Paul Shimomoto
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Paul Shimomoto
Hometown: Born in Honolulu; mostly grew up in Kahalu’u
High School: Iolani
Musical occupation?
Vocalist. But I am a corporate attorney by day - my real day job.
How did you get into the music business?
In 2003, I entered and won the vocal competition of the first annual Hapa Haole Music Festival. The prize for winning that competition was an opportunity to record on the Hula Records label. In August, 2004, I released my first CD, Magic Beside the Sea, under the Hula Records label. With that recording came many performance opportunities, most of which were (and still are) private party-type engagements. As more and more people heard my first CD and heard my performances, I was encouraged by many notable names in local entertainment such as Robert Cazimero, Weldon Kekauoha, Nina Keali’iwahamana, Mahi Beamer, Gary Aiko and Danny Kaleikini to pursue my musical talents. In February 2007, I embarked on the recording of Sentimental Alibi, which was just released in December. For this project, I formed my own record label, Leo Hano Records, and produced the CD under that label. It’s funny, but with the first CD I wouldn’t say I was “in the music business” at all. But I think I definitely am with this new release.
How would you describe the sound/style of Sentimental Alibi?
I would describe the sound/style as easy-listening, contemporary island music featuring sophisticated and orchestrated arrangements reminiscent of an era that featured the likes of Alfred Apaka, Nat King Cole and Dean Martin.
Any ongoing or upcoming gigs?
I am not playing anywhere on a regular basis right now, though I am interested in doing so. Mostly my performances are for private engagements. I also am actively pursuing opportunities to perform on the Mainland and in Japan.
What are your goals musically?
In many ways, I am still surprised to find myself where I am with my music. I really fell into it by luck and chance. With the first CD, I always said that if it were the only CD I ever did, well, that was more than a lot of people could say they’ve done. So I really just felt fortunate and would have been content to let that be the end of it. I don’t think a lot has changed, even though I’ve now produced and recorded Sentimental Alibi. I still feel extremely fortunate for what I’ve accomplished in four very short years. This industry is extremely challenging and it changes so quickly, so I really try not to look too far ahead. If anything, I guess I just want to better myself as a vocalist and musician.
Contact info? www.paulshimomoto.com
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