Honoring Queen Liliuokalani’s, ‘Aloha Oe,’ One of Hawaii's Most Famous Songs

Posted by Mapuana Andrade on Monday, March 21st, 2022 at 11:48am

Lydia Lili‘u Loloku Walania Wewehi Kamaka‘eha was born on September 2, 1838, and went on to become the queen of the Kingdom of Hawai'i, as well as a scholar, philanthropist, prolific and brilliant composer. 

Lili'u was named successor to the throne on April 11, 1877, and was sworn in on January 29, 1891, following the death of her brother, King Kalākaua.

She is revered and remembered across the Hawaiian Islands for her knowledge, grace, and devotion towards Hawaii's people. “E ʻonipaʻa i ka ʻimi naʻauao," was Liliuokalani's credo (Be steadfast in the seeking of knowledge). It is commonly abbreviated to “Onipaʻa,” which means "to stand firm”. 

At the age of 40, she wrote and recorded what would come to be arguably her most famous song, ‘Aloha Oe,’ (Farewell To Thee)," while riding her horse through the Koolau Mountains at Maunawili Ranch on her way back to her house in Honolulu.

Her remarkable songwriting and mele (songs) that she created throughout her life continue to carry on her legacy. Over the years, there have been many different variations of ‘Aloha Oe,’ done by Hawaiian and other famous artists, like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, hoping to honor our late queen and the people of our islands, and we've included some of our favorites below!

Amy Hanaiali’i

Tia Carrere - Lilo & Stitch Soundtrack

The Rose Ensemble & Jordan Sramek

Johnny Cash

The Brothers Cazimero

Gabby Pahinui

Billy Vaughn

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