Big Wave world champion continues musical rise with one of 2026’s standout collaborations
MAKUA is heading to Australia and is set to perform at Sessions Surf Festival on the Gold Coast on 23 May 2026 + more to be announced
Big Wave world champion Makua Rothman has released his new single Catch A Wave, a powerful collaboration with multi-platinum alternative act AWOLNATION that is already gaining global traction.
A World Surf League title holder, Rothman built his reputation charging some of the most dangerous waves on the planet. But behind the accolades lies a journey marked by personal struggles that once saw him lose his way before rebuilding his life through surfing, music and discipline.
Now emerging as a powerful voice beyond the surf world, the North Shore of Oahu native channels those experiences into music that blends alternative rock and surf punk. His songs draw heavily from life growing up on Hawaii’s North Shore and the tight-knit surf community that shaped him.
His latest release, Catch A Wave, features Aaron Bruno, frontman of AWOLNATION and the voice behind the multi-platinum hit Sail, with the collaboration naturally progressing from creative partnership and into the studio.
At its core, the track is grounded in loss, brotherhood and life in the water, carrying an emotional weight that reflects Rothman’s journey both as an athlete and an artist.
“Music gives us a way to bring back the memories of our friends who have passed and help carry their legacies forward,” Rothman says. “The song is a way to make sure they are not forgotten.”
Working alongside multi-platinum producer Jimmy Messer, whose credits include Madonna, Miley Cyrus and Kelly Clarkson, Rothman has been building momentum as an artist, touring with acts such as AWOLNATION and Sublime.
Australia is a natural stop, with Rothman planning upcoming tour dates. He will kick things off on the Gold Coast at Sessions Surf Festival 2026, with additional dates to be announced. He carries strong recognition among surf audiences, while his crossover into music is connecting with a broader cultural audience across sport, music and lifestyle.
With a new album expected this year, his upcoming visit will introduce Australian audiences to the next chapter of that journey.
Available now on all streaming platforms
