Kavet the Catalyst is a Hawaiian MC, DJ, Producer and Curator of Hip-Hop in Hawaiʻi. He founded the Lightsleepers, in 1997 while hosting a radio show on KTUH 90.3fm and turned that opportunity into a clothing brand with events, while still creating Hip-Hop music. 

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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Early in his art career, SPEL ONER realized that his creative journey extended far beyond graffiti. With an uncanny skill for computers, design, and illustration, he recognized an opportunity to channel his creativity into new mediums. 

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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Creed Chameleon, originally from Waipahu, has been rocking the mic for over two decades. His relentless work ethic and commitment to staying true to his sound have earned him opportunities to share the stage with hip-hop legends. Recently, he relocated to Las Vegas to expand his musical reach. There, he formed the crew DOTWAV, securing record deals and commercial opportunities while continuing to elevate his presence in the industry.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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I.A. the Kama‘āina Classic Hawai‘i-born rapper, actor and entrepreneur Jordan “I.A.” Salud began rapping in high school while living in San Diego. He eventually moved back to the islands, where he refined his signature island hip-hop sound and created local anthems like “Yeah You” and “Zubland” for the community.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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This month we talk with a guest who is known for producing several chart-topping remixes through the 1980s and ’90s. John Iervolino’s determination laid the ground work for his success and for a partnership between his record label Quiet Storm Records and Universal Music Group in 1999. Hear how this milestone propelled the label to national recognition and eight bestselling albums, including Roots Music, Island Roots and Sudden Rush.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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Our guest this month has been a curator of Hawai‘i’s graffiti culture since the 1980s. Hear how a passion for photography led him to document this vibrant island subculture, and how he launched Hawaiian Knights, an independent magazine showcasing graffiti from Hawai‘i and around the world.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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Our first episode of season 3, kicks things off with a progressive figure in the local scene. As a DJ, rapper, and producer, Osna made waves in the early and mid-2000s with his sharp battle raps and gritty, genre defining beats. Tune in as he shares his journey, his process and his impact on Hawai‘i hip-hop.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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Aaron “Woes” Martin This Kāne‘ohe native, best known for his larger-than-life “Angry Pandas” paintings, has taken his art across the globe, spreading his deep love for hip-hop culture wherever he goes. Emerging as a key figure in the late 1990s, his influence helped cultivate and elevate Hawai‘i’s hip-hop scene to the next level. Through bold visuals, cultural authenticity and a commitment to the foundations of hip-hop, his work played an important role in shaping a movement that continues to inspire new generations of artists today.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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Representing Maui, Hawai‘i, DJ Skinny Guy was the first Hawai‘i DJ to battle in the ITF and DMC DJ competitions in 1996.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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We learn about Hawai‘i’s first female street artist growing up in the 1980s and the story of her friend “TRIAD3,” who passed away in high school.

Alanui Mele: Hawaiʻi Hip-Hop History

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