Jake Shimabukuro Spreads Holiday Cheer with “All I Want For Christmas Is You” Cover

Artwork by Kurt Stephens Photography

Internationally acclaimed ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro is adding a touch of musical magic to the holiday season with his latest single, “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” The musician collaborated with singer Justin Kawika Young, bassist Jackson Waldhoff and drummer Shawn Pimental to deliver a refreshing twist to Mariah Carey’s iconic holiday classic.

Shimabukuro, currently on tour for his most personal album to date, Grateful, expressed his excitement about the holiday release. “The holidays are so special, and recording a rendition of the iconic ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ was so much fun,” he said. “Justin Kawika Young’s voice is absolutely brilliant, and he truly adds his own spin on this holiday classic. I’m such a fan of his artistry. I hope this track helps to bring tons of holiday cheer to people everywhere.”

Grateful as a whole showcases Shimabukuro’s collaborative spirit and features renowned artists such as Henry Kapono, Pure Heart, Raiatea Helm, Brother Noland, Kimié Miner, and many more. The album is not only a musical journey but also a testament to Shimabukuro’s diverse influences and innovative approach to the ukulele.

A notable aspect of Grateful is its commitment to giving back. A portion of the album proceeds will be dedicated to the Maui Strong Fund, supporting initiatives that positively impact the community.

Fans and music enthusiasts can witness the magic of Shimabukuro’s live performance during his Christmas In Hawai’i Tour (which begins tonight, Dec. 1 and runs through Dec. 21) for which he expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thank you for supporting the ARTS!!!” See full dates below.

Listen to Shimabukuro’s rendition of “All I Want for Christmas is You” below.

Christmas In Hawai’i Tour Dates

Dec 1, 2023 – Yavapai College Performing Arts Center – Prescott, AZ

Dec 2, 2023 – Poway Center For the Performing Arts – Poway, CA

Dec 3, 2023 – The Barclay – Irvine, CA

Dec 5, 2023 – Dakota – Minneapolis, MN

Dec 6, 2023 – Stoughton Opera House – Stoughton, WI

Dec 7, 2023 – North Shore Center for the Performing Arts – Skokie, IL

Dec 8, 2023 – University of Michigan / Hill Auditorium – Ann Arbor, MI

Dec 9, 2023 – The Toby – Indianapolis, IN

Dec 10, 2023 – Ludlow Garage – Cincinnati, OH

Dec 12, 2023 – City Winery – St Louis, MO

Dec 13, 2023 – Bomhard Theater / Kentucky Performing Arts – Louisville, KY

Dec 14, 2023 – Columbia State Community College/Cherry Theater – Columbia, TN

Dec 16, 2023 – Uptown Theatre Napa – Napa, CA

Dec 17, 2023 – Sunset Center – Carmel, CA

Dec 18, 2023 – Crest Theatre – Sacramento, CA

Dec 19, 2023 – Harold Miossi Hall – Performing Arts Center – San Luis Obispo, CA

Dec 20, 2023 – Gallo Center for the Arts – Modesto, CA

Dec 21, 2023 – Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center – Santa Clarita, CA