Introducing Kona-Music

 

Robert "Kenui" Pope

Robert “Kenui” Pope originally from Maui, Hawaii started with the ukulele as his first instrument, followed by piano and the upright bass. With his Dad and band director as his mentors, Robert gained an appreciation for music that still follows him today.

Robert’s signature blend is a result of growing up with the rock and roll of the 60’s, Hawaiian sounds of the islands and the blues during his years in New Orleans. He has been involved with several genres that include: hula troops, jazz quartets, church ensembles, Hawaiian and Jawaiian duos, blues and classic rock bands. Robert moved to the Atlanta area in 2002, where he became part of a vibrant music community.

 

Robert has said of his time living in New Orleans:

"When you have an opportunity to not only hear great blues, but you get to see how and why it is what it is...it influences every aspect of your music." -Robert

 

 

Duane Righter

Duane Righter, originally from Los Angeles, California, started his music career in drums at the age of 12. Atlanta has been home to Duane since 1995. He is a musician and vocal performer with a strong passion to create, write and entertain.

His music background includes over 200 live shows with original songs and covers ranging from the 1960’s to present. His desire and goal is to continue as a songwriter and entertainer, sharing his musical entertainment with as many people as possible.

 

"When the audience can experience the performance on a personal level and they walk away touched by the music, THEN I have achieved my goal." -Duane

 

 

 

Dell Bolos

Dell began playing guitar at age 9 when his father, an accomplished ukulele & guitar player and major influence on Dell’s musical taste, gave Dell his first guitar. Dell’s style is a hybrid of genres having played in bands and projects covering smooth jazz, classic rock, blues, Motown, country, old standards, disco/dance and originals. Dell relocated from Valencia, CA to Marietta, GA in 2001 and loves the South. He adds solid rhythm and melodic leads to the classy sounds of Kona Music.

 

"I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of Kona Music!" -Dell

 

 

Rhonda "Lonake" Wade

Rhonda "Lonake" Wade spent her childhood in Honolulu, Hawaii and has been singing as long as she can remember! Her first solo was in church at the age of 12 and that is when she knew that singing was what she wanted to do!

With over 20 years under her belt, she was the original female in a Top 40 band,  which headlined in Las Vegas and various casinos across the Gulf Coast. During the 90's Rhonda was a lead vocalist in an Event/ Corporate band in Orlando FL.  With a diverse singing ability, she sings everything from Jazz to Pop to Motown. Over the years Rhonda has also been featured singing the National Anthem for the Atlanta Braves as well as a nationally televised marathon for NBC Sports. Confident yet humble, Rhonda is keenly aware that to make good music you must "check your ego at the door!"