Stories

Great Ukes: Alvin Keech May or May Not Have Invented the Banjo Uke, but He Certainly Helped Popularize It

Follow a fascinating journey to uncover the story of a hardworking, talented, and complex man whose efforts helped popularize the ukulele around the world

Merchants of Waikiki–Who Really Made Summers Brothers Ukuleles?

Even though a significant number of beautiful vintage ukuleles bear their names, these brothers never actually built a single instrument.

Roundup: Comparing the Sonic Quality and Playability of 5 Vintage Baritone Ukes

Sandor Nagyszalanczy conducts a face-off of five instruments, comparing not only their sonic qualities, but their construction and playability as well.

Jake Shimabukuro Joins Forces with Mick Fleetwood for Sensational Blues Outing

It’s always a treat to catch up with ukulele superstar Jake Shimabukuro.

Dan Scanlan Has Spent a Lifetime Fighting Injustice and Uniting Communities Through Ukuleles

You could call him a ukulele jack-of-all-trades—an accomplished songwriter, educator, author, luthier, and wandering minstrel.

The SS Badger Unites Ukesters Across Lake Michigan

Twenty ukulele enthusiasts sang and strummed for four solid hours across 62 miles of water.

The Simple Elegance of Yoshiro Naoki’s Jewelry-Inspired Naturel Ukuleles

Naoki taps into his experience with precious metals and gems to craft exquisite ukuleles with a unique style.

Watch the Replay: Jim Beloff Stories and Songs from “The Daily Ukulele: Another Year”

We went live with Jumpin Jim Beloff for music, conversation, and tips on playing a few choice tunes from the The Daily Ukulele: Another Year. Enjoy the replay here.

Ginger Johnson’s Deep Baritone Sound is a Perfect Fit in the Hula Honeys

Ginger Johnson has played baritone ukulele in the award-winning Hula Honeys duo with Robyn Kneubuhl for some 20 years.

Great Ukes: The History of Dobro Resonator Ukuleles and their ‘National’ Origins

When the Dopyera brothers left their Austro-Hungarian homeland and emigrated to the United States in 1908, little did they know what an unpredictable and fascinating journey their lives would take