James Katina: Missionaries and Music

By Vanessa Wolf

The Katinas, a contemporary Christian music group, starts their Hawaii concert tour at the MACC this Thursday, December 6.

The five brothers are originally from American Samoa, and moved to Washington, after the death of their mother in 1988. The musicians – Joe, James, John, Sam and Jesse Katina – rose to fame when  their debut album Katina Boyz sold 120,000 copies in 1991.

James Katina, bass guitar player and vocalist, took a little time out of his schedule to answer some of our questions.

Maui Now:  You’re originally from American Samoa: do you get back there much?

James Katina: We try to make it out there, once a year. In addition to seeing our family, we do a lot of missionary work there.

MN: What can we expect at the show Thursday?

JK: A great night of Christmas music, along with original songs from the “Collage” CD. We will also do one song from our new album “Love Chapter,” a song called “I Will Be Here,” and a few other surprises.

MN: What’s your favorite song of all time?

JK: That’s a tough one, but I’m going to have to say “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5.

MN: If I gave you an elephant, where would you hide it?

JK: In my wife’s shoe collection!

MN:   If you weren’t a musician for a living, what do you think you might be doing now?

JK: Working as a Secret Service Agent: never a dull moment in that line of work. There’s just something about wearing an ear piece, shades and a black suit.

MN: Like the Jackson 5, you are a family band comprised of five brothers. Which one of you is the best looking?

JK: I’d go with whoever my wife says. Ha!

MN: Loco moco, halo halo, or Spam musubi?

JK: Gotta go with the healthiest choice, Spam musubi.

The Katina’s latest album, Collage is their most collaborative record to date. They will also perform hits from their Christmas project, Sounds of Christmas. Jeremy Passion will open the evening and everyone is invited  to share in their message of hope for the holiday season.

The all-ages show starts at 7:30 p.m. in the Castle Theater. Tickets are $15, $20, and $30.