In Part 2 of my story, I reflect on how winning the Hawaii Music Festival transformed my career overnight—opening doors I never imagined and leading me back, decades later, to finally record “One In Love” as a promise fulfilled on Valentine’s Day.

I look back on the night I won the Grand Prize at the 1982 Hawaii Music Festival—a moment that changed my life and set me on a path to the Tokyo Music Festival. From discovering “One In Love” to the people who helped shape the performance, this is where the story begins. Part 2 coming soon.

In this piece, Kamasami Kong reflects on the legacy of Hawaiian AOR and the artists who helped define its sound, highlighting Kevin I. as a standout voice of the genre. Drawing from decades of experience, Kong shares insight into Kevin’s musicianship, vocal style, and the lasting impact of his contributions to AOR and smooth radio culture.

Kevin I. shares an English translation of his Japanese interview from AOR Age (Edition 37 – January 2026), featuring Lance Jyo, Kalapana, and Kamasami Kong.

After four decades away from the studio, Kevin I. stepped back to the microphone to face fear, rediscover his voice, and complete a full-circle project. This is the story behind My Continuum—a journey of faith, resilience, and the joy of creating music again.

Kevin I. reflects on meeting Joe Cocker at the 1983 Tokyo Music Festival, sharing rare behind-the-scenes moments that revealed the rock icon’s humility and surprising stage fright. A brief but meaningful encounter that became one of the most memorable experiences of his early career.

As 2025 comes to an end, I’m filled with gratitude for everyone who supported my return to music this year. From releasing My Continuum to sharing “Christmas In Our Hearts,” your encouragement made this journey incredibly meaningful. As we head into 2026, I look forward to creating more music, exploring new collaborations, and sharing updates here. Thank you for being part of this new chapter.

Christmas is better when we sing together. Kevin I. ranks the top 10 vocal collaborations of all time—from Bing & Bowie to modern harmony groups.

Tired of songs about Santa and sleigh bells? Kevin I. explores the power of meaningful Christmas lyrics—from John Lennon to his own new single—and why we need them now more than ever.

We all know Wham! rules the holidays. But the 80s gave us so much more. Kevin I. counts down the top 10 synth-pop, rock, and soul Christmas hits of the decade.

The chaos of the holiday party is over. You are in the car. The roads are empty. Kevin I. curates the perfect smooth songs for your late-night holiday drive.

We all love "All I Want For Christmas," but sometimes you need a break. 80s artist Kevin I. shares 5 underrated gems—from The Jackson 5 to The Carpenters—that refresh your holiday playlist.

Songs are getting shorter, and the "bridge" is disappearing. Songwriter Kevin I. breaks down why the streaming economy is killing the bridge and lists 3 iconic examples of why we need it back.

Why don't we see power duets like "Endless Love" anymore? Kevin I. explores the art of the 80s duet, lists 3 essentials, and explains the chemistry required to make voices blend.

Japanese "City Pop" is viral, but Kevin I. was actually there. Read his firsthand account of the "Bubble Era" Tokyo music scene and performing at the Tokyo Music Festival.

Ever notice how modern songs just stop? Veteran musician Kevin I. explains the death of the "fade-out," shares 3 iconic examples, and explains why the art of the long outro still matters.

Why is Gen Z obsessed with "Yacht Rock"? Veteran artist Kevin I. breaks down the musical complexity behind the smooth West Coast sound, shares 3 essential albums, and explains why it’s making a massive comeback.

Need the perfect soundtrack for a night drive? 80s artist Kevin I. shares a curated playlist of atmospheric, synth-heavy songs for empty roads and city lights.

Need a Thanksgiving playlist that sets the perfect mood? Kevin I. shares a curated list of acoustic, grateful, and warm songs for your holiday dinner.

Why do we dance to heartbreak? 80s artist Kevin I. explores the art of the "happy-sad" song, from Whitney Houston to his own new track "Shine."