The Hawaiian music scene laments the untimely passing of Bruddah Waltah, a genuine pioneer and kind person. As the first Hawaiian reggae musician and a committed leader at Native Village Rescue, he has made a lasting impression. The world said goodbye to the well-known singer, whose legacy was honored for his musical accomplishments, on August 17, 2023.
Many people were stunned to learn of Bruddah Waltah’s tragic death because the celebrated singer had just disclosed his health issues at a Hilo Palace Theater performance. It was discovered that he had fought cancer valiantly for more than a year. With an increasingly dire prognosis of advanced liver cancer, Waltah faced an arduous battle that he bravely battled.
Bruddah Waltah revealed the hard reality he faced—not having health insurance and having to deal with spiraling medical bills—in a moving pre-show interview. The expectation of a full recovery was in stark contrast to the financial strain that he was carrying as his chemotherapy treatment got underway.
Local musicians and other artists held a memorial event for Bruddah Waltah in 2022. Together, Mark Yamanaka, Randy Lorenzo, and Ben Kailicome gave a moving three-hour concert as a tribute to the musical icon.
Hula Halau O Kou Lima Nani E’s graceful performances adorned the stage, paying appropriate tribute to the artist’s cultural background. As the final curtain fell on the tribute event, Bruddah Waltah’s enduring legacy continued to be a trailblazer in Hawaiian reggae and a beacon of perseverance and unity.
