Milan Bertosa Memorial Fund

Milan came to Hawai‘i in 1988 and co-opened Audio Resources Hawai‘i. Starting off as a small recording studio in the Century Center building near Waikīkī, they soon opened a second location on Young Street, in the same space where Herb Ono’s revered “Sounds of Hawai‘i” studios once operated. Milan later served nine years as the chief studio engineer for Mountain Apple Company before pursuing a freelance career.

Milan is credited as an Engineer, Producer and/or Performer on over 700 albums and thousands of singles and live shows. Although his career and clientele have spanned the globe, he chose to establish himself in Hawai‘i. This was where his engineering mastery contributed to the recordings of many artists including Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole, the Brothers Cazimero, the Ka‘au Crater Boys, Amy Hānaiali‘i Gilliom, Don Ho, Kalapana, Willie K, Hawaiian Style Band, Cecilio & Kapono, Nā Leo Pilimehana, Mānoa DNA, Pacific Harp Project, Teresa Bright, Uluwehi Guerrero, and Aunty Irmgard Farden Aluli – just to name a few. He also recorded archival material for many kumu and hālau as a way to contribute by preserving the cultural treasures of Hawai‘i. Through his work, Milan earned himself accolades, including multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards for excellence on songs and albums that many listeners love and enjoy as their island soundtracks from the late 80’s to the present.

Perhaps Milan’s best-known work is the Hawaiian version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” by Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole. This iconic song has gone on to become a platinum bestseller and the most requested song of Hawai‘i.

Milan appeared to be in great health with nothing to suggest illness, even enjoying the holidays, cooking and celebrating with friends just days before his passing. On New Year’s Eve, Milan suffered a catastrophic heart attack that led to his untimely and unexpected passing.

Milan is survived by his beloved wife, Maya, and his studio cats. Funeral services will be held in Milan’s hometown of Chicago where he will be laid to rest with his family. A Celebration of Life/fundraising concert to honor Milan and to assist with medical/funeral expenses will be held on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at Hawaiian Brian’s in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. More details will be forthcoming.

The shock of his loss will be felt by many, but your prayers, strength, and support for his wife, Maya, during this time is greatly appreciated. Friends of Milan are asking you to show your aloha by donating to the following GO FUND ME account: https://gofund.me/37c9a0e7

COVID-19 impacted so many in the music/entertainment industry, and Milan was no exception. He worked hard to reestablish the significant loss of business and income. 2023 was looking very promising with several projects lined up. Your donations will directly help offset the sudden funeral expenses as well as the significant medical and hospital bills.

We thank you so much for being part of Milan’s life. He loved working with all of his artists and was fiercely protective of them and their work. May his legacy live on through those who have been touched by his engineering skills, love, sense of humor, and enthusiasm for all things music.