the Mākaha Sons of Niʻihau profoundly inspired him and ignited a passion for playing traditional Hawaiian music. This experience set him on a path similar to that of Eddie Kamae, the Godfather of modern ʻukulele playing. “Uncle” Eddie was a mentor to Herb Jr. and his father, Herb Sr., also known as “Ohta-San,” one of the greatest virtuosos of the instrument.
“ʻUkulele Story”, Herb’s 16th solo album, is a bold exploration that pushes the boundaries of the four-string, two-octave instrument. With an all-star lineup of musicians that include Jon Yamasato, Wil Tafolo, Jon Porlas, Kapono Lopes, Jeff Peterson, Shawn Pimental, Dean Taba, and Michael Grande, the album is charged with a variety of textures and musical influences.
The tone and resonance of Herb’s bell-shaped Kamaka tenor is unmatched and truly shines on tracks like Mālie and Through the Eyes of Love. On Ka Makani O Koʻolau and Puamana, the combination of the ʻukulele and the Hawaiian lap steel guitar is breathtaking and truly magical. On Keauhou, the delicate interplay between the piano and ‘ukulele is absolutely stunning. Part of Herb’s signature sound is the inclusion of the low fourth string - reminiscent of his father who is credited with pioneering the modern “low G” tuning. Herb is a master at effortlessly utilizing the added range in his arrangements of diverse genres. The lower pitched string, is apparent on his interpretation of Stevie Wonder’s classic, Master Blaster - a track he invited me to join him on. Herb’s feel and groove is spot on, and we had a “blast” recording that in the studio together. Herb’s mastery as a gifted composer truly shines in “ʻUkulele Story,” with eight original compositions, ʻOhana Pōpoki, Mālie, Ka Makani O Koʻolau, Keauhou, Blue Sky, Lele Groove, Daydream, and Cruisin’. His melodic sense is profoundly rich and communicates a deep understanding of his legacy and lineage – connecting the past and present while inspiring the next generation of ʻukulele players.
I have always regarded Ohta-San as my biggest inspiration for playing the ‘ukulele. Though I have never had the honor of collaborating with him, I am grateful for the many opportunities that I’ve had to perform with and learn from his son. Herb is truly a master, and his musicianship continues to inspire ‘ukulele players all over the world - and I am simply one of them. Okage-sama-de - I am what I am because of you.
Aloha,
Jake Shimabukuro
MESSAGE:
2025 marks 35 years for me as a professional musician. With ʻUkulele Story, I’ve now released 16 solo recordings, 13 duet recordings, contributions on more than 40 recordings, a songbook in Korea, and two instructional books. It's amazing to think that I'm still in this business. What water is for your body, music is for your spirit and soul. This is why I continue to share music with the 'ukulele.
This recording is dedicated to Kamaka Hawaiʻi, and in memory of DJ Pratt.
Aloha
Herb, Jr.
