Podcast Show Notes:
On this episode of Backstage Bay Area, Steve Roby speaks with Daniel Ho, a six-time Grammy-winning musician, composer, producer, and slack key guitarist, ahead of his upcoming appearance at SFJAZZ’s Joe Henderson Lab.

In the conversation, Ho reflects on his musical roots in Honolulu, where the ʻukulele first became part of his daily life, and traces his path from Hawaii to Los Angeles, where he studied composition and arranging at the Grove School of Music. He also discusses the mentors who shaped him, the importance of versatility, and how he continues to study and refine his craft.

The interview also explores Ho’s broader philosophy of music-making — spanning composition, performance, recording, mastering, instrument design, and visual presentation. He discusses how that way of thinking has shaped his long career, including his years with Kilauea, his work in Hawaiian and world music, and the creative process behind his more recent recordings.

Steve and Daniel also discuss two featured songs: “Waimea Bay,” which dates back to Ho’s Kilauea years and became a familiar track on Bay Area radio, and “Ríl Dé Máirt (Tuesday Reel),” from Timbre & Echoes, inspired by the Ukulele Tuesday community in Dublin.

The songs featured in this episode — “Waimea Bay” and “Ríl Dé Máirt (Tuesday Reel)” — were provided by the artist and used with the artist’s permission.

In the final part of the interview, Ho previews his upcoming SFJAZZ show, discusses the quartet joining him onstage, and shares what he enjoys about performing in a room as intimate as the Joe Henderson Lab.

Upcoming Show:
Daniel Ho
SFJAZZ Joe Henderson Lab
Saturday, May 2, 2026
7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Links:
Daniel Ho: danielho.com
Tickets: SFJAZZ
Backstage Bay Area: backstagebayarea.com