Yolo Ono

Introduction

Yolo Ono is a Honolulu-based band consisting of core members Nikki Son Nakamura (lead vocals and guitar), Ajita Gabbard (lead guitar and vocals), and Arri Yoshina Nguyen (bass and fiddle), recording and performing at times with various guest musicians. Self-described as “if Green Day and the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s had a baby” and “genre fluid,” Nakamura’s lyrics and the band’s instrumentals combine to create Yolo Ono’s folk, pop, punk, rock, and metal influenced sounds. Their music and work honors life growing up in Hawai`i, Asian American experiences, friendship, and local community. Their EP, Manic Lullaby, released in three acts, delves into societal and social topics and messages, with act three releases occurring in 2026.

Yolo Ono was officially founded in 2024, with each member contributing their lifelong creative and musical experiences. The band frequents local Hawaiian venues in O`ahu such as Proof Social Club, Irish Rose Saloon, Harbors Vintage Beretania, and more.

The Interviews

Eric Hung and Mandi Magnuson-Hung interviewed the three core members of Yolo Ono during a trip to Honolulu in late March-early April, 2026. We found the band through reading performance schedules of Honolulu venues.  After enjoying the music we listened to on Bandcamp, we sent an email to the band’s address and started a conversation with Nikki Nakamura.  On March 30, 2026, we met Nikki at Proof Social Club, an intimate, chill and inclusive bar with a small stage that gave off good vibes.  It’s no wonder that Yolo Ono loves performing there.  After a brief conversation, Nikki walked us over to their nearby rehearsal space, where Arri met us.  Unfortunately, Ajita was not feeling well that day and could not join us.  Eric and Mandi met up with Ajita at Hub, a coworking space in Honolulu, a few days later.  In these interviews, the core members of Yolo Ono discussed not just the band’s origins and artistic processes, but also talked a lot about the vibrant but also challenging indie rock scene in Honolulu.