Michael Kiese

Mike Kiese was born and raised in Hawaiʻi. He is the lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist for Puʻuloa, playing Hawaiian Steel Guitar, Electric Guitar, Ukulele, Bass, and Saxophone (his very first instrument). A true professional, Mike has performed across many genres—including Jazz, Classical, Blues, R&B, Rock, Country, Western Swing, and, above all, the beloved Hawaiian music of his home.

Mike has traveled the world performing in Hawaiʻi, Japan, Nashville, Memphis, Kansas City, Phoenix, Tucson, and Los Angeles. He has had the honor of sharing the stage with multiple Grammy Award-winner Bobby Ingano and many other world-class musicians.

Mike is a U.S. Army Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan War), where he proudly served with the 101st Airborne Division.

Hometown:

Pearl City, Hawaiʻi (Oʻahu)

Pearl City High School, Class of 1999

Notable Performances:

• Ceremonial and entertainment performances for President Obama

• NBC’s “Today Show” with Lester Holt performing bass

• NFL Halftime Show with the Tennessee Titans

• Nashville Symphony

• Four NFL Pro Bowl Halftime Shows

Mike would like to acknowledge and thank the following people:

Suzie Kiese, my wife — thank you for choosing to share this life journey with me.

Wayne Kawahara (deceased), my very first music teacher. Your endless positivity, support, and encouragement changed my life at a time when I needed it most.

Bobby Ingano, a wonderful friend and mentor who laid a rock-solid foundation when I committed to learning Hawaiian Steel Guitar in May 2023. No secrets, no games — just pure Aloha. Uncle Bobby is a true steward of the Hawaiian Steel Guitar and Hawaiian music, and he continues to guide me today. Mahalo nui loa, Uncle Bobby!

Doug Jernigan, a modern master of steel guitar and jazz. With total transparency and a strong work ethic, Doug shows you the path and then coaches you until you get there.

Pat Bergeson, my great friend and mentor who took me under his wing. You generously shared everything you knew — even the techniques Chet Atkins taught you personally. You were exactly what I needed during one of the most challenging times in my life. Thank you.

Craig Wagner, another wonderful friend whose handful of private lessons catapulted my growth in music and guitar playing.

Wendley "Bert" Kekauoha, last but never least.  Mahalo nui loa, Uncle Bert.  You appeared in my life like an angel when I needed one most. Meeting you brought my musical journey full circle. You embody the heart and soul of what it means to be “Made in Hawaiʻi.” Your music and songwriting brought me home both personally and artistically.  Life taught me HOW to play, but playing with you reminds me daily of WHY we play — the most important reason of all.  The streets were my classroom, and people were my books.  You're one of my favorite books.