What’s a Hawaiian party without music? This week we take a look at the tropical island sounds which you can use to add an extra touch of traditional ambience to your Hawaiian themed party.

Hawaiian music is diverse, and has had a larger influence on popular culture around the world than one might expect. Steel guitar, in which the instrument is played on the lap using a metal slide, was invented in Hawaii and is now common in many genres of music such as folk, country and blues. The ukulele is also very popular in Hawaiian culture. If you’re musically minded you might consider picking up one of these to impress guests at your Hawaiian fancy dress party.

Alternatively you could check out some of the following genres and artists for ideas for your party soundtrack.

Folk – Hawaiian folk music usually involves a particular style of chanting, and is designed to accompany traditional hula dancing. Grab yourself a compilation CD and convince your guests to don grass skirts for a hula dance off.

Jawaiian – A hybrid blend of traditional Hawaiian music and Jamaican reggae which became popular on the islands in the nineties. Reggae music and the Rastafarian movement are influential in modern Hawaiian culture.

Rock & Roll – Elvis loved Hawaii, and its influence is clear in many of his songs, such as Hawaiian Wedding Song and blue beyond the reef. Elvis also made several movies set in Hawaii- Girls Girls Girls, Blue Hawaii and Paradise Hawaiian Style- and the soundtrack CD’s to these could be a great addition to your Hawaiian fancy dress party.