Singer-songwriter Blayne Asing, whose debut album “Young, Old Soul” quickly sold out of its first printing and is nominated for two 2016 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards (Hawaii’s GRAMMY® Award), is releasing a new single on April 22, 2016 inspired by his love of the island of Molokai. Written for his Molokai family, “Molokai On My Mind” expresses his experience living the Molokai life, with references to family, fishing, hunting, beautiful landscapes, and unforgettable people.
Asing has spent the last few years traveling back and forth between Oahu and Molokai, finding it increasingly difficult to leave the beautiful, unspoiled island with each trip. What were supposed to be two day trips stretched to five. One week trips stretched to two. Says Asing, “There is a mana about the island that most people disregard or cannot connect to. As the saying goes, “if you know, you know...” His lyrics reflect his longing to stay on an island heavily steeped in Hawaiian culture and natural beauty (“Should I stay or should I go to find my heart”), and the traditional Hawaiian way of life (“The ocean brings the taste of supper time...”)
Born and raised on the island of Oʻahu, Asing had no formal music training. He credits his ability to play with having a natural ear for learning. He taught himself how to play guitar by watching YouTube videos. He began playing ʻukulele at age eight; singing in the Kamehameha Children’s Chorus at age nine; playing guitar at age 14; and playing percussion in the Kamehameha Schools marching, concert, and pep bands from ages 12 to 18. Although he grew up loving the music of popular Hawai’i artists such as Ernie Cruz, Jr., Brother Noland, Gabby Pahinui, Olomana, and more, his own music is heavily influenced by country and folk music artists such as James Taylor and Jackson Browne.
“Molokai On My Mind” was produced by Bailey Matsuda (with Executive Producer Darren Tsuchiya), and recorded, engineered and mastered by Milan Bertosa at Island Sound Studios. In addition to his vocals, Asing played acoustic guitar and dobro. Guest artists include Bailey Matsuda (piano), Noel Okimoto (drums), and Mark Tanouye (bass).
“Molokai On My Mind” is available in digital format only, currently at Me Ke Aloha and soon on iTunes, CD Baby, and other digital outlets. Here is a preview:
Asing has spent the last few years traveling back and forth between Oahu and Molokai, finding it increasingly difficult to leave the beautiful, unspoiled island with each trip. What were supposed to be two day trips stretched to five. One week trips stretched to two. Says Asing, “There is a mana about the island that most people disregard or cannot connect to. As the saying goes, “if you know, you know...” His lyrics reflect his longing to stay on an island heavily steeped in Hawaiian culture and natural beauty (“Should I stay or should I go to find my heart”), and the traditional Hawaiian way of life (“The ocean brings the taste of supper time...”)
Born and raised on the island of Oʻahu, Asing had no formal music training. He credits his ability to play with having a natural ear for learning. He taught himself how to play guitar by watching YouTube videos. He began playing ʻukulele at age eight; singing in the Kamehameha Children’s Chorus at age nine; playing guitar at age 14; and playing percussion in the Kamehameha Schools marching, concert, and pep bands from ages 12 to 18. Although he grew up loving the music of popular Hawai’i artists such as Ernie Cruz, Jr., Brother Noland, Gabby Pahinui, Olomana, and more, his own music is heavily influenced by country and folk music artists such as James Taylor and Jackson Browne.
“Molokai On My Mind” was produced by Bailey Matsuda (with Executive Producer Darren Tsuchiya), and recorded, engineered and mastered by Milan Bertosa at Island Sound Studios. In addition to his vocals, Asing played acoustic guitar and dobro. Guest artists include Bailey Matsuda (piano), Noel Okimoto (drums), and Mark Tanouye (bass).
“Molokai On My Mind” is available in digital format only, currently at Me Ke Aloha and soon on iTunes, CD Baby, and other digital outlets. Here is a preview:
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