Get to know Larry

Lightning Larry Dupio: A Force in Blues and Rock

From sunlit shores to turbulent seas, Lightning Larry Dupio’s journey began on Oahu, where endless summer days of surfing 

and freedom were cut short by a draft notice for the Vietnam War.  Shortly after his graduation from Farrington High School, 

Larry enlisted in the Navy in 1971.  Throughout every trial since, his passion for music became his true north.

Deeply inspired by legends like Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Roy Buchanan, and Jimi Hendrix, Larry has crafted a sound all his own—a style as electrifying as his name suggests.  A two-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award winner, Larry won Hawaii’s hearts and "Rock Album of the Year" with his genre-defining work. His albums Lightning Strikes Hilo (2018) and Love and Lightning (2020) showcase his undeniable talent and were embraced by fans and critics alike.

Larry’s stage presence has been amplified by incredible collaborations with some of music’s biggest names, including 

Charlie Musselwhite, Johnnie Johnson, Canned Heat, John Mayall, Ford Brothers, and more.  He’s also shared the stage 

with icons like Ziggy Marley, Jimmy Cliff, and Mick Fleetwood, making waves in Hawai'i’s music scene and beyond.

Larry’s career reached further heights during his ten years in the Pacific Northwest, where he became a beloved figure in 

Portland’s prestigious ‘Rose City’ music circuit. There, he took home the title of “King of the Blues” from Guitar Center 

and was honored as a top nominee for “Best Guitar Player” by the Cascade Blues Association.

With six albums to his name—Local Boy Larry Dupio, All Fired Up, Lightning Larry Dupio, Elima, Lightning Strikes Hilo, 

and Love and Lightning—his discography has earned Grammy attention, with four of his works making it onto the first ballot.

Now back in Hawai'i, Lightning Larry Dupio continues his musical journey, forever inspired by the island’s volcanic spirit.

“My volcanic island home inspires me to write music that flows like liquid lightning.” – Lightning Larry Dupio

IMUA!