HOTEL RENEW
One of the most fun music projects I've worked on—a two-part collaboration with Hotel Renew in Waikiki.
First, I curated a collection of new and vintage vinyl for hotel guests, including two releases by local Honolulu record label Aloha Got Soul: a special edition of Kalapana II and the most recent Mix Plate, a compilation of Hawaii's emerging talent.
Other selections include Bad Bunny's latest, Biggie Smalls' Ready to Die, and vintage gems like Hawaii Calls at Twilight, recorded live on Waikiki Beach in the 1950s, plus a collector's edition of The Rolling Stones' Sticky Fingers—all sourced from Hungry Ear Records.
The second part was curating "The Day, Soundtracked," a trio of playlists designed to ease into the morning, get things lifted by the afternoon, and settle into a laid-back evening groove. Each playlist wove new local talent, unique covers, and tasteful remixes together.
If you only have time to dip your toe in, I suggest hitting play on the Dawn playlist. Highlights include a soulful cover of Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box" followed by the emotional experience that is Izik's "Pikake"—I'm nearly moved to tears by the beauty of that song.
A little later, timeless Aaliyah graces us with "At Your Best You Are Loved," followed by one of my favorite new artists, Σtella, a Greek singer-songwriter, and finally "Happy Survival" by Childish Gambino ft. Khruangbin brings us home.