Big Island musician Hero Alea has released her new single “Work From Home,” a track that incorporates her Polynesian roots into a bass-filled, sensual reggae/pop song. This blend is evident from the beginning of the song, as the distinct Polynesian toere drum tone and rhythm are featured prominently and shape the song’s feel.
Produced by FosterChild, Isaiah Hill, and Eli Mboho, it is the first track of Hero’s five-single EP, to be released later this year, including tracks “Emotional Affair” and “Human Being.”
About Hero
Hero was born and raised in a small town called Kealakekua on the Big Island of Hawaii. She grew up dancing at a luau show with her parents, brother, and extended ‘ohana while attending a Hawaiian immersion school called “Ke Kula ‘o ‘Ehunuikaimalino.” They didn’t have a lot to their name and grew up picking coffee for rent, but her parents worked overtime to give Hero and her brother opportunities to follow their dreams. Most of all, they were happy. As beautiful as Hawaii is, Hero decided that she needed to leave to give herself a better shot at pursuing her passion for mainstream music. After graduating from ‘Ehunui at 17, she flew by herself to Boston to attend Berklee College of Music as a vocalist. That started a beautiful journey of intentional learning and enduring hardships, a celebration of triumphs and dealing with disappointments. Still, most of all, growth into the person and the artist she has become today.
Hero has notebooks full of music she has poured herself into throughout the past six years, but 2022 marks the first time she will share it. Her love for Pop music (thanks to her mother from Tacoma, WA) and her passion for Polynesian sounds (thanks to her dad from Samoa) have given her the power to create one cohesive sound that represents who she is as well. She is indebted to the amazing talents of her musical teammates and friends, who helped bring her songs to life. Also, to her family and her Polynesian culture for inspiring her and being a massive part of getting her thus far. As you hear Hero’s journey through her songs, she hopes you reflect on your path and celebrate your beautiful life with her.
Connect with Hero Alea
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Photo credit: Deondrae Jones