Category: History

The Day the Music Died

February 3, 1959, is etched into the annals of music history as ‘The Day the Music Died.’ This somber day saw the untimely demise of three extraordinary musicians: Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, in a tragic plane crash near Clear Lake, Iowa. Their loss was not just a personal tragedy …

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Aretha Franklin: 1st Female Artist in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul,” was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who rose to fame during the 1960s for her powerful voice and emotive performances. Franklin’s career spanned over six decades and her influence on the music industry is undeniable. One of her most significant achievements was being the first female artist to …

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Albert Frey: A Master of Desert Modernism

Born in Zurich, Switzerland on October 18, 1903, Albert Frey is widely recognized as a master of Desert Modernism. Born and educated in Switzerland, Frey’s architectural skills were honed under the tutelage of Le Corbusier, a pioneer of modern architecture. However, it was upon his move to the United States, and specifically to Palm Springs, that …

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Tiki Dresses Over the Years

I want a Tiki Dress! They are so colorful and lovely. Back in the 1950s Women’s dresses had two main shapes. They were full circle skirts and very narrow pencil shape dresses. The big difference between the standard dress in the 50s and the Tiki style was the material and the colors. Tropical print fabrics …

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What Does Tiki Mean in Hawaiian?

Aloha! If you’ve ever visited the beautiful islands of Hawaii or have an interest in Hawaiian culture, you might have come across the term “tiki” at some point. But what does tiki mean in Hawaiian? Well, let me tell you, tiki is a term that holds great significance in Hawaiian culture and traditions. In short, …

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The Artistry and History of Stained Glass: Exploring a Timeless Craft

Step back in time and discover the mesmerizing world of stained glass. This timeless craft has been captivating hearts and minds for centuries, combining intricate designs with the play of light and color. From the grandeur of medieval cathedrals to the subtle beauty of Tiffany lamps, stained glass has left a mark on the art …

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The Inspiration Behind “Hey Jude”

On this day September 18, 1996, Julian Lennon made the winning bid of just over $39,000 (£21,000) at Sotheby’s in London for the recording notes for the song “Hey Jude,” which Paul McCartney wrote for young Julian to comfort and encourage him during his parents’ divorce. Originally titled “Hey Jules,” Paul McCartney comments on the song’s …

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The Real Story of Tiki Totem Poles as Ancestry Preservation

We are used to the words “totem pole” to mean those long poles with carved figures on them. Usually we see totem poles with wings from birds or other animals. But in the Pacific islands, these pole structures are called Tiki poles or Tiki totem poles. Tiki totem poles from the islands of the Pacific …

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The Ukulele: Made Famous by Tiki

Originally, the ukulele was brought to Hawaii from the West. However, it was Hawaii and Tiki music that actually made the ukulele a mainstream instrument, and an instrument synonymous with Tiki music. When we think back of Hawaiian music, it is hard to imagine this music without the cheerful sound of the ukulele. This is …

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Experience the Beautiful Hawaiian Language

Because of the recent Tiki resurgence, there is also a renewed interest in the Hawaiian language. And, with Southwest Airlines adding direct flights to Hawaii from Los Angeles, it seems the interest in Hawaii and all things Tiki has been felt in the corporate world even affecting recent travel to the Islands. The Hawaiian language …

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