My Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii

Ted Fio Rito

About My Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii

"My Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua, Hawaiʻi", written by Tommy Harrison, Bill Cogswell, and Johnny Noble in Hawaii in 1933, is a song in the Hawaiian musical style known as hapa haole. One of the earliest recordings by Ted Fio Rito and his orchestra reached number one on the charts in 1934. Honolulu magazine listed it as number 41 in a 2007 article, "50 Greatest Songs of Hawaii". It has been heard in many movies and television shows and has been covered dozens of times. The title is sometimes shortened to "My Little Grass Shack" or "Little Grass Shack".  


Year:
2003
3:12
88 
#3

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com

I want to go back to my little grass shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii
I want to be with all the kanes and wahines that I knew long ago
I can hear old guitars a playing, on the beach at Hoonaunau
I can hear the Hawaiians saying "Komomai no kaua ika hale welakahao"
It won't be long 'til my ship will be sailing back to Kona
A grand old place that's always fair to see
I'm just a little Hawaiian and a homeside Island boy
I want to go back to my fish and poi
I want to go back to my little grass shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii
Where the Humuhumu, Nukunuku a puaa goes swimming by
Where the Humuhumu, Nukunuku a puaa goes swimming by
 
I want to go back to my little grass shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii
I want to be with all the kanes and wahines that I knew long ago
I can hear old guitars a playing, on the beach at Hoonaunau
I can hear the Hawaiians saying "Komomai no kaua ika hale welakahao"
It won't be long 'til my ship will be sailing back to Kona
A grand old place that's always fair to see
I'm just a little Hawaiian and a homeside Island boy
I want to go back to my fish and poi
I want to go back to my little grass shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii
Where the Humuhumu, Nukunuku a puaa goes swimming by

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com


Ted Fio Rito

Theodore Salvatore Fiorito (December 20, 1900 – July 22, 1971), known professionally as Ted Fio Rito, was an American composer, orchestra leader, and keyboardist, on both the piano and the Hammond organ, who was popular on national radio broadcasts in the 1920s and 1930s. His name is sometimes given as Ted Fiorito or Ted FioRito. more »

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Written by: BILL COGSWELL, JOHNNY NOBLE, TOMMY HARRISON, WILLIAM COGSWELL

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Historical Significance
"My Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii" was first recorded by Ted Fio Rito in 1933, amidst the period of swing music's prevalence in the US.
Song Originality
The song, despite its Hawaiian theme, was originally written by three non-Hawaiians - Bill Cogswell, Tommy Harrison, and Johnny Noble.
Recognition & Awards
In 2004, it was enshrined in the Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame, signifying its cultural and musical importance in Hawaii's history.
Popularity
Since its recording, the song became a popular standard, and was covered by numerous artists, including Billie Holiday, Bing Crosby, and Louis Armstrong.
Lyrics
The song’s lyrics describe a simple and idyllic life in a small Hawaiian town, which explains its lasting appeal and romantic image of Hawaii it painted.
In Culture
It has been used in films and TV shows as a symbol of Hawaii's unique tranquility and charm. For instance, it was featured in the 1943 film "Song of the Islands" starring Betty Grable.
Musical Style
The song consists of a catchy melody and a danceable rhythm, tying it in with the Swing Era, even though it incorporates Hawaiian themes.
Artist's Impact
Ted Fio Rito, an accomplished bandleader, helped popularize the song nationwide. His version is noted for its vibrant, upbeat feel.
In Dance
This song has become a favorite in the hula community and is often performed at hula festivals and competitions around the world.
Legacy
Despite being over 80 years old, "My Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii" remains an iconic piece of music, exemplifying the romantic vision of life in Hawaii.

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