“Beloved Musician Bruddah Waltah Passes Away at Age 55”

Bruddah Waltah Obituary: The music community is mourning the loss of Walter Aipolani, affectionately known as Bruddah Waltah, who has sadly passed away. Recognized as the “Father of Hawaiian Reggae,” Bruddah Waltah leaves behind a profound legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences.

The news of Bruddah Waltah’s passing was shared by his daughter, Aipolani Ohana, on Facebook. She announced that the revered musician peacefully departed in his Hilo, Hawaii home, surrounded by his loved ones. Bruddah Waltah had valiantly battled a severe form of liver cancer since mid-2021.

Despite his health struggles, Bruddah Waltah’s determination and passion for music remained unwavering. In a concert held on Hawaii’s Big Island last year, fellow musicians organized a special event to honor him and raise funds for his medical expenses. During this heartfelt gathering, Bruddah Waltah openly discussed his ongoing battle with illness, expressing uncertainty about his future performances.

Walter Aipolani, who passed away at the age of 68, was a remarkable Hawaiian vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter. It was during the 1980s, while captivating audiences in Waikiki, that he earned the moniker “Bruddah Waltah,” a name that became synonymous with his musical prowess.

Notably, Bruddah Waltah was hailed as the “Father of Hawaiian Reggae” due to his influential role in popularizing Hawaiian-style reggae music. His band, Island Afternoon, played a pivotal role in spreading this unique genre worldwide during the 1980s and 1990s.

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Bruddah Waltah Cause of death

After a courageous year-long battle with liver cancer, Walter Aipolani, the renowned Hawaiian singer, guitarist, and songwriter, has sadly passed away. His departure at the age of 68 signifies the end of an extraordinary musical journey.

Bruddah Waltah first rose to prominence in the 1980s with his mesmerizing performances in Waikiki, earning him the revered title of Bruddah Waltah.

During the vibrant 1980s and 1990s, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Hawaiian Reggae music scene, propelling Hawaiian-style reggae onto the global stage.

Last July, a momentous concert was held on the Big Island to pay homage to Bruddah Waltah and raise funds for his cause. Esteemed Hawaiian musicians, including Mark Yamanaka and Friends, Randy Lorenzo, Ben Kaili and Friends, and many others, took part in this heartfelt tribute.

The concert took place at the Palace Theatre in Hilo, Bruddah Waltah’s hometown, infusing the event with an even deeper sense of significance and meaning.

Although unable to attend, Bruddah Waltah’s presence was felt through two special performances. These poignant renditions were captured in a Palace Theatre video series titled “Live From the Empty Palace.”

The first performance featured the timeless song “Church in an Old Hawaiian Town,” a beloved tune from 1938. The second performance showcased “To Love Somebody,” a heartfelt rendition of The Bee Gees’ song, reflecting Bruddah Waltah’s admiration for the iconic band.

Bruddah Waltah maintained a modest presence on social media, particularly on Facebook, where he connected with fans outside of his concerts. His last health update was shared in May 2023. The indelible mark he has left on Hawaiian music serves as a testament to his passion, care, and invaluable contributions to the music community.