AWOLNATION and Makua Release New Single “Catch a Wave”

In what’s shaping up to be one of 2026’s standout collaborations, “Catch A Wave” brings together two artists who’ve already built their own distinct lanes: Aaron Bruno — the multi-platinum force behind AWOLNATION — and Makua, the Big Wave World Champion whose rising alt-rock sound mirrors the charge he brings to the ocean. Their connection began through producer and Villains For Good label head Jimmy Messer, and mutual respect quickly grew into a working rhythm. In 2025, Makua joined AWOLNATION on the “The Phantom Five Tour” across North America and Europe, where the two discovered an easy, unforced chemistry — on stage, backstage, and everywhere in between.

Messer and Bruno have a long creative history, having built AWOLNATION’s debut, Megalithic Symphony, together — the album that went multi-platinum and produced the breakout hit “Sail.” With Messer now helping steer Makua’s next chapter, the timing to bring these two worlds together finally aligned. “Catch A Wave” is the natural next step for two artists whose connection proved itself long before they ever stepped into the studio.

Bruno comments:

“I wrote the song about a fellow surfer passing away in the water. It never felt appropriate to release on my own. Then I met Makua, and given the big wave champion that he is, the timing felt right.”

Makua adds:

“Music gives us a way to bring back the memories of our friends who have passed and help carry their legacies forward. The song is a way to make sure they are not forgotten.”

For Makua, the song carries profound emotional weight. The accompanying video pays tribute to what he calls the “Wave Warriors” — surfers who have passed away.

Makua Tour Dates:

02/26 – Las Vegas, NV – #Happens Alternative Radio Conference
02/27 – San Luis Obispo, CA – SLO Brew Rocks**
02/28 – Stateline, NV – Harrah’s Lake Tahoe – South Shore Room**
03/01 – Menlo, CA – The Guild Theatre**
03/04 – Chico, CA – The Big Room at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.**
03/05 – Medford, OR – Holly Theatre**
03/06 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theater**
03/07 – Bellingham, WA – Wild Buffalo**
03/08 – Tacoma, WA – Spanish Ballroom at the Elks Temple**
03/11 – Park City, UT – The Maquis Park City**
03/12 – Teton Village, WY – Mangy Moose**
03/13 – Fort Collins, CO – Aggie Theatre**
06/12 – Redmond, OR – Reggae Rise Up
6/20 – Virginia Beach, VA – Point Break Festival
= **Makua Supporting G.Love & The Special Sauce