What is ernie cruz jr.?

Ernie Cruz Jr. was a Hawaiian musician known for his soulful voice and his ability to blend traditional Hawaiian music with other genres such as R&B, pop, and rock. He was born on January 1, 1967, in Waimanalo, Oahu, Hawaii, and was the son of legendary Hawaiian musician, Ernie Cruz Sr.

Cruz Jr. started his music career in the 1980s as a member of the Hawaiian group, Ka`au Crater Boys. The group gained popularity in Hawaii and became known for their upbeat, island-style music. In 1996, Cruz Jr. embarked on a solo career and released his debut album, "Portraits," which earned him a Na Hoku Hanohano Award for Best R&B Album.

Throughout his career, Cruz Jr. released several albums, including "Kane'ohe" and "The Paradise In Me," which showcased his unique blend of Hawaiian music and other genres. He also collaborated with other Hawaiian musicians such as Jake Shimabukuro and Willie K, and performed at numerous music festivals and concerts.

Sadly, Cruz Jr. passed away on July 28, 2016, at the age of 49, due to complications from a heart attack. He was remembered by many as a talented musician with a kind heart and a passion for sharing the beauty of Hawaiian music with the world.