Hawaiian Music & Island Vibes: The Little Grass Shack

This week on The Little Grass Shack, Island Emory takes listeners on a powerful journey into the heart of Hawaiian legend with the story of Kū, the mighty God of War. Known as one of the four great deities of ancient Hawaii, Kū’s influence went far beyond the battlefield — shaping the islands’ traditions of farming, fishing, leadership, and community resilience.

From the heiau of Puʻukoholā, where King Kamehameha the Great sought Kū’s blessing for unifying the islands, to tales of Kū transforming into a breadfruit tree to feed his family, this episode explores how strength, sacrifice, and balance define the Hawaiian spirit.

Alongside classic and contemporary island music, Island Emory celebrates the mana — the living energy — of a god whose presence still inspires warriors, artists, and cultural leaders today.

✨ A weekly escape to aloha, culture, and storytelling — only on 91.5 KUNV Jazz & More, The Little Grass Shack

This week on The Little Grass Shack, Island Emory takes listeners on a musical and cultural ride through Hawaii’s enduring love affair with Toyota. From the rugged Tacomas hauling surfboards to the fuel-saving Corollas navigating city streets, discover how Toyota became more than a car brand—it became part of island life.

Emory reflects on Toyota’s deep roots in the islands—from its 1960s arrival to its community sponsorships and family traditions—and explores why Hawaiians trust Toyota for every adventure, from beach days to mountain roads. Between segments, enjoy a hand-picked mix of island favorites celebrating aloha, resilience, and that unmistakable island groove.

Whether you’re cruising the H-1 or daydreaming from the mainland, this episode reminds us that in Hawaii, it’s not just the destination—it’s the ride.

In this heartfelt edition of The Little Grass Shack, Island Emory welcomes longtime supporter and community leader Jeff Winchester, a Las Vegas-based civil rights attorney and cultural ambassador with deep ties to Japan. Together, they celebrate the spirit of aloha and explore Jeff’s journey from teaching English in Tokyo to co-founding Nevada’s annual Aki Matsuri Festival, a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture held on Water Street in Henderson.

Jeff shares stories of his 11 years in Japan, how he helped grow the festival from a small local gathering into an event drawing over 15,000 attendees, and the importance of cross-cultural exchange between Las Vegas and Japan. Listeners will also hear about festival highlights — from taiko drumming, authentic food booths, and sake tastings, to a special roundtrip Japan Airlines raffle giveaway.

Whether you’re an anime fan, a foodie, or simply seeking community and connection, this episode invites you to embrace aloha, celebrate cultural unity, and say “Ganbatte kudasai” — keep going, don’t give up.

This week on Little Grass Shack, Island Emery takes you on a journey through the heart of Oʻahu, exploring the breathtaking natural wonder of Hanauma Bay and the vibrant energy of Honolulu. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish to strolling the bustling streets of Hawaiʻi’s capital city, this episode celebrates the perfect balance between nature and culture. Along the way, enjoy the best of Island music, stories of Hawaiian history, and the aloha spirit that connects generations. Whether it’s reef preservation, island traditions, or the magic of Waikīkī nightlife, discover why Oʻahu remains a destination like no other

 In this episode of Little Grass Shack, Island Emory takes listeners on a journey through Apple TV’s groundbreaking series Chief of War, created by Hawaii’s own Jason Momoa. More than a Hollywood epic, the show honors Hawaiian history, King Kamehameha’s unification of the islands, and the enduring mana of Polynesian culture. Emory reflects on themes of language, representation, and ancestral pride, while weaving in island music that amplifies the spirit of aloha. From cultural authenticity to the power of storytelling, this episode celebrates indigenous voices and the legacy of Hawai‘i for future generations 

Join Island Emery on this week’s Little Grass Shack as we journey to the heart of Kailua Kona, a coastal gem on Hawaiʻi Island. Known for its world-famous Kona coffee, breathtaking beaches, Ironman championships, and deep royal history, Kailua Kona is where ancient traditions blend with modern island living. Explore historic landmarks like Huliheʻe Palace, discover ancient fishponds at Kaloko-Honokōhau, soak in the magic of disappearing sands at Laʻaloa Beach, and savor the flavors of Kona’s rich coffee culture. With the best of island music and the spirit of aloha guiding every stop, this episode is your ticket to paradise from the Ninth Island.

In this fiery edition of Little Grass Shack, Island Emery takes listeners to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, home of Pele, the goddess of fire. Against the backdrop of Kīlauea’s latest eruption—lava fountains soaring 100 feet high—Emery blends history, culture, and natural wonder, sharing how volcanic forces shape the land, enrich Kona coffee, and inspire Hawaiian traditions. Between island hits and heartfelt reflections, the episode features “WTF” eruption facts, a “Destination Paradise” look at Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, and a positive note reminding us to embrace change like the islands themselves—turning life’s eruptions into opportunities for growth.

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In this week’s Little Grass Shack, Island Emery brings the spirit of aloha to life with a rich blend of island music, cultural storytelling, and local flavor. Journey to Oʻahu’s iconic Waimea Bay to explore its sacred history, big-wave legends, and rare Eddie Aikau Invitational. Savor a taste of home with a spotlight on Las Vegas favorite Island Flavor restaurant, and discover how the aloha spirit thrives in downtown’s murals, music, and community events. With every song, story, and “What’s the Grinds” feature, this episode is a warm invitation to paradise—no plane ticket required. 

Broadcasting from the Ninth Island, host Island Emery brings the heart and soul of Hawai‘i straight to your speakers in this week’s Little Grass Shack. Journey to the Valley Isle as we celebrate Maui’s lush landscapes, deep cultural roots, and enduring spirit. Alongside a vibrant mix of island music—from breezy beachside grooves to soulful ballads—Emery shares stories of resilience, from the historic Battle of Kepaniwai to Maui’s inspiring recovery after the devastating Lahaina fires. It’s an hour of aloha, history, and island vibes that will leave you feeling connected to Hawai‘i, no matter where you are.

On this week’s Little Grass Shack, we celebrate the vibrant sounds and stories of the islands—from Maui to Oahu to right here in the heart of Las Vegas. Big T keeps the aloha spirit alive with Hawaiian hits, local updates, and a look back at Lahaina one year after the devastating wildfires. Plus, hear about an exciting concert at Sam’s Town, shoutouts from listeners across the 9th Island, and a reminder to always keep community at the center.

Whether you’re fresh off the mainland or kanikapila in the desert, this is your island-style soundtrack for Sunday mornings.