In 1977, the Hawaiian music group Kalapana III was not as widely circulated as its predecessors, and the band never regained its former glory in Hawaii. Despite their efforts to replace Feary, the absence of their songs was felt. Leddy Kaʻapana remembers his uncle Fred Punahoa playing the song “Radio Hula” in Kalapana, and the family also shared an energetic and relaxed interpretation of “Kuʻu Ipo Onaona”, paying homage to the late Dennis Kamakahi. Kalapana continues to be a source of inspiration and positivity for contemporary Hawaiian music and musicians.
The influence of television on Kalapana music is undeniable. In the 1970s, television was a powerful tool for disseminating Hawaiian music and culture. It provided a platform for Kalapana to reach a broader audience and gain recognition. Television also helped to popularize Hawaiian music by introducing it to people who had never heard it before.
This increased exposure led to more people attending live performances and buying albums. However, television also had a detrimental effect on Kalapana music. The commercialization of Hawaiian music meant that it was no longer seen as an art form but rather as a product to be sold. This led to a decrease in quality as producers focused more on making money than creating quality music.
Furthermore, television often portrayed Hawaiian music in a stereotypical way, which further contributed to its commercialization. Despite the negative impacts of television on Kalapana music, it is clear that it has had a significant impact on the genre. It has helped to spread Hawaiian music and culture to a wider audience, while also providing a platform for Kalapana musicians to gain recognition. Television has also helped to popularize Hawaiian music, leading to more people attending live performances and buying albums.
Overall, television has had both positive and negative impacts on Kalapana music. While it has helped to spread Hawaiian music and culture, it has also led to its commercialization and stereotyping. Nevertheless, it is clear that television has had an undeniable impact on Kalapana music.