Originally from Hawaii, Ronnie Tsunami & The WaveRiders were founded in 2005 by Ronnie Tsunami and Joanna “Tropical Lady”, two island-hearted performers with a mission bigger than music. From the very beginning, the band was created to give back and share aloha — to lift up local communities, support important causes, and remind people everywhere that no matter how big life’s waves get, you can always learn to ride them.
Everyone faces tsunamis in life — challenges, hardships, and overwhelming moments that threaten to knock us down. Instead of letting those waves drown us, Ronnie and Joanna wanted to bring people hope, joy, and strength through music. That vision grew into a movement of compassion, entertainment, and positive impact that continues to shape everything the band does today.
Over the years, Ronnie Tsunami & The WaveRiders have helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, the Alzheimer’s Society, and many more.


Their commitment to service is matched only by their incredible musical talent, which has earned them major recognition nationwide. The band has been honored with:
“Single of the Year” – Hawaii Music Awards
“Best World Music Artist” – Charlotte Music Awards
“Best Country Music Artist” – Charlotte Music Awards
“Top Beach Band in North America” (two years in a row) – Rising Star Awards
Their high-energy island shows have taken them to festivals and events across the country, as well as national appearances on NBC, ABC, and CBS. But it’s their experience — not just their credentials — that truly sets them apart.
The WaveRiders blend the joyful sparkle of steel drums, the warm island rhythm of the ukulele, and the vibrant pulse of trop-rock and Caribbean influences into a sound that instantly transports audiences to paradise. Their performances go far beyond the music, creating a full tropical celebration with hula dancers, line dancing, conga lines, and lively hula and limbo contests that bring everyone into the fun. It’s an immersive “around the islands” experience that turns every event into a memory.
Through every song, every smile, every dance, and every charity they support, the band carries forward their core promise: to always share the aloha.
Aloha is more than a greeting — it’s love, compassion, connection, and the spirit of lifting others up. It’s the heart of who they are.
With Ronnie Tsunami & The WaveRiders, the music is warm, the energy is contagious, the vibes are tropical, and the aloha is always overflowing.
Ride the wave with us — and feel the aloha in every beat.