As expected, netizens wanted information on Bruddah Waltah’s cause of death, obituary, and funeral when the sad news of his passing hit the internet. Bruddah Waltah died on Tuesday, August 17, 2023, but as of the time of filing this report, his cause of death has not been established. Meanwhile, all over social media, his obituary has been shared as fans mourn him.
Before focusing more on his death and its related matters, let’s look at Waltah’s personality.
Who was Bruddah Waltah?
In the island breeze of Hawaii, there lived a talented soul named Bruddah Walter. A harmonious blend of singer, guitarist, and lyricist, he hailed from the picturesque land of Keaukaha, a stone’s throw away from Hilo. Yet destiny’s winds carried his family to Oahu during his early boyhood days. It was within the vibrant embrace of Waikiki that his journey took flight in the 1980s, the time when he came to be known as “Bruddah Waltah.” Together with musical companions like Island Afternoon, his melodious prowess breathed life into the Hawaiian-style reggae scene, etching his name as the revered Father of Hawaiian Reggae in the tapestry of time.
In the tapestry of time, Aipolani, alongside his siblings, stepped onto the stage in 1980, enthralling the audience under the name Aku Palu—meaning “Bloody Fish Guts.” The fates, however, dealt a harsh hand as tragedy struck with the loss of their manager, just on the cusp of their inaugural CD release. Thus, the band dispersed, seeking refuge for a stint within their uncle’s Hawaiian music ensemble, Na Mele Kani. During this juncture, fate’s melody led them to the embrace of Bob Marley’s tunes, a gift from their dancing and musically-inclined sister, who was journeying through New Zealand.
In the heart of Honolulu, a new chapter commenced in 1983 as the brothers unveiled a series of soulful performances, christened as Tumbleland Jams. As their understanding of Rasta culture deepened, they embarked on this musical journey, each noting a testament to their growth. Within the lilting verses of “Sweet Lady of Waihole,” Walter Aipolani’s craft immortalized the local legend, Fujiko Shimabukuro, a purveyor of succulent fruits.
The early 1990s ushered in a Hawaiian reggae revolution, colloquially dubbed Jawaiian, which found its home within Waltah’s debut album “Hawaiian Reggae.” Accompanied by the harmonious rhythms of Island Afternoon, this masterpiece carved its place among the stars of Hawaiian success, a symphony that resonated with nearly 100,000 cassette tape enthusiasts.
Aipolani and his kindred spirits within the Hawaiian reggae realm favored the term “Hawaiian” over “Jawaiian,” a nomenclature that ruffled their creative feathers. This preference sprouted from a shared sentiment that the latter term cast a shadow over the rich traditions of Hawaii and Jamaica alike, birthing debates and dialogues in its wake. The strings of Aipolani’s influence stretched across musical collaborations with luminaries like Ryan Hiraoka, Keaka Kawaauhau, HHB, Dirty Roots, Mana’o Company, Sons of Yeshua, and Ho’aikane. His artistry was a harmonious fusion, drawing inspiration from the likes of Bob Marley, Elton John, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Bee Gees, and The Beatles.
Amidst the spotlight, Aipolani shared stages with renowned figures like Steel Pulse, Gregory Isaacs, Inner Circle, and UB40, all while embarking on numerous musical odysseys. The rhythm of creativity flowed within the family’s veins, as evidenced by his sister, a sibling, and his nephew, Ruban Nielson, the driving force behind the band Unknown Mortal Orchestra. Today, the echoes of Bruddah Waltah’s melodies grace both the tranquil Hawaiian Isles and the bustling mainland of the United States, a testament to his enduring musical voyage.
Bruddah Waltah’s cause of death, obituary, funeral
The exact cause of Bruddah Waltah’s passing remains undisclosed. Throughout various social media platforms, colleagues, fans, and loved ones are expressing their sorrow. On Facebook, a family member conveyed the unfortunate news in these words:
“Dear family and friends, it is with a profound sense of sadness that we inform you about the loss of our beloved Husband, Father, Brother, Grandfather, Tutu Man, Bruddah Waltah Aipolani. He peacefully breathed his last while being surrounded by his dearest family at his residence in Hilo. We extend our gratitude for the love, prayers, and support offered during this challenging period. He found immense joy in captivating audiences with his performances and sharing his voice with the world. His affection and music have deeply influenced countless lives. Although we’ll feel his absence in this lifetime, we hold the belief that we shall reunite. He shall endure eternally through his melodies and his enduring legacy. #HONAUNAU #WENOTPAUYET – Aipolani ‘Ohana”
Jim Sequeira, a close friend, expressed, “Today, I am filled with sorrow to hear of the passing of my cousin Bruddah Waltah, as he transcends from this earthly realm to the celestial realm, reuniting with our forebears. We are linked as cousins through our maternal lineage. His smile, Aloha spirit, and playful mannerisms will be dearly missed. Cuz’, I hold deep affection for you. Farewell for now, until we rendezvous on the opposite shore.”
Details about the funeral services for Bruddah Waltah are currently in preparation and will be disseminated to the general public by the family in due course.
