They recorded and released four popular Hawaiian Contemporary albums along with a "best of" compilation: Their work garnered them three Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards (Nā Hōkū Hanohano means "The Distinguished/Glorious Stars", Hawaii's version of the Grammy Awards) from the Hawaiʻi Academy of Recording Arts.
Their first album, Tropical Hawaiian Day, was released in 1991 and marked the official beginning of Troy and Ernie’s 7-year partnership as one of the most successful groups in contemporary island music.
Cruz played bass, acoustic guitar and handled main vocals for the majority of songs they recorded.
[1] As part of a collective of artists from the Palolo Housing area of Oahu, Cruz and Fernandez earned a steady gig at the Elks Lodge which also opened the door for Troy and Ernie to tour Japan for 6 months.
A last minute appearance a few years later at Moose McGillycuddy’s Pub became a regular gig - this time as “E.T.,” “Ernie/Troy” (a play on names after the popular film, ET – The Extra-Terrestrial).