The WAITIKI 7 - Enchantment Under the Kiawe: Live at House Without A Key

Releasing August 29, 2025.

Emerging amidst Hawaii's vibrant postwar music scene, Exotica was the quintessential, easy listening soundtrack behind many a bachelor pad, tiki bar, or globe trotters’ fantasy. The genre’s lush instrumentation and faraway soundscapes continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

The famous Halekulani hotel played a pivotal, early role in the Exotica legacy: In 1954, Arthur Lyman, then working as a desk clerk at Halekulani, crossed paths with pianist Martin Denny. Denny offered Lyman a place in his band, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Martin Denny's music catapulted to the mainstream, with both him and Arthur Lyman gracing national television shows like American Bandstand, Andy Williams, and Steve Allen. Denny's 1959 hit single, "Quiet Village," soared to #4 on Billboard's charts, while his "Exotica" album eventually claimed the #1 spot. Local vibraphonist Arthur Lyman's hit, "Yellow Bird," peaked at #4 on the Billboard Charts in 1961.

“Exotica music brought Hawaii’s musicians to the world stage,” enthused Randy Wong, bassist, and co-founder of WAITIKI 7. “The music is a beautiful, cultural tapestry—an artistic interpretation of the melting pot that makes living in Hawaii so special. We’re thrilled to return this music to its roots and are delighted to perform it at Halekulani.”

Halekulani's name, brand, and logos used by permission of Halekulani Corp.