A Story That Still Brings Us Together

Some stories never fade. They simply find new ways to be told.

Seeing the beloved Lilo & Stitch return in live action was a powerful reminder of why it resonated with audiences in the first place. For many of us, the original shaped childhood memories and introduced themes that still hold meaning today.

Being part of the musical journey behind this revival felt like stepping into a story that had already touched millions of people. At its heart, the film has always been about family, belonging, and finding your place in the world.

Those themes remain just as powerful today.

One of the most meaningful parts of the experience was working alongside Iam Tongi.

He is one of the most beautiful souls I have ever encountered. The kind of person whose presence immediately changes the energy of a room. Creative, generous, and deeply connected to the spirit of the music.

Collaborating with him was a reminder that the most memorable creative experiences are not just about the work itself. They are about the people who bring that work to life.

A moment I will never forget was traveling to Oahu to record the children’s choir.

One of the moments that will stay with me forever was traveling to Oahu to record the Kamehameha Children’s Choir and Mark Kealiʻi Hoʻomalu.

There was something powerful about being there, surrounded by the culture and spirit that inspired the story in the first place. Hearing those young voices fill the room carried a kind of honesty that only children can bring to music.

In that moment, the meaning of ohana was not just something written in a script. You could feel it in the room.

Another meaningful part of the experience was working alongside Mark Kealiʻi Hoʻomalu, whose voice has been closely connected to Lilo & Stitch from the beginning.

Born and raised in ʻAiea, Oʻahu, his contributions to the original film helped ground the music in the culture and spirit of the islands. Collaborating with someone so closely connected to the music that helped introduce this story to the world brought a real sense of continuity to the experience, and made the moment all the more meaningful.

Opportunities like this rarely happen by accident.

They happen because someone believes in your work and trusts you with something meaningful.

I am deeply grateful to Kaylin Frank for extending the opportunity to help re-produce these iconic songs. Being entrusted with music that has meant so much to so many people is something I will always take seriously.

And getting to be part of a story that continues to bring families together across generations is something I will never forget.