Aloha Ka Manini by Lot Kauwe – Ukelele Chords. This song uses the chords: F, F7, Bb, G7, C7. You can change the key for free, as needed.
Aloha Ka Manini by Lot Kauwe – Ukelele Chords
FAloha ka maF7nini Bbme ka Fpōpolo
He iʻa G7noho ia C7i ka laupapa
FKala, ka neF7nue ʻBbo ka nahaFwele
Moani G7ke ʻala C7ke honi Faku
FĀhole F7iʻa Bbpiko lihaFliha
Poi ʻuG7ala C7kāohi Fpuʻu
FHaʻinF7a ʻia mai aBbna ka puFana
Aloha G7ka manini C7me ka pōFpolo
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” Aloha Ka Manini” History:
“Aloha Ka Manini” is a beloved traditional Hawaiian mele (song) composed by Lot Kauwe, probably in the early 20th century. The song celebrates the abundance of Hawaiian reef life and the joy of food shared with aloha. Rather than being a romantic ballad, it is essentially a song of affection and gratitude for the ocean’s gifts and for everyday Hawaiian life.
The title translates roughly as “Love to the Manini Fish.” The manini is a small reef fish common in Hawaiʻi, and the song also mentions other fish and sea plants such as pōpolo, kala, nenue, and nahawele limu (seaweed). The lyrics lovingly describe the smell, taste, and pleasure of a traditional Hawaiian meal.
One of the most famous verses is:
“Aloha ka manini me ka pōpolo”
which is often translated as:
“Hail to the manini and pōpolo.”
The song continues by describing reef fish, seaweed, and sweet potato poi sliding “down the throat” — a very earthy, sensory kind of Hawaiian poetry celebrating food and place.
Musically, “Aloha Ka Manini” has become a Hawaiian standards favorite. It has been recorded by many artists over the decades, including:
- Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (“IZ”), whose version on the album E Ala E helped introduce the song to a worldwide audience
- Makaha Sons of Niʻihau
- Maunalua
- Darlene Ahuna
- Kawika Alfiche
IZ’s version in particular has a loose, joyful feel — almost like friends singing together at a backyard pāʻina (gathering). That relaxed warmth is a big reason the song remains so loved.
There’s also an important cultural layer underneath the simplicity. Traditional Hawaiian songs often honor the relationship between people and ʻāina (land) and kai (sea). “Aloha Ka Manini” expresses appreciation for nature not as scenery, but as family and sustenance. (Pilina Inoa)
Here’s a performance video if you’d like to hear the song:
