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All the way from the beautiful shores of Hawai‘i, Royce Fisherman is making waves from coast to coast. Now based in New York, Fisherman brings the aloha spirit to the East Coast with his pop sound infused with the essence of home. As someone from the same island, I had the privilege of sitting down with Royce to talk about his musical journey, the influence of Hawai‘i on his artistry, and his recommendations for must-visit spots.

OnesToWatch: Who is Royce Fisherman?

Royce Fisherman: I’m an artist from Hawai'i. I feel like I’m a creative at heart. I just like to make things, and music happens to be one of them. But I’m really into being part of what my friends are doing—whether that’s art, video, or fashion. I just love to create.

How did you get into making music?

I’ve been making music for about six years now. I got into it during my sophomore year of high school when my friends wanted to form a rap group. We were like the Asian Migos of our high school. We got clowned for it, but it was fun to make it all on our laptop. We’d record in the janitor’s closet. A year later, I wanted to take it more seriously. My parents wanted me to go to college, so I decided to major in music business. That’s when I knew I wanted to pursue music seriously.

How has that degree shaped how you promote your music?

I’ve been privileged to meet so many like-minded people while studying. Coming from Hawai'i, it’s hard to find those connections, especially when I was graduating. The music scene wasn’t where it is today. Studying and doing industry internships opened my mind to how music is both art and business. It’s been about finding that balance—being an artist and a businessperson.

How has growing up in Hawai'i influenced your music?

When I started, I wanted to be like my favorite artists, so my early music mimicked mainland artists. Recently, I’ve been influenced by Hawai'i artists like Myron and Brock from BB, who rep where they’re from with pride. They mention local brands, restaurants, and places, and that’s influenced me. Now, I’m blending the New York sound I’ve developed over the past four years with my Hawai'i experiences. It’s a unique perspective.

I remember seeing "Billabong Babe" pop up. I loved it. Seeing Hawai'i references like Don Quijote was great.

I’m so happy that song got traction. Mentioning my friends and local places made me more confident. Even if people don’t know the references, I hope they’re interested enough to look them up and learn about our culture.

Did the success of "Billabong Babe" inspire you to put out more music?

Definitely. Some people say they don’t need validation, but for me, seeing that there’s a market for Hawai'i’s sound was special. It helped me show my parents it’s not just a hobby—it’s something I can make work. It also inspired others here, showing it’s possible to get noticed despite Hawai'i’s physical location. The feedback on visuals and the cultural strength we’re displaying is motivating.

You recently collaborated with 8RO8. How was that?

I’ve been a fan of Myron since high school. The collab with Myron was special because I got to know him as a person, not just as an artist. It wasn’t just sending beats back and forth—it felt genuine.

What inspired the track?

I wrote it when I was in college, missing Hawai'i. Moving away and realizing how much I missed the beaches, food, and sun was a culture shock. That’s where the song came from—missing home.

What’s next for you?

I just dropped a song called "Locals” and we're also dropping the music video shortly after. Right now I'm back home in Hawaii, but I'm planning to move up to New York soon and will continue my music journey there.

Who are your musical inspirations?

Aminé is a big one. Sonically and aesthetically, his feel-good music aligns with mine. I’m also inspired by Hawai'i’s music scene. I have a playlist of friends’ music that I love.

Who are your ones to watch?

Myron’s crew, Boto Bangaz, and Liliko’i Blondie. Also, Miles (O2 Yuto), who’s Hawai'i-born and raised. He blends his Asian and Black background into his music, creating a unique perspective.

Just check out Hawai'i artists. The scene here is so young and exciting. People are figuring out their sounds and stories—it’s a creative underdog stage where everyone has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

That’s amazing. Lastly, if you were to recommend a place on Oahu for fans to check out, what would it be?

There’s a beautiful beach called Ala Wai—just kidding. Seriously, though, check out Jack’s in Aina Haina. It’s classic Hawai'i comfort food. It reminds me of hanging out at my grandparents’ house. Very homey, very local.