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Gifted Hawaiian vocalist and musician John Martin Pahinui died in his Waimanalo home Sunday morning after a long battle with cancer, his family announced. He was 65.
The youngest of Gabby and Emily Pahinui's 10 children, Martin Pahinui carried on his family's legacy of music with solo recordings and performances alongside some of Hawaii's top artists.
Born and raised on Oahu, Martin Pahinui also lived on Maui for several years. A gentle man with a big voice, he had an incredible vocal range, from a deep low bass to a high and haunting falsetto. He played the bass, guitar and slack key, but his live performances were dominated by his strong, soulful voice.
Over the years, Martin Pahinui combined his talents with his accomplished musician father in The Gabby Pahinui Hawaiian Band, and with his brothers Bla and Cyril as The Pahinui Brothers. He also performed with artists like Peter Moon, David and Dennis Kamakahi, Rodney Arias, Eddie Lilikoi and George Kuo.
Martin Pahinui had the ability to perform songs of all genres, from rock 'n' roll, oldies, funk, pop, reggae, Hawaiian, and hits from his favorite band, The Beatles. A highlight of his career was meeting Ringo Starr and talking to George Harrison.
Some time ago, Martin Pahinui was diagnosed with cancer and underwent several treatments. However, due to a weakened heart condition, he stopped treatments and accepted his future with a growing faith and strong, supportive family, according to the family's statement.
Throughout his life, Martin Pahinui enjoyed golf, fishing, Kaiona Beach ramp and spending time with family and friends. He had a passion for fireworks as well as "Star Wars."
He is survived by wife Ruth, sons Gabby and Kale, numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters, and all the many musician family members he touched over the years.