How a Song “One In Love” Changed My Life and Career - Part 2

Kevin shares his journey from aspiring professional singer to award-winning artist in the early 1980s — Part 2.

In Part 1 of my recollections, I shared that I knew my life and career were about to change. They certainly did — but what followed went far beyond anything I could have imagined.

After the shock and awe of that night wore off, my previously steady career suddenly shifted into overdrive. I was interviewed by television and print media — newscasters, newspapers, and magazines. The story of a lesser-known underdog pulling off a big win proved irresistible.

Almost overnight, I went from singing in piano bars, lounges, and nightclubs to guest-starring on shows and co-starring in showrooms with established artists like Carole Kai. I also received strong investor support for my third album, New Dimensions, a Hawaii–Los Angeles–produced record produced by Bob Wilson, leader of the legendary band Seawind.

Opportunities continued to unfold. I was invited by major political figures to sing at fundraisers, and appeared frequently as a guest on radio shows, and Melinda Caroll and I were selected to headline the 1983 NBC halftime show for the Hula Bowl.

I was named one of the Stars of the Eighties by the Honolulu Star-Bulletin and honored as Male Singer of the Year by Honolulu Advertiser entertainment editor Wayne Harada — along with many other milestones too numerous to list. I was also asked to be one of four co-hosts for a morning variety show called “Good Morning Paradise” on KHNL and was asked to sing the show’s theme song.

So when I say that singing “One In Love” changed my life and career, it’s no exaggeration. Just as meaningful, it gave my parents peace of mind. What once felt like a risky career choice was now validated in their eyes, and that meant everything to me.

And so, here we are. Today, on Valentine’s Day, and I’m finally fulfilling a promise I made to Manny Cabral 44 years ago — to record his song for posterity with a proper studio version of “One In Love.” While it took more than four decades to deliver on that promise, I did keep my word, with tremendous help from my producer and good friend, Lance Jyo.

My hope is that today — and every day — this beautiful love song helps people celebrate the love in their lives. “One In Love” will always hold a special place in my heart. It legitimized my singing career and opened the door to so many blessings and opportunities before I stepped away in 1986. And since Valentine’s Day is also my birthday, instead of receiving gifts, I’m offering one — to everyone. A musical love song. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Listen to “One In Love” now on Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Music!