Celebrating Cultural Diversity Ambassador Dr. Island Emory: The Voice of Hawaiian Music in the Desert

In the heart of the Nevada desert, a unique cultural bridge connects the aloha spirit of Hawaii with the bustling city of Las Vegas, thanks to the Hall of Fame Broadcaster, better known as Island Emory. This remarkable figure has not only become a staple in the Las Vegas radio scene but has also played a pivotal role in bringing Hawaiian music and culture to a broader audience. As the host and creator of the Little Grass Shack radio show, Emory's journey from Hau’ula, Hawaii, to becoming a celebrated personality in Las Vegas is a testament to his passion and dedication to his roots.

Born into a military family, Emory's early life was marked by constant movement, attending thirteen different schools before graduating from Wagner High School. This nomadic lifestyle, however, did not deter him from holding onto his Hawaiian heritage. Instead, it fueled his desire to share it with the world. In 1999, Emory launched the Little Grass Shack on 91.5 KUNV, a show that would become a cornerstone of Hawaiian music in Las Vegas. Featuring classics from legends like Gabi Pahinui, Don Ho, and Ledward Kaapana, and expanding to include Jawaiian music, the show has entertained and educated listeners for over two decades.

Island Emory's Little Grass Shack is more than just a radio program; it's a mission to be the "steward of aloha," creating a sense of Ohana among listeners, whether they've been tuning in for 20 years or 20 minutes. With segments like “WTF What The Fact” and “Topics From The Tropics,” Emory brings a slice of Hawaiian life to the desert, fostering a unique cultural exchange.

Beyond the airwaves, Emory has made significant contributions as the executive producer at API Media Group since 2013, producing engaging video segments titled "On the 9." His efforts were recognized in 2022 when he was inducted into the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honor highlighting his more than two decades of dedication to promoting Hawaiian music and culture in Las Vegas.

Emory's influence extends beyond traditional media; he has embraced the digital age, streaming Hawaiian music 24/7 on www.LGSVegas.com and www.islandemory.com. This ensures that the soothing sounds of the islands are accessible worldwide, anytime, further cementing his role as a key figure in the global Hawaiian music scene.

Island Emory's story is one of passion, perseverance, and cultural preservation.

From a wandering military brat to a celebrated cultural ambassador, Dr. Island Emory has built an indelible bridge between Hawaii and Las Vegas, proving that even in the most unlikely places, the spirit of aloha can thrive and unite communities. As we celebrate his achievements and contributions, it's clear that Island Emory's legacy will resonate for generations to come, a beacon of Hawaiian culture in the neon-lit landscape of Las Vegas.