Saturday Briefing

By Conchita Malaqui  

Blaine Kia, Michele Leao, Konishiki (seated), Conchita Malaqui, Michael Lougheed, and Sara Lougheed

You may not necessarily know the name Saleva’a Fuauli Atisano’e, but if you’re from Hawaii or Japan, you’re sure to recognize the name Konishiki. For 15 years, Hawaii-born Saleva’a Fuauli Atisano’e enjoyed an exciting career as a sumo wrestler, becoming the first foreigner to rise to the rank of ozeki. In 1997, Konishiki retired from the sport, having reached 733 career wins.

After a prominent sumo-wrestling career in Japan, Konishiki turned his love of music into a second career

Blaine Kia, Michele Leao, Konishiki (seated), Conchita Malaqui, Michael Lougheed, and Sara Lougheed

and has become a well-known member of Hawaii’s music scene. With musical experience from singing in the islands and composing albums, Konishiki, together with a few business partners, established a music company called LOST COAST SOUND, which presents a new vibe of music in town. It is not Hawaiian music, nor can it be categorized as Jawaiian, Local, R&B, or Hip-Hop. It’s a distinct sound that definitely appeals to the young.

The LOST COAST SOUND came to Waikiki Beach Walk on Sunday, November 9, when Konishiki presented artists from his H-POP label. Taking the stage were Laga Savea, J Boog, Siaosi, and Kiwini Vaitai. The music was loud, the beat pulsating, and the energy high. Needless to say, everyone had a great time.

Nancy and Dan Daniels, Conchita Malaqui, and Konishiki (seated)

After the concert, the artists, together with Konishiki, signed CDs and autographs and took pictures with their many fans. Our visitors from Japan were particularly thrilled to be so close to someone of Konishiki’s fame; and those visitors who happened to be staying at the Embassy Suites - Waikiki Beach Walk® got an extra special treat as Konishiki himself sang a couple of songs at the Grand Lanai, where we all went after the LOST COAST SOUND concert.

A number of people helped bring this special program to Waikiki Beach Walk. Many thanks to Ann Suzukawa of Image International Japan and Michele Leao, Public Relations for KPH-Konishiki Power Hawaii. A big mahalo also to Blaine Kia of KIA Enterprises - The Ka Laua’e Foundation for coordinating the sound and logistics for the show. Thanks also go to the Embassy Suites team, including Mark Burson and the Food & Beverage department and Daniel Nakasone and the entire Front Desk and Bell departments. All were instrumental in making Mr. & Mrs. Konishiski and the LOST COAST SOUND group feel welcome. A personal mahalo to my daughter Sara and son-in-law Michael Lougheed, who assisted me that day. Michael is home for a break from the war in Iraq and very much enjoyed helping with setting up for the day’s entertainment.