Melveen Leed - Don Ho's Statue Dedication Ceremony

I'll Remember You
Written by Ku'i Lee

Melveen Leed - Don Ho's Statue Dedication Ceremony

Don Ho, a renowned musician of the 1960s, captivated audiences at the International Market Place in Waikīkī with his exceptional talent. Drawing both local Hawaiian residents and international visitors in record numbers, Ho left an indelible mark on Hawaiian music and history. To honor his tremendous contributions, the International Market Place, which is set to celebrate its one-year anniversary on August 25, unveiled a unique bronze statue of the performer on Sunday, Aug. 13.

The commemorative statue pays tribute to Don Ho's legacy at the International Market Place, where he gained widespread popularity. Ron Loch, the vice president of planning and design for Taubman, expressed gratitude to all those involved in creating this timeless piece. The statue's placement was carefully considered, strategically positioned to welcome guests with the warmest aloha as they enter the center from Kalākaua Avenue.

The statue was unveiled on what would have been the entertainer's 87th birthday. Hundreds of admirers gathered beneath the 160-year-old banyan tree at the International Market Place, including members of the Ho family. Longtime friends and fellow musicians such as Henry Kapono, Melveen Leed, Marlene Sai, Nina Keali‘iwahamana, Kimo Kahoano, Nathan Aweau, Joe Mundo, Angel Pablo, and James Dela Cruz participated in a kanikapila jam session and paid musical tributes to Don Ho. The festivities were attended by Ho's children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, as well as Governor David Y. Ige and First Lady Dawn Amano-Ige.

Haumea Ho, Don Ho's wife, described him as the epitome of Hawai‘i, embodying the spirit of aloha. She expressed pride in his legacy, stating that the memorial statue allows him to continue sharing his aloha for many years to come in a place he held dear.

The bronze sculpture, standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 300 pounds, was designed by O‘ahu-based artist Kim Duffett. It depicts Don Ho in the 1970s, capturing his warmth, charisma, and carefree aloha that enchanted audiences. Duffett extensively researched Ho's life, gathered historic photos, and engaged in conversations with the singer's family and friends to draw inspiration. The artist aimed to create a signature performance pose, as if Don Ho was inviting someone from the audience to join him on stage, a gesture he frequently made during his shows. Duffett, who is also a musician, participated in the kanikapila event.

Don Ho's statue dedication is part of the month-long celebration of the International Market Place's one-year anniversary (August 25). The celebration includes various events and promotions, such as the Island Vibes Summer Concert Series, Waikīkī Nights: Duke Kahanamoku Movie Night in partnership with the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku and Duke's OceanFest, opportunities to earn HawaiianMiles, and a special performance by the Royal Hawaiian Band.

Have You Seen These Islands
Written by Danny Couch