Queen “Lydia” Liliʻuokalani was the last reigning monarch of Hawaii and a talented singer and composer. She wrote over 150 songs during her lifetime, blending Hawaiian traditions with Western styles.
Her most famous song, Aloha ‘Oe, is still loved around the world today. Liliuokalani had a deep love for music and used it to share Hawaiian culture and emotions.
Her music helped keep the Hawaiian language and spirit alive. She is remembered as one of Hawaii’s most important musical voices. Her songs continue to inspire and touch hearts today.
About the Song
Aloha ‘Oe is a beautiful Hawaiian farewell song by Queen Liliʻuokalani. It means Farewell to Thee in English.
The song expresses love, parting, and longing, often sung when someone is about to leave. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it famous worldwide.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | 1877 |
| Writers | Liliuokalani |
| Popular Covers | Elvis Presley, Don Ho, Tia Carrere |
Complete Lyrics of Aloha ‘Oe
Haʻaheo ka ua i nā pali
Ke nihi aʻela i ka nahele
E hahai (uhai) ana paha i ka liko
Pua ʻāhihi lehua o uka
Hui:
Aloha ʻoe, aloha ʻoe
E ke onaona noho i ka lipo
One fond embrace,
A hoʻi aʻe au
Until we meet again
ʻO ka haliʻa aloha i hiki mai
Ke hone aʻe nei i kuʻu manawa
ʻO ʻoe nō kaʻu ipo aloha
A loko e hana nei
Maopopo kuʻu ʻike i ka nani
Nā pua rose o Maunawili
I laila hiaʻai nā manu
Mikiʻala i ka nani o ka lipo
English Translation of Aloha ‘Oe
Proudly swept the rain by the cliffs
As it glided through the trees
Still following ever the bud
The ʻahihi lehua of the vale
Chorus:
Farewell to you, farewell to you
The charming one who dwells in the shaded bowers
One fond embrace,
‘Ere I depart
Until we meet again
Sweet memories come back to me
Bringing fresh remembrances of the past
Dearest one, yes, you are mine own
From you, true love shall never depart
I have seen and watched your loveliness
The sweet rose of Maunawili
And ’tis there the birds of love dwell
And sip the honey from your lips
Similar Songs Like Aloha ‘Oe
These songs, like Aloha ‘Oe, connect people to memories, places, and feelings. They hold onto love, even when it’s time to say goodbye:
- Beyond the Reef: A calm Hawaiian ballad about lost love, with waves and dreams carrying the emotions.
- Blue Hawaii: This song is a dreamy love song set in Hawaii, filled with soft rhythms and romantic feelings.
- Ke Kali Nei Au (The Hawaiian Wedding Song): The track is a tender wedding song often played during Hawaiian ceremonies, showcasing true love.
- Island Style: This tune celebrates everyday Hawaiian life and values, with a relaxed and loving vibe.
Similar Songwriters Like Queen “Lydia” Liliʻuokalani
Here are some artists similar to Liliuokalani, known for their contributions to Hawaiian music and traditional island sounds.:
- Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Genre: Hawaiian, Folk
Top Album: Facing Future - Genoa Keawe
Genre: Traditional Hawaiian, Hula
Top Album: Hula Volume 1 - Amy Hānaialiʻi Gilliom
Genre: Hawaiian, Contemporary Hawaiian
Top Album: Amy & Willie Live - Ledward Kaapana
Genre: Slack-key guitar, Traditional Hawaiian
Top Album: Slack Key Guitar Masters
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Liliuokalani Write Aloha ‘Oe?
She wrote it after witnessing a heartfelt goodbye between two people at a ranch in Hawaii.
What Themes are Found in the Lyrics of Aloha ‘Oe?
Themes include parting, love, longing, and the beauty of Hawaiian nature.
