Q&A: Sean Olanui Robbins

Sean Olanui Robbins is one of Hawaii’s newest ki hoalu (slack-key guitar) artists and a haku mele (Hawaiian songwriter). He debuted his self-titled album, “Olanui,” in November.

Robbins recently took time out from his busy schedule to tell Big Island Entertainment Scene about his music.

The musician has two upcoming gigs this week: Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. at Brown’s Beach House in Waikoloa. More info: 887-7368

Q: How do you describe your music to people?

A: “I feel that my music is a representation of my influences. I use a lot of slack key, while ranging from falsetto into the lower register and all in between. My songs frequently talk about places that I grew up loving in Puna, as well as new places I’ve traveled.”

Q: Who would enjoy your music and why?

A: “I’m trying to create my own path in Hawaiian music, and not just follow along with has been done before, but I still keep many things that I have learned along the way and put them into my music. So I would hope that any Hawaiian music lovers would enjoy my music.”

Q: When did you start playing and what inspires you to continue playing?

A: “I started playing at age 11. I am inspired to carry on the tradition of Hawaiian music and slack key, because I love the music and couldn’t see myself doing anything else.”

Q: Who are your musical influences and why?

A: “I have been influenced by many great musicians along the way. First, the Keliihoomalu family of Kaimu, Kalapana. Then Uncle Cyril Pahinui, who recently produced my first album.”

Q: How do you hope your music makes people feel?

A: “Music is the universal language that brings us together, not just with each other, but with the land that provides for us, and that is what I hope my music will do for others.”

Follow Sean Robbins on Instagram (SEAN_ROBBINS_MUSIC), Twitter (@seanrmusic), or Facebook (Sean Robbins Music).