Ukulele superstar Jake Shimabukuro will be previewing selections from Travels, his forthcoming studio album, on his global tour -- which kicks off in August and continues into 2016 with tour dates across the country, as well as the U.K. and Japan.  

Set for release October 9, Travels casts the spotlight on Jake’s diverse artistry, from lilting self-penned compositions, to modern interpretations of beloved Hawaiian standards.  As a special treat, the disc also includes a memorable pair of pop nuggets from the 70s:  A sweet rendition of “I’ll Be There” by the Jackson 5, and a witty, Hawaii-meets-East L.A., take on “Low Rider” by War (the latter featuring rare vocals by Jake).  Travels is available for pre-order on iTunes, Amazon and Mountain Apple Company.

Last month, Jake returned home to Honolulu to showcase his classical chops in the world premiere of Campanella, the first-ever concerto written for the ukulele – elevating the instrument to that of a concert violin or piano.  Nicknamed Concerto for Jake, the piece was composed by Dr. Byron Yasui for the ukulele icon to perform with the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra.  

“It was a great moment for the ukulele, because it was the first time that the ukulele was presented as a classical instrument,” says Jake.  “It was, by far, the most difficult piece of music I have ever performed.”