HI Finest Talent Contest 2024 - Week 3 | HI93 | Hawaii's Local Hits

We had a special 4th of July edition of the 2024 HI 93 Presents Hawaii’s Finest Talent Contest semi-finals and it was truly one to remember.

Pacific Media Group’s statewide local music radio stations including HI93 Oahu (KQMQ), HI92 Maui (KLHI), HI95 Kauai (KSRF), and KAPA-FM Hawaii Island collaborated with Hawaii’s Finest on a statewide talent contest to help discover and launch Hawaii’s next top star. 14 semi-finalists. One winner. On the line: a grand prize of $1,000, including a recording session and a guaranteed spot at a future Hawaii’s Finest concert!

Week three of the HI Finest Talent Contest, hosted by HI93’s Pu’unui, saw two more semi-finalists hit the stage: Hazel “SweetHwnGurl” from Waianae and Candice Kealohi from Papakolea. Our headliners for the night were the talented Chardonnay and Ten Feet. So, what’s the general consensus for this week?

Let’s just say if you were anywhere else on July 4th, then I feel sorry for you because the REAL fireworks show was at HB Social Club.

Talent #5: Hazel “SweetHwnGurl”

We begin the night with Sweethwngurl (HazelRose KamakaonaonaOkamalani Nahienaena). She serenaded us with covers from two extraordinary artists — “I’d Rather Go Blind” by Etta James, and “Hello” by Adele. First off, wow! Sweethwngurl lit up the night with her powerhouse vocals and impressive performance. These are not easy songs by any means, but she nailed them—hitting the difficult notes and runs. The multifaceted singer truly commanded our attention, winning the entire crowd over with her strong voice and vibrant energy. Plus, I’m a sucker for some good ole classic soul so it was a huge win.

Learn more about Sweethwngurl through our interview Before The Stage and follow her at @sweethwngurl on Instagram.

Talent #6: Candice Kealohi

Next up is Candice Kealohi. She began her set with a cover of “Hell Fire” by Ooklah The Moc. Let me tell you. As soon as the first note dropped, everyone got on the dance floor. The vibe was electric. It was only magnified by Kealohi’s solid vocal performance, which made it a fan favorite. She finished her set with a cover of Anuhea’s “Higher Than The Clouds.” Another strong showcase that resonated with the fans and allowed us to see more of her musical abilities. Kealohi had many supporters, but there was none bigger than her grandma. She was in the front row the entire time, watching and smiling with pride. It was a beautiful and genuine sight to see.

Learn more about Candice Kealohi through our interview Before The Stage and follow her at @candice.molina on Instagram.

Overall Thoughts: The Favorites to Win?

I’m not a judge — and thank god I’m not because they have an extremely tough task — so, my thoughts have no influence over the outcome of the HI Finest Talent Contest. BUT, I think we may have found our top two contenders.

Sweethwngurl and Candice Kealohi both tore the house down with their amazing performances and stunning vocals. The many fans in attendance would agree. They were cheering and dancing for their favorites the whole night. The vibes were at a hundred from the very beginning, which set the tone for the rest of the show. These two ladies really kicked this competition into high gear.

Don’t Miss Week 4 of the HI Finest Talent Contest

I’m telling you. The competition continues to get better and better every week, with each set of contestants topping the next. Week 4 looks to continue the trend. We have two more promising contestants: Caroline from Waipahu and Makamae from Makakilo. Plus, our headliners for the event will be Micah G and Pohaku. These contestants continue to give everything they got, so you do not want to miss this! Tickets are only $10. Get yours at the door.