Humu Humu Nuku Nuku Apua A Song

Okay, let's talk about something that's been weighing heavily on my mind. It's a song. A song about a fish.

And not just *any* fish. It's about the Humu Humu Nuku Nuku Apua A. You know, the Hawaiian triggerfish?

The Song Dilemma

Here's my unpopular opinion. I kind of… don't love the song about it. There. I said it.

I know, I know. It's practically a Hawaiian institution. It's catchy. Kids love it.

But, and this is a big "but," is it actually good? Or is it just… relentlessly cheerful?

Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the cultural aspect. Learning about the state fish of Hawaii is important. But does it need to be accompanied by a song that drills itself into your brain like a particularly enthusiastic dentist?

Catchy vs. Annoying: A Fine Line

We all know the line between catchy and annoying is thinner than a strand of dental floss. And for me, the Humu Humu Nuku Nuku Apua A song? It's straddling that line with alarming dexterity.

Think about it. How many times have you heard it and not had it stuck in your head for the next three days? Exactly.

It’s like glitter. Fun at first, then everywhere. You find it months later in places you didn't even know existed. That's this song.

The "Fun for Kids" Argument

I hear you shouting, “But it’s for kids!” And yes, children are often drawn to repetitive melodies and silly lyrics.

But are we really setting them up for a lifetime of musical appreciation with this particular ditty? Shouldn’t we expose them to Bach? Or, I don't know, *anything* else?

Maybe I’m being harsh. But I stand by my point. There are other, less… insistent ways to teach kids about Hawaiian fish.

The Name Itself: A Tongue Twister's Dream (or Nightmare)

Let's not even get started on the name. Humu Humu Nuku Nuku Apua A. Try saying that five times fast. I dare you.

It's a linguistic workout. A test of your pronunciation skills. A recipe for a sore tongue. All for a fish song.

While I applaud the creativity behind the name, I can't help but wonder if it was intentionally designed to be as difficult as possible. Perhaps a prank played by ancient Hawaiian gods of humor?

Alternatives Exist (Probably)

Look, I'm not saying we should ban the song. This isn't a call to arms. It’s just a plea.

A plea for other, equally informative, and less earworm-inducing songs about Hawaiian wildlife. Surely, they exist… right?

Maybe we can commission a new generation of Hawaiian musicians to create a humu humu-themed masterpiece. One that doesn't make me want to hide under a rock. I’m sure Israel Kamakawiwoʻole could’ve done a great version.

So, there you have it. My controversial take on the Humu Humu Nuku Nuku Apua A song. Judge me if you will. But deep down, I suspect some of you secretly agree.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to find a way to get this darn tune out of my head.