Hawaii-based ukulele virtuoso, Andrew Molina, proves that the ukulele has no limits. Andrew’s electrifying performances have captivated audiences around the world including China, Europe, Tahiti, and, of course, the U.S. His 3 albums have all been nominated for “Ukulele Album of the Year” at the prestigious “Na Hoku Hanohano” music awards, (Hawaii’s version of the Grammys) and he has also been featured on the cover of England’s Uke Magazine. From sweet Hawaiian sounds to Aerosmith’s “Dream On” and Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine” to even the “Game of Thrones” theme, Andrew proves that anything is possible on the ukulele!
Andrew provides his knowledge, experiences, emotion, and defined ukulele vision to enable you to develop your own unique sound. His ability to encourage, motivate, and explain will keep your skills growing until you hit your dream level of ukulele craft.
Now that we know some cool details about Andrew Molina, let’s welcome him to this writing space!
Andrew Molina, tell me about your Ukulele story?
Been playing the ukulele for 17 years. When I first saw Jake Shimabukuro live here on Maui I knew what I wanted to do when I grew up, a performing / touring Ukulele player. To keep inspired I would go to his concerts all over Hawaii and learn all his songs off his albums. It was challenging back then because YouTube didn’t exist yet. Now I aim to showcase the variety of music played on the ukulele.
View this post on Instagram
Who are your role models in the Ukulele world?
My main influence was Jake Shimabukuro. I also really enjoyed the talents of Aldrine Guerrero, Kalei Gamiao, Herb Ohta Jr. and Daniel Ho. Was fascinating to see different styles to approach the uke.
Where do you get your creative inspiration from?
I tend to write songs when outside. The fresh air and different environment can do wonders. I also gain inspiration from guitar players these days.
What 3 tips can you give to people that are starting to learn and improve on the ukulele?
- Keep an open mind while learning.
- Get out of your comfort zone.
- Play with feeling and soul.
What lessons have you learned from being a performer/influencer/musician?
I learned that this is hard work. Hundreds of hours put in as well as experience on the job as a performer have brought me to who I am today. People see the results and not the process and It’s always harder than originally expected.
ABOUT THE UKE-CON FESTIVAL 2022:
What are you most looking forward to at UKE-CON?
Definitely looking forward to catching up and jamming with some of my ukulele friends including Daniel Ho, Aldrine Guerrero, and Kris Fuchigami. Also looking forward to connecting with attendees and just overall enjoying a great day of music and uke.
View this post on Instagram
Tickets are almost sold out! Do you have any words to the attendees (both in person and virtual)?
It’s gonna be a killer lineup!
Read more: Meet Aldrine Guerrero, one of the artists invited to the UKECON 2022!
UKE-CON is a great opportunity for people to connect with their ukulele teachers/artists/mentors. What do you like the most about being part of this one-of-a-kind ukulele community?
The interaction is always the best, and also meeting fellow artists is awesome. We all come from different styles and egos are rare in the uke community.
ABOUT YOU:
What are you currently working on (professionally and personally) that you are excited about?
New merch is coming this fall! New music is coming next year.
View this post on Instagram
What is your favorite quote or words of wisdom can you share with us?
“Always be a student. The moment you think you know everything is when you can’t learn anymore”.
Share one funny story about yourself that most people don’t know.
I eat really spicy chili peppers for fun sometimes and try to play uke while dealing with the heat.
View this post on Instagram
How can people learn more about you and reach out to you? Do you have a website/store/channel where people can find your content?
Check out, andrewmolinaukulele.com for music, updates, and merch and if you are looking to upgrade your ukulele skills the link to my academy is on there as well! You can also find me on FB, IG, and Youtube.
Awesome!!! We’re really excited to see you at the UKE-CON Festival 2022 in San Diego, California, on August 27th.
Preparing the engines in 3……… 2……… 1……!
