Desi Relator is one of Southern California’s busiest musical artists! His performances offer something different and new while always being a bit reminiscent of old Hawaii. Desi’s voice is smooth and rich and his sweet-sounding, melodic guitar playing will either evoke a nostalgic feeling or urge you to get up and bust a move!
His style has the foundations of true island beats, but has flavors of Latin, Motown, country and surfer vibes. His music covers favorites that span the decades- Sinatra, Louis Prima, Jimmy Buffet, Van Morrison, Ed Sheeran, Leon Bridges, Adelle and countless others. This man even yodels!
His musical forte is classic and contemporary Hawaiian music. However, what Desi is best known for is his incredible sense of showmanship and his wide variety of musical knowledge. He is a distinctive entertainer with a fun-loving, laid back presence, sure to transport you to the islands!
Desi was born and raised on Oahu, Hawaii. His mother is a hula-dancing, ukulele playing, native of Kauai. She taught Desi how to play the ukulele and guitar when he was barely able to hold the instruments in his hands! Desi later became a protégé of renowned ukulele teacher, Roy Sakuma. Throughout years of Catholic school, Desi learned to play guitar well, sing and harmonize. By the time he reached the age of fourteen, Desi was becoming noticed for his beautiful voice. Desi’s dad was a volleyball player at University of Hawaii. When not singing, Desi was on the court or at the beach practicing his serves and jumps- with Dad coaching on the sidelines. Desi went on to play volleyball for Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.
After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Business at LMU, he continued to play in Hawaiian bands in the Los Angeles area. He moved back to Oahu with his wife and children for six years, and then returned to California. Desi’s musical career expanded into songwriting and sound engineering when he produced his first CD in late 2013. Since then, he has been performing and producing full-time in the music industry.
Surfing is an almost daily pastime for this musician. When he’s not performing, he can be found living in a beach cottage in San Diego with his wife. Together they paddle outrigger canoes, bicycle and stand-up paddle. Between long-boarding and music, he is passionate about life and shares his gratitude and happy spirit with all who meet him.