William Alohi Kauhane, known as “Willz,” demonstrated an undeniable connection to music before he started to speak. His first instruments were chopsticks and Planter’s peanut cans, which he used to create beats alongside his papa during family kanikapila sessions in Kāneohe. Videos capture his early rhythmic flair, as he incorporates a brass planter as a makeshift cymbal on his head while wearing nothing but a diaper. By the age of three, Willz’s love for music was evident as he spent hours playing pots and pans until he was wiping the sweat from his brow. His musical inclination was further highlighted in preschool, where he surprised his teacher by humming Mozart and mimicking a conductor at such a tender age.

His eclectic approach to music stems from his exposure to artists from across generations. His papa had him intrigued by the harmonic melodies of Lee Oskar or the smooth voice of Sam Cooke while he was strapped in his car seat cruising the island of Oʻahu. As an “expert” Guitar Hero gamer, he was exposed to rock and roll from the 70s and 80s that turned him on to artists like Mötley Crüe, The Police, Van Halen, and Guns N’ Roses. At the age of 6, he joined the children’s choir at the Volcano Art Center where his choir master recognized his natural ability to drum and suggested piano lessons. At the age of 8, inspired by the Guitar Hero playlist, William performed in his first piano recital, slamming his keys and sharing his young voice with an ambitious rendition of “Sweet Child o’ Mine.”

During his high school years, Willz’s musical talent blossomed even further when he was accepted into the Hilo High School Ambassadors program. Forming the band “One Rhythm” with fellow musically gifted teens, they achieved success by securing first place in the musical band category at the Brown Bags to Stardom contest. This triumph solidified Willz’s passion for pursuing a career in music. Equipped with skills in piano, guitar, ʻukulele, and self-taught drumming, Willz’s journey in music is marked by his unwavering dedication and a genuine love for the craft. His dream of establishing himself in the music industry as a creative and versatile artist continues to drive him forward, ensuring a promising future in the world of music.