He’s got chops. He’s got pipes....and he has great taste in music!” - David Essig, Canadian Singer-Songwriter/Producer

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MALAKAI

Singer : Songwriter : Instrumentalist

Malakai is a folk-pop based artist who transcends the lines of genre into R&B. Often described as a musical prodigy, at age 15 he is already a seasoned performer. Based on Vancouver Island, Malakai began performing at age 7 and for the past 8 years has been “charming the crowds with his combination of exuberance, surprising stage polish and amazing versatility.” (Cowichan Valley Citizen) 

 A skilled multi-instrumentalist, Malakai began self teaching as a toddler. He has studied under mentors Nico Rhodes for piano and Ray Visscher for guitar.  Malakai sings with a soul surprising in one so young, “after hearing just a few notes, it’s clear to even the average music consumer that Malakai was born with a gift.” (Chek TV)  As an emerging songwriter, Malakai produces ballads rich in lyrics and musical artistry, his songs take the listener on a  journey. 

Determined to build his life around music, Malakai has been honing his skills at his home venue, The Duncan Showroom, where proprietor Longevity John has been a foundation of support. “Malakai never sings a song the same way twice, he has emotion.

As a solo artist, Malakai has been a primary performer in both the Discovery Series at The Port Theatre in Nanaimo and The Cabaret Series at The Cowichan Performing Arts Center. He has been a feature musician at the Folk Alliance International Virtual Conference, Nico Rhodes Chapter Series at The Port Theatre, Norman Foote's Musical Masquerade at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, The Cowichan Folk Guild, and The Nanaimo Blues Festival.  In addition to performing at venues and festivals such as Filberg Festival, Islands Folk Festival, Bathtub Weekend and Rainfest, Malakai is a regular crowd favorite at the 39 Days of July music festival where he was a Musician in Residence this past season. Malakai has opened for many well-known artists including Lynn Miles, Valdy, Norman Foote and Daniel Champagne.

From the time he could talk, Malakai’s relationship with music has been intrinsic to his identity and the source of his ambition. He says, “I need music as much as I need air.” This dynamic young sensation astounds and delights while sharing his own unique style with audiences of all ages.