Arlie’s Backstory
Composer, Musician, & Instructor
Arlie-Avery Asiu is a Maui musician and 3-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award Finalist. Growing up on the island, he started playing the ‘Ukulele at an early age, and at 9 years old composed his first original song. At twelve years old he got his first guitar and soon after his older brother introduced him to a broad world of music, from KISS to Van Halen to George Benson. After hearing these fresh sounds, Arlie knew he wanted to be part of a rock band. In his early 20s, he played electric guitar in the bands Kitty Bones Jones, Suckin Frikas, and The Fun Loving Infidels.
In his late 20s, Arlie picked up the ‘Ukulele again and began composing ukulele songs, receiving positive feedback from friends and family. When it came time to get married, Arlie went into the studio to record an original song to give as a wedding favor to his guests. This one song turned into his first EP, ‘Everything In Its Time’. Soon after, Arlie caught the attention of Hawaii’s Blues legend, Uncle Willie K, and enjoyed the honor of opening Willie K’s Blues Shows and Sunday Brunches at The King Kamehameha Golf Club.
In 2016 Arlie released his first LP ‘Ukulele off the Couch,’ followed by ‘My Dog Has Fleas’. Inspired by the late Willie K’s dream to make a book called ‘Arlie & His Magic ‘Ukulele,’ in 2021 Arlie released an album with the same name.
About
Arlie Asiu Band
The Arlie Asiu Band is becoming a staple in the local music scene. They play at community events, local festivals, and popular venues, bringing a fresh and innovative approach to showcase the ‘Ukulele. Their presence entertains and inspires audiences.
The Arlie Asiu Band’s musical style is a captivating blend of melodies with contemporary rock influences. They seamlessly incorporate elements of rock, jazz, and classical music, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Drawing inspiration from Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage and diverse musical landscape, the band crafts performances that resonate with audiences of all ages.
ABOUT THE BAND MEMBERS
SKYLER STOOK (RHYTHM 'UKULELE)
Skyler is a graduate of Maui High School and is currently in his Junior Year at UH Mānoa, majoring in Communicology. He is a self-taught musician, skilled in playing many instruments, including the ‘Ukulele, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, drums, piano, and more. In between his studies, he performs with the College’s Jazz Ensemble and has been a member of the Arlie Asiu Band since its inception in 2020.
EDDEE SEBALA (BASS)
Eddee has been a gigging musician since 1976. Playing drums in elementary and high school, Eddee switched to bass guitar in his sophomore year and joined a classmate’s Top 40 band. Bass guitar remained his main instrument for the next 30 years, performing various genres of music from traditional Hawaiian to hard rock and everything in between. In addition to being a bassist, Eddee is also comfortable playing the six-string guitar. While utilizing his abilities on both instruments Eddee was once considered by many as the most prolific gig musician in the 1990’s, performing well over 400 gigs a year for almost a decade! Coming out of a forced retirement due to the COVID-19 quarantine, Eddee now provides musical support for the highly talented Arlie Avery Asiu and is starting the next chapter of his performing career.
DANE LOVE (DRUMMER)
Dane Love stands out as a drummer with exceptional versatility and impeccable groove. Following high school marching band, he studied drum set at the Drummers Collective in NYC. Dane focuses on playing in the pocket and enhancing the bands he performs with. Dane does studio session work, performs live, and teaches music.
Lessons
Arlie teaches ukulele lessons to students of all ages, sharing not just technical skills but also his passion for the instrument. His unique approach to teaching, which incorporates his diverse musical influences, helps students develop a well-rounded understanding of music. Unlike traditional ‘Ukulele instruction, which often focuses solely on technique and standard repertoire, Arlie’s lessons emphasize creativity and the exploration of various musical genres. He encourages students to experiment with different styles, from rock and jazz to classical and Hawaiian, fostering a more holistic and personalized musical education. This approach not only builds technical proficiency but also nurtures a deep, enduring passion for music in his students.
“A music teacherʻs passion for their craft is contagious, igniting the flame of inspiration in their students. Arlie is not only skilled at ‘Ukulele, but he is able to create a fun and positive environment for learning. His great energy has helped my two daughters to really flourish.”
“Arlie is a fun, inspiring, creative teacher. He meets students at the level they are at and always brings fresh ideas and interesting music to the lesson.”
Maui Musician
'Ukulele Aficionado