Apr 10 2024
Happy birthday to the “father of exotica” Martin Denny, born on this day April 10, 1911 in New York, NY. Martin Denny’s album Exotica is a genre-defining blend of jazz, world music, and tropical sounds that captured the imagination of a generation. With its lush instrumentation and evocative melodies, Denny’s music continues to inspire and delight …
Jun 08 2023
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 …
May 20 2023
Tak Shindo, born in 1922, was a Japanese-American musician, composer, and arranger known for his contributions to the exotica genre in the mid-20th century. Exotica, a form of lounge music that incorporated elements of various ethnic and indigenous musical styles, became immensely popular in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. Shindo’s innovative fusion …
May 07 2023
If you’re in the mood for a tropical escape, why not try a tiki movie night? These films are known for their lush island settings, lively music, and colorful characters. From classic musicals to modern comedies, there’s something for everyone on this list of must-see tiki movies. Blue Hawaii (1961) Starring the King of Rock …
May 04 2023
Dick Dale, often referred to as “The King of the Surf Guitar,” was a legendary figure in the world of music, particularly within the surf music genre. Born Richard Anthony Monsour on May 4, 1937, he pioneered the surf sound by incorporating Middle Eastern influences and innovative guitar techniques. With his powerful and energetic playing …
Apr 30 2023
The Enchanted Tiki Room, a beloved and iconic attraction at Disneyland, first opened its doors to the public on June 23, 1963. This groundbreaking and innovative show, located in the heart of Adventureland, was the first of its kind to feature Audio-Animatronics technology, setting a new standard for themed entertainment. Walt Disney’s vision for the …
Apr 27 2023
Over the years, water entertainment has evolved in unique and fascinating ways. From the advent of luxurious yachts to the surge of jet skis, water entertainment has always provided a thrilling experience for enthusiasts. Today, a new wave in water entertainment has emerged, known as the tiki boat phenomenon. The tiki boat, a unique and …
Apr 25 2023
Arthur Lyman, a prominent figure in the world of exotica music and “the King of Lounge music,” was a talented musician renowned for his soothing marimba playing and enchanting jazz compositions. Born in 1932 in Kauai, Hawaii, he spent his formative years absorbing the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian islands, which later played a significant …
Apr 18 2023
Polynesian mythology is a fascinating and diverse collection of stories, legends, and beliefs that have been passed down through generations, shaping the cultural identity of the people who inhabit the Polynesian islands. These islands stretch across the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean and include the Hawaiian Islands, New Zealand, Samoa, and Tahiti, among many …
Mar 14 2023
Many animals have come to be associated with tiki over the years, and here are some of the most prominent ones, how they became part of tiki culture, and a look at some of Hawaii’s most interesting animals. The Toucan When we think of the Toucan bird, we think of Tiki. In fact, these birds …
