By Rachel Rosenberg

Kaumakaiwa Kanaka‘ole is an award-winning singer and hula dancer, who has appeared on stage with her family since the age of three. Descended from seven generations of activists and artists, all of whom continue to inspire her, her love-infused performances utilize an incredible range that blends baritone chanting with Hawaiian-style falsetto. As a modern transgender Hawaiian, her spellbinding performances unify traditional Hawaiian culture with contemporary sensibilities. We spoke to Kaumakaiwa about what inspires, recharges, and excites her.