Jason Momoa is stepping into a whole new spotlight, and it’s not on a film set. The Chief of War star is fully embracing his musical side, and his latest live performance proves this isn’t just a hobby. It’s a full-on vibe.
At 46, Jason Momoa is leaning into something raw, loud, and refreshingly unpolished: performing live with his band, ÖOF TATATÁ. And judging by his recent appearance at Blue Note Hawaii, he’s not holding back.
A St. Patrick’s Day Performance With Serious Energy
Momoa gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at the band’s March 17 gig, and the atmosphere was electric. Dressed in festive St. Patrick’s Day beads, he joined bandmates Mike Hayes and Kenny Dale under moody lighting, delivering a performance that felt intimate yet high-energy.
“Mahalo nui loa for all the Aloha at Blue Note Hawai'i,” Momoa shared on Instagram. “Nothing like playing in Hawai‘i, surrounded by ohana & music. Grateful for everyone who came out and celebrated St. Patrick’s Day.” The venue, the crowd, and the cultural backdrop all added to a deeply personal experience for the Hawaii-born star.
Jason Momoa’s connection to Hawaii runs deep. Born in Honolulu and raised in Norwalk, Iowa, he has always maintained strong ties to the islands. His mother, Coni Lemke, is a photographer of German, Irish, and Native American descent, while his father, Joseph Momoa, is of Native Hawaiian heritage. This background has influenced much of his work, including his directorial debut Road to Palmyra and his upcoming series Chief of War, which explores the colonization of Hawaii. Performing at Blue Note Hawaii, a legendary jazz venue on the island of Oahu, was therefore a homecoming in more ways than one.
A Soft Moment With Adria Arjona Steals Attention
Among the performance snapshots, one image stood out. Adria Arjona, 33, was seen smiling as she wrapped Momoa in a hug backstage. Shirtless and still buzzing from the stage, Momoa returned the embrace, his signature forearm tattoo on full display. The couple, who have been publicly linked since May 2024, looked completely at ease, offering a rare, candid glimpse into their relationship. It was understated, affectionate, and very real.
Adria Arjona is an accomplished actress in her own right, known for roles in Good Omens, Pacific Rim: Uprising, and the upcoming Hit Man (2024) directed by Richard Linklater. Her relationship with Momoa has been a subject of media fascination since they were first spotted together at a Los Angeles Lakers game. Since then, the pair have made joint appearances at red-carpet events, including the SNL50 red carpet, where they made a dazzling debut. Arjona has also been seen riding on Momoa’s motorcycle, a hobby he describes as “another adventure with mi amor”. Their chemistry is palpable, and this backstage hug at Blue Note Hawaii only reinforces the genuine bond they share.
Why Performing Live Feels Different for Momoa
Despite years in front of the camera, Momoa admits that live music pushes him in a way acting never has. “It gives me an opportunity to have two hours to really be scared,” he said. “It is kind of nice being scared and to just entertain people that way. It's been fun to experience that.” That fear isn’t something he avoids—it’s something he actively seeks out. Without retakes or edits, every moment on stage is immediate and exposed. “Being with a live audience, it's not my background,” Momoa explained. “It's rejuvenating. You get that energy back from fans.”
He contrasted it with film work, where projects can take years to reach audiences. “When you're acting, you shoot something, it's good right then, and you don't see it for two years. This has that instant gratification of being there with everybody.” This perspective sheds light on why Momoa has been pursuing live performance more actively in recent years. His acting career began with a small role in Baywatch Hawaii, followed by a breakout performance as Khal Drogo in Game of Thrones. He then went on to become the iconic Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe, a role that brought him global fame. Yet despite these monumental achievements, Momoa still craves the visceral energy of a live crowd.
In a world where much of entertainment is carefully produced and edited, going live is a testament to an artist’s courage and authenticity. For Momoa, it’s also a way to stay connected to his roots in music and performance. He has been known to play guitar and drums for years, often jamming with friends on set or during downtime. His band ÖOF TATATÁ is not a mere side project; it is a serious creative outlet that allows him to express himself in ways that acting sometimes cannot.
Inside ÖOF TATATÁ: More Than Just a Side Project
ÖOF TATATÁ is rooted in real friendships and years of shared music. Momoa plays bass guitar, while Mike Hayes leads on vocals and guitar, and Kenny Dale handles drums. The band’s name translates to “Oof, Almost” in Māori, reflecting both humor and humility. “These are my best friends,” Momoa said. “They've been playing for the last 20 years, and they actually taught me how to play guitar and how to play drums.”
The band’s sound blends elements of rock, blues, and Hawaiian influences, creating a unique auditory experience. They have performed at various venues across the United States, including the iconic Whisky a Go Go in Los Angeles and the Blue Note in New York City. Each performance is a celebration of friendship and musical exploration. Mike Hayes, a seasoned musician, has been a mentor to Momoa, helping him hone his skills on stage. Kenny Dale provides a solid rhythmic foundation, allowing Momoa to explore his bass lines with confidence.
ÖOF TATATÁ has also released a few original songs, including “Power,” which debuted on streaming services in 2023. The song features driving bass lines and emotive lyrics, showcasing Momoa’s growth as a musician. Upcoming singles and live albums are in the works, according to sources close to the band. This is not just a fleeting hobby; it is a passion project that Momoa hopes to develop further in the coming years.
The band’s name, derived from Māori, reflects Momoa’s respect for Polynesian cultures. The phrase “Oof, Almost” is often used in a humorous context, indicating a near miss or a playful slip. It perfectly encapsulates the band’s ethos: taking music seriously but not themselves too seriously. This playful, humble approach has endeared them to audiences who appreciate both the artistry and the authenticity.
Jason Momoa’s involvement in music also ties into his broader work as an activist and cultural ambassador. He has been a vocal advocate for environmental issues, particularly the protection of oceans and indigenous rights. His music often carries themes of connection to nature, heritage, and community. Performing at Blue Note Hawaii was not just a gig; it was a statement of belonging and pride in his Hawaiian roots.
For fans, seeing Momoa on stage with his band is a thrilling departure from his larger-than-life screen personas. He is no longer just Aquaman or Khal Drogo; he is a real person sharing a raw, human moment. That authenticity is what makes his musical endeavors so compelling. As he continues to balance acting with music, one thing is clear: Jason Momoa is a multi-faceted artist who refuses to be boxed into one identity.
The response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media is abuzz with clips from his performances, many highlighting his infectious energy and rapport with the audience. At Blue Note Hawaii, the crowd included both longtime fans and locals who know Momoa as “one of their own.” The intimacy of the venue allowed for a unique exchange that larger arenas cannot replicate.
Looking ahead, Momoa has hinted at more live dates for ÖOF TATATÁ in 2025 and beyond. With his acting schedule, including the upcoming sequel to Aquaman and the series Chief of War, it remains to be seen how much time he can dedicate to touring. But for now, he is savoring every moment on stage, from the pre-show jitters to the post-show hugs with loved ones like Adria Arjona.
In a world where celebrity often feels curated and distant, Jason Momoa’s band moment alongside Adria Arjona reminds us of the power of genuine connection. Whether on screen or on stage, he continues to captivate audiences with his passion, vulnerability, and unyielding commitment to living life on his own terms.
Source: MSN News