Nalani “Lani” Quintello
Coming from a military background, Nalani Quintello began her music career at a young age, performing for seniors in her hometown of Orange Park, Florida. Witnessing firsthand the uplifting power of music and its ability to brighten lives, she felt inspired to make it her lifelong path. Little did she know that her journey would one day lead her to serve as a talented musical ambassador for the United States, blending her love for music with her commitment to service.
Born in Germany, Nalani moved to Florida with her family at age eight. “I was fortunate to grow up in a multicultural environment, which helped me develop cultural competence early on—a skill that has served me well in the military,” she reflects.
Guided by her father, a US Army veteran, Nalani embarked on a remarkable musical journey. She began performing at a variety of venues, winning numerous regional singing contests, and learning guitar. Her talents took her to county fairs and the renowned Suwannee River Jam at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, where she won the Country Showdown—the nation’s largest and oldest country music competition. Nalani went on to win the Florida Country Showdown and proudly represented Florida at the Southeastern Regional Texaco Country Showdown. Beyond performing, she’s also an accomplished songwriter, adding yet another layer to her artistic achievements.
Nalani stepped into the national spotlight as a contestant on Season 14 of American Idol. As she progressed to the Top 48, an incredible opportunity with the US Air Force Premier Rock Band presented itself—one she couldn’t pass up! Nalani announced her withdrawal from American Idol, packed her bags, and embarked on eight intense weeks of basic military training before stepping into her dream role with the Air Force. At just 19, she became the youngest technical sergeant in the Air Force, quickly proving herself as a dedicated Airman. Now a seasoned national and international ambassador, she’s not only a skilled performer but also trained to expertly handle, disassemble, and reassemble an M4 Carbine.
Nalani has traveled to several countries, including Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Germany, performing at international functions and bringing a “touch of home” to troops stationed abroad.
Nalani’s musical influences are Kelly Clarkson, Shania Twain, and Chris Stapleton. This talented beauty’s voice has been described by some as having a very clear, transparent vocal for today’s mainstream country music, while incorporating a Southern country twang with a blended pop/rock edge.
Nalani earned her Associate Degree from the Community College of the Air Force in 2016 and went on to complete her bachelor’s in Music Business from Berklee College of Music, all while traveling the world and making friends for the USA. Committed to personal growth, she recently achieved her Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) at The Citadel.
The same calling to connect people through music continues today through Lani Lei Band. After her military chapter, Nalani relocated to Charleston, SC and founded Lani Lei Band with fellow Air Force veteran and musical director Jonathan McPherson. A veteran-owned boutique live music company based in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Lani Lei Band performs as a duo, trio, or full band for weddings, corporate events, and community concerts throughout the Lowcountry and more!
Career Highlights
- Sang the National Anthem at the 2024 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series — the NHL’s third most attended event ever, with 80,000 spectators, aired on ABC, ESPN+, Sportsnet, and TVA Sports.
- Performed with country music star Drake White on Maryland Public Television to honor military veterans in 2016.
- Co-wrote the hit song “American Airman,” highlighting every aspect of what it means to serve as an American Airman in the US military. The song went viral, garnering over 7 million views and winning first place in the Air Force media contest for “Outstanding Original Pop Song.”
- Headlined the half-time entertainment for the New York Giants vs. Patriots NFL game, performing “American Airman” for 75,000 people in 2015.
- Deployed to the Middle East in 2016 for Operations Inherent Resolve and Resolute Support, serving fellow troops, allies, foreign diplomats, and children at international schools, military bases, and American Embassies.
- Performed with country icon Jessie James Decker at the National Christmas Tree Lighting in 2019.
- Serves as Air Force Wounded Warrior Program Ambassador, sharing her testimony of resilience and recovery through public speaking engagements, online and in-person.
