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MAKAIO "The MAK of STEEL" is a 5-star-rated one-man steel drum band, blends diverse musical influences from pop, reggae, jazz, rock, and classical to create an uplifting, unique sound. Born into a musical family and exposed to various styles from a young age, MAKAIO now hails from Florida’s east coast, where he fell in love with the steel drum. His live performances feature dynamic steel drum playing with soulful vocals, creating a full-band experience. A classically trained honors graduate in vocal performance from DePaul University, MAKAIO’s musical journey has taken him across the world, with performances in the USA, China, and England. His professional training includes studying at renowned institutions like the British American Drama Academy (BADA) in Oxford under Sir Benjamin Kingsley, and DePaul University’s School of Music, where he refined his vocal and instrumental skills. MAKAIO has also worked with notable instructors like Anne Perillo, Elizabeth Gottlieb, and Larry Moran. From performing with the National Broadway Touring Company of Evita at age 7 to becoming a go-to performer for major brands like Honda and Trader Joe’s, MAKAIO's career reflects his versatility. His upbeat and inviting music is guided by thoughtful lyrics, offering audiences a captivating mix of genres, theatricality, and rhythm. Whether performing his original music or covers, MAKAIO’s shows are immersive, leaving lasting impressions on audiences worldwide​. His music styles include:
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Caribbean Music
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Hawaiian Music
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Steel Drum Performances
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Soul Music
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Beach Music
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World Music​​​
VIDEO SAMPLES
You are Top Notch!
Hi MAKAIO,
A short note to thank you for providing the entertainment for us this weekend. You are top notch. All the guest made comments on how impressed they were with your music and how you managed to transport them to the Caribbean islands. Most importantly we can't express how grateful we are for your gentle handling of the kids; allowing them to experience playing the steel drum and sing along with you was PRICELESS. This is definitely an experience that will stay with all who attended the party. But, most importantly will be forged into growing up summer memories for the children. Thanks again for being professional and having a true love for what you do.
Rick and Laura
You made our 10th wedding anniversary party a great success!
Thank you, thank you! You made our 10th wedding anniversary party a great success!!! We loved the way you led the band from start to finish. The singing was amazing and the steel drum was total class. You transported us back to the Caribbean islands. We love the way you were the master of ceremony and kept the whole event focused and cohesive. There were no awkward gaps. Every one enjoyed the "limbo" dance and laughed with glee as each person was eliminated. The kids really had the best time sliding and crawling under the limbo stick. Thank you for the encouraging words you spoke to us to enjoy the marriage and continue to make God the center of our lives. You led the event with a joyful and happy energy. It was so good to celebrate with you and to talk with you. Thank you so much!
Rosalind H.