Journey to the heart of Hawaiian culture with Island Emery on this episode of The Little Grass Shack as we explore the history, legacy, and global impact of the Merrie Monarch Festival—often called the "Olympics of Hula."

Learn how King David Kalākaua, the Merrie Monarch himself, helped revive Hawaiian traditions and preserve hula during a pivotal time in Hawaii's history. Discover how the festival began in Hilo following the 1960 tsunami, how it evolved into the world's premier hula competition, and why it remains one of the most important celebrations of Hawaiian language, music, genealogy, and cultural identity.

Along the way, Island Emery shares the traditions that make Merrie Monarch so special, including Hula Kahiko, Hula ʻAuana, the Royal Parade, arts and crafts fairs, Hawaiian storytelling, and the spirit of aloha that welcomes thousands of visitors each year.

Whether you're passionate about Hawaiian culture, planning a trip to Hawaii, or simply love island music, this episode offers an informative and inspiring look at one of Hawaii's greatest cultural treasures.

The Little Grass Shack is your weekly destination for Hawaiian music, island culture, and the spirit of aloha.

Travel through Hawaiian history and culture with Island Emory on this special edition of Little Grass Shack. This episode explores the remarkable story of Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States and one of Hawaii's most powerful symbols of sovereignty, resilience, and cultural pride.

Learn about King Kalākaua's vision for a modern Hawaiian Kingdom, the reign of Queen Liliʻuokalani, the overthrow of the monarchy, and the restoration of one of Hawaii's most treasured landmarks. Along the way, enjoy a vibrant soundtrack featuring island reggae, Hawaiian contemporary music, local favorites, and classic aloha spirit.

From royal history to modern Hawaiian identity, Little Grass Shack celebrates the people, culture, music, and stories that continue to define Hawaii and the Ninth Island community.

This week on Little Grass Shack, Island Emery honors one of Hawaii's most beloved and influential musical groups, The Makaha Sons. Discover the story behind their rise from the west side of Oahu to becoming worldwide ambassadors of Hawaiian music, language, and culture.

Learn about the group's origins, the contributions of Israel Kamakawiwoʻole, their dedication to preserving Hawaiian traditions, and the timeless songs that continue to inspire generations. Featuring island music favorites, cultural storytelling, and the spirit of aloha, this episode celebrates the enduring legacy of The Makaha Sons and their impact on Hawaii and beyond.

Join Island Emery for another journey to paradise on Little Grass Shack, your source for Hawaiian music, culture, and aloha on 91.5 KUNV.

Join Island Emory on this special edition of Little Grass Shack as we explore the beauty, mystery, and history of Sacred Falls (Kaliuwaʻa) on the island of Oahu. Journey deep into the Koʻolau Mountains to discover the ancient Hawaiian legends surrounding this sacred valley, the powerful mana believed to reside there, and the cultural significance that has made Sacred Falls one of Hawaii's most revered locations. Along the way, Island Emory shares the story of the tragic 1999 rockslide that permanently changed the future of the site and reflects on the lessons of respect, remembrance, and aloha that continue to echo throughout the islands today. Combined with the best in Hawaiian and island music, this episode offers a meaningful look at one of Hawaii's most powerful and unforgettable places.

Experience the spirit of aloha with this special episode of Little Grass Shack on 91.5 Jazz & More KUNV Las Vegas, hosted by Island Emory.

In this tropical journey, Island Emory explores the legendary history and cultural significance of Diamond Head (Leʻahi), one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks. From ancient Hawaiian navigators and sacred traditions to military history and modern tourism, this episode blends Hawaiian storytelling with relaxing island music and authentic aloha vibes.

Listeners will discover:
🌺 The origin story of Diamond Head (Leʻahi)
🌴 Hawaiian legends and sacred traditions
🌊 Ancient Polynesian navigation history
🔥 The volcanic creation of Diamond Head
🎶 Hawaiian reggae, island classics, and tropical sounds
🏝 The meaning of aloha and Hawaiian culture
🌺 Why Diamond Head remains a symbol of Hawaiian pride and resilience

Little Grass Shack is your island getaway on 91.5 Jazz & More KUNV Las Vegas — bringing the sounds, stories, and spirit of the islands to listeners everywhere.

Mahalo for listening and keeping aloha alive.

This special edition of Little Grass Shack on 91.5 Jazz & More KUNV pays tribute to legendary Hawaiian vocalist Darren Benitez, one of the most beloved voices in Hawaiian music history. Hosted by Island Emery, this heartfelt episode explores Darren Benitez’s musical journey from Waimea on the Big Island of Hawaii to becoming one of the defining falsetto voices in island music.

Featuring classic Hawaiian songs, island reggae favorites, emotional storytelling, and memories from Darren Benitez’s remarkable career, this episode celebrates the aloha spirit and lasting influence he left on Hawaiian culture and music.

Listeners will hear stories about:

• Darren Benitez’s rise through Hawaiian music
• His groundbreaking album Broken Hearts
• His signature falsetto vocal style
• Performances across Hawaii and Las Vegas
• His influence on future generations of Hawaiian musicians
• The enduring legacy of traditional and contemporary island music

This episode of Little Grass Shack features a relaxing blend of Hawaiian music, island reggae, local favorites, and contemporary island artists, creating the perfect soundtrack for Sunday afternoons and island escape listening.

If you love Hawaiian music, island reggae, aloha spirit, ukulele music, falsetto vocals, and relaxing tropical vibes, Little Grass Shack delivers the authentic sound of the islands every week from Las Vegas to Hawaii and beyond.

Produced at KUNV Studios on the campus of UNLV in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Step inside Little Grass Shack with Island Emory on 91.5 Jazz & More for a powerful journey through Hawaiian history, island culture, and the spirit of aloha. In this special episode, Island Emory explores the fascinating story of the Robbins family—one of Hawaii’s early settler families—and their role in shaping the islands through commerce, education, and cultural connection. Blending Hawaiian storytelling with island music favorites, this episode celebrates the multicultural evolution of Hawaii, the meaning of aloha, and the enduring legacy of families who helped build paradise. Experience Hawaiian history, island vibes, and the best of aloha-inspired radio storytelling from the ninth island.

Journey through Hawaiian history and island culture with Island Emery on Little Grass Shack, only on 91.5 Jazz & More KUNV. This episode explores the remarkable story of King Kaumualiʻi, the wise ruler of Kauaʻi who chose diplomacy, peace, and aloha over war in the face of King Kamehameha’s rise. Through Hawaiian music, reggae, island favorites, and powerful storytelling, discover how Kauaʻi became the only island to join the Hawaiian Kingdom peacefully—preserving its people through courage, wisdom, and leadership. Experience authentic island vibes, cultural pride, and the spirit of aloha from the ninth island.