Jake Shimabukuro, the 'ukulele sensation, is right on target with his next CD, "Live," set for a March 8 launch ... at the new Target store in Kapolei. The exclusive deal means that the strummer's new album will be only sold at Hawai'i's newest retailer for 30 days before hitting conventional music outlets April 14.

Expect some in-store promotions, too, like autograph sessions yet to be announced. "Live" was recorded during a variety of performances last year and it's Shimabukuro's first full-length album since his 2006 best-seller, "Gently Weeps." That homage to the George Harrison hit is reborn with a live version in the new album; and ol' nimble fingers does a remarkably refreshing "Thriller" — yep, the Michael Jackson trademark.

"I've always wanted to release a live CD because there's something magical about capturing the energy of the audience during a performance," Shimabukuro said in a statement. "Every cheer and chuckle writes itself into each tune and becomes a part of the arrangement. Every track (there are 17) reveals a different side of the 'ukulele."

We've heard the disc and yes, it pulsates with real energy — sometimes light and bright, sometimes emotionally rousing with a tough edge. He particularly favors the unexpected impromptu between-song chuckles and there are three chat tracks, too.

"Music should bring happiness; the sound of the 'ukulele always makes me smile," he says. "I think the world would be a greater place if everyone played the 'ukulele." May we start with Hawai'i, you think? ...

NAMES 'N FACES: "American Idol" loyalists report there's a second contestant with Island ties. She is Taylor Vaifanua, whose Samoan grandparents are from Hawai'i. She joins Kai Kalama (both have Polynesian heritage) in the quest for stardom. Her dad is Brian Vaifanua, who is Samoa-born and California-raised, and her mom is a Caucasian, which makes Taylor hapa, and she derives her musical talent from her Polynesian roots. ....

The U.S. Airways pilot everyone calls Sully — that would be Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger, whose heroics of landing Flight 1549 in the Hudson River Jan. 15 was called a "miracle" — took wife Lorrie and daughters Kate and Kelly to see "South Pacific" at Lincoln Center, as we itemed here earlier. But there was another local element we just learned about. Islanders Claire and Kuhio Asam also took in the show and gave a fresh orchid lei to our Loretta Ables Sayre (who is Bloody Mary), who later bestowed on Lorrie. Aloha lives. ...

Heads turned at Ruth's Chris Steak House at Waikiki Beach Walk last Tuesday night when Jacky Buder, former world champion bodyboarder and owner of the Barefoot League clothing line, showed up with footballers Colt Brennan, Davone Bess and Chad Owens for a goodbye party for Bess and his wife. Excited fans got autographs and photos. ...

Everything's coming up roses at Diamond Head Theatre, where "Gypsy" opens March 20 for a run through April 5, with Shari Lynn as Mamma Rose and Dennis Proulx as Herbie. It's the fourth time these local faves are doing a show together; Shari will raise the rafters, you watch, on that "Rosie's Turn" showstopper. ...

ALOHA, CORKY: Our condolences to Corky Trinidad's family; services for the Star-Bulletin cartoonist, who died Feb. 13, will be held at 1:30 p.m. today at Newman Center at the University of Hawai'i.

In his last days at St. Francis Hospice, Trinidad repeatedly heard the comforting refrains from good pal Kit Samson's three CDs. Among his final wishes: that Trinidad's daughter Pia Sprague could sing "Wind Beneath My Wings," the Bette Midler hit, with accompaniment by Samson. So Samson brought his digital keyboard for a rehearsal at the Trinidads' Haha'ione home — and there was nary a dry eye.

So: Samson had to bow out of that tribute show, from 1 to 4 p.m. today at the Waikiki nei Showroom at the Royal Hawaiian Center, to honor a certain retired columnist (moi!). But we salute Samson — a gentleman and a true friend — for doing the right thing. ...

And that's Show Biz. ...

Show Biz is published Tuesdays and Thursdays. Reach Wayne Harada at 525-8067, wharada@honoluluadvertiser.com or fax 525-8055.