Hawaiian Musician Bruddah Waltah Passes Away at 68
Popular Hawaiian singer, guitarist and songwriter Walter Aipolani, better known as Bruddah Waltah, has passed away at the age of 68. The news was shared on Friday, August 18th on his Facebook page by his daughter, Aipolani Ohana.
Bruddah Waltah had been battling an aggressive form of liver cancer since mid-2021. He passed away peacefully at home in Hilo, Hawaii surrounded by his closest family members.
Bruddah Waltah's Musical Legacy
Often called the Father of Hawaiian Reggae, Bruddah Waltah rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s with his band Island Afternoon. They helped take Hawaiian-style reggae music to the global stage.
Bruddah Waltah first became known in the 1980s by playing popular gigs in Waikiki. This is where he got his nickname entertaining tourists.
Throughout his long career, Bruddah Waltah recorded over 10 solo albums. His music blended reggae and Hawaiian folk sounds with his soulful vocals and skilled guitar playing.
Public Appearances in His Final Year
Despite his illness, Bruddah Waltah made a few public appearances in 2022. In July 2021, he attended a benefit concert on the Big Island organized by fellow Hawaiian musicians.
The concert helped raise money for his medical costs related to his cancer treatment. Although he did not perform, Bruddah Waltah recorded two songs that were part of a video series by the Palace Theater in Hilo.
Outpouring of Love from Fans
News of Bruddah Waltah's passing was met with an outpouring of love and memories shared by fans online.
Many expressed how his music touched their lives over the decades. His family thanked everyone for their support during this difficult time.
Social Media Posts in Final Months
Even in his final months, Bruddah Waltah remained active on social media like Facebook. He offered glimpses into his health struggles with cancer and chemotherapy.
His last public post was in late May 2023. He performed small shows in the first half of 2022 before his health worsened.
In His Own Words
Last year, amidst his cancer battle, Bruddah Waltah said:
"I'm going till the wheels fall off. Then, on my gravestone, it's going to say, 'The wheels fell off.'"
After close to a year fighting cancer, the wheels finally fell off for this beloved Hawaiian musician. But he leaves a lasting legacy with his iconic music.
Family Says Goodbye
In their social media post announcing Bruddah Waltah's death, his family wrote:
"We'll miss him in this lifetime but we know we will see him again..."
While deeply mourning their loss, the family finds solace knowing he is at peace after a courageous battle with cancer.
Bruddah Waltah's soulful music brought joy to many over his long career. Though he is gone, his memory will live on through his songs.
