Born on Moku o Keawe and raised in the community of ʻŌlaʻa, Sean’s musical journey began at an early age. As a fourth-grade student learning the ʻukulele in music class, he discovered something that set him apart. He could hear notes and tones that stayed with him long after the lessons ended. Those sounds lingered in his mind, quietly preparing him for a path he had yet to understand.
By the sixth grade, music opened an entirely new world. A visit to Kalapana would change everything. There, Sean heard Ikaika Marzo playing kī hō‘alu (Hawaiian slack key guitar). In that moment, all of those notes and melodies he had carried with him suddenly made sense. It was his first introduction to the beautiful art of kī hō‘alu, and from that day forward, he was captivated.
As he searched for that unmistakable sound, Sean discovered the music of Ledward Kaapana and later learned they were related. He immersed himself in the recordings of Sonny Lim and many of Hawaiʻi’s treasured slack key masters. What began with the ʻukulele soon became a lifelong passion for kī hō‘alu, an art form that, at one time, many feared was a fading art, but now lives on through a new generation of dedicated musicians like Sean.
Among those who helped shape Sean’s musical journey was his mentor, Ledward Kaapana. More than teaching technique, Ledward offered wisdom, encouragement, and the freedom to create from the heart. Along with many of the respected musicians who guided him, the message became clear: “Boy… I think it’s time.”
This recording is the result of years spent listening, learning, practicing, and honoring those who came before him. The release of Kaimu marks a milestone in his journey.
There truly is a time and season for everything. For Sean Austin Kainalu Parks, that time is now.
First and foremost, I want to mahalo ke Akua for all the blessings He has placed in my life. Of course, my mom and dad, for their endless love and support, and for always encouraging me to chase my dreams and passions. And mom (grandma) for instilling in me a love for Hawaiian music. Pursuing Hawaiian music and slack key has always been a dream of mine, and finally bringing that dream into reality is deeply rewarding and humbling.
I owe my deepest gratitude to all the musical mentors and heroes who have guided me along the way. Some have passed on, and others we are still fortunate enough to have with us. Without you, I would not be the musician and performer I am today.
To those who had a hand in bringing this album to life: Brandon, for your ideas and expertise in the studio, and for helping me capture the sound I was chasing. Keano and Kūhaʻo, for capturing all the magical moments. Uncle Kevin, for the liner notes, and for your never-ending wisdom and guidance. And to my Mahina Hoku, my inspiration and the love behind this album.
Lastly, a special mahalo to everyone who has supported my musical journey from the beginning. This album is for you.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Sean Parks
CO-PRODUCERS
Brandon Nakano
Sonny Lim
GUEST MUSICIAN
Emma Coloma-Nakano
MIXING
Brandon Nakano
Sean Parks
MASTERING
Brandon Nakano
RECORDED AT
The AlohaLand Studio • Hilo, HI
PHOTOGRAPHY
Keanokualani Perreira
Kūhaʻo Regidor
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Kainalu Kreative
LINER NOTES
Kevin Brown
ALOHA WEAR
Sig Zane Designs
MORE MUSIC
"HOLEI" - Sean combines his leo (voice) and mastery of kī hōʻalu (slack-key) to revive the raw, authentic sound of old Hawaiʻi. A nostalgic take on this beloved mele classic, performed in the old style and recorded with the intimacy and memory of simpler times.
Available NOW on ALL DIGITAL PLATFORMS
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LABEL
SPK productions