Her name is Melly B—B as in Bosschaart, and Melly as in Mélina, and when you hear her sing a note, you’re certain you’ve heard a voice like hers before—but yet there is this other feeling that indicates that you haven’t. Or if you have—well—know that this Melly B’s musical style is not factory mahogany—but the pure type—the type that importers give top money for.

Bosschaart was born in Haiti to a Dutch father and a Haitian mother (the two met while the future Mrs. Bosschaart was vacationing in Europe, and after marrying, they settled in Haiti). Her music mirrors her background: soulful with European inflections.

Her songs are rarely upbeat, and will leave most listeners pensive. A lover’s lamentation about still holding on to a flame after a man’s heartless desertion, the song “Miles Away” has Melly B doing all sorts of vocal acrobatics, reminiscent of the throaty vocals of Joan Armatrading—the 60s and 70s singer-songwriter—and 90s singer Jewel, Pieces of You era.

Miss Bosschaart gives all that she has in the song “Ayiti”. It’s almost as if she felt that the more she gave of herself to the song, somehow…the more Haiti would get some energy towards some sort of transformation. Her style is formulated so that she can touch as many people as she can. A song like “I Don’t Wanna Cry” is so country, you can almost picture cowboy-hatted gents and flower-hat wearing dames dancing to it. “Adieu” is a French-language song and towards the middle, there is an unexpected rap verse.

Q & A

Kreyolicious: How would you describe your style?
I don’t like to limit myself to one specific style, but I would say that my style is a mixture of urban, afro-beat, and soul.

Kreyolicious: Do you remember your first performance ever?
To be honest, I don’t remember my first performance, but I do remember my first performance in front of a really large audience, which was in Haiti. I remember being so nervous before I got on stage, but once I started singing it felt like all the noise and everyone one around me was gone, it was just me and that microphone. After the performance I thought to myself, I wish I could do this every day.

Kreyolicious: That song “I Don’t Wanna Cry” has some serious country music inflections in it. Are you a fan of country music?
I am a fan of any type of music. For me, the important thing is that a song can move me, make me feel a certain type of emotion. But to be honest, the only music that I haven’t developed a real appreciation for—yet—is heavy metal.

Kreyolicious: You were born in Haiti. At which point, did you move to Canada?
After having lived in Holland for a while, my parents had decided that it would be a good idea for me to go to Haiti, where my mother was living at the time. But after a few months in Haiti my parents were worried about my safety due to all the kidnappings and problems in the country at the time. At that point, an opportunity for me to attend a really good school in Vancouver Island came up—and since they had a really impressive arts program—the decision was quickly made. I think I was 15 when I moved to Canada.

Kreyolicious: And somehow you ended up in Holland?
After I finished high school, I knew I wanted to continue my studies in Europe. Since Holland was a place where I lived before, and my father was there to help me, it just felt like I was just going back to my second home.

Kreyolicious: You studied audio engineering and actually have a degree in Audio Production. How important do you think it is for a woman artist to have a part in the behind-the-scenes process of her music?
Often women artists don’t have an understanding of what happens behind the scenes of their music. For me at least, it was important to learn all that, because now I can be effective in telling another engineer or a producer what I want, or why something is not working for a specific track. In my studies I also had to learn the business side of music, so now I don’t ever have to sign a contract—for example—without having some type of understanding, and having to rely on someone else to tell me wether it’s right or not. I also did not want to just be “the voice”. I want to help others with their careers and produce, and own a studio.

Kreyolicious: How do your parents feel about music being such a big part of your life?
I think I am lucky, because my parents have always supported my choices. I think also because the arts have always played a big role in their lives. I remember as a young girl watching my mother in her dance classes—which I think is how I started with dance. My father is also an artist. He designs unique furniture with a combination of materials, and [does] sculptures. They never doubted my abilities, and are still doing all they can so that I can live my dreams.

Kreyolicious: What artists do you find inspiring?
Some artists that have inspired me are: Lauryn Hill, Nneka, Nina Simone, Tracy Chapman—just to name a few.

Kreyolicious: Haiti obviously inspired your song “Ayiti”. Did the beat and lyrics come easily?
Haiti has always had a dear place in my heart, even after being away for so long. I wrote the song “Ayiti” when I was in Canada. I remember sitting in front of the piano in the music room of my school, feeling a bit sad because I was missing some aspects of my life of when I lived in Haiti. As I started to improvise, the words just came to me easily, because I knew exactly what I wanted to say. That was also the first song I ever wrote in Creole. At the time, I didn’t have much audio knowledge, but I felt like I did the best I could with the resources I had. The feedback I had from this song really encouraged me to continue on this path.

Kreyolicious: And the song “Adieu”?
I think I took a bit of a chance with “Adieu”, because it was the personal experience of someone I knew at the time. The beat production was made by a schoolmate of mine at the time, Shervin Naimi, I had the idea but did not know how to execute it, which is when I asked for his help.

Kreyolicious: That song “Bring Me Back to Life” is not the cookie cutter love song.
“Bring Me Back to Life” is about a woman desperately trying to hold on and get the love that she needs from a man who is afraid of commitment. I think this is a story that many women can relate to. It is a story that I have lived, and dealt with it in the best way I knew how, wrote a song. After taking a small “break” from my own music to do my studies, I wanted my new song to be something that many could relate to, and something I could truly show emotion, so I chose to share something personal. I am quite happy with this song, I feel that it is more mature than my previous work and shows more experience. The song is written and produced by me.

Kreyolicious: What’s life like in Amsterdam?
I really enjoy living in Amsterdam. It is such a diverse and open minded place. Till today I am always amazed by the beauty of the architecture and the cute little streets. I think anyone who has the opportunity should visit.

Kreyolicious: Is there a big community of Haitians there?
I don’t think there is a big Haitian community here, I have never met another Haitian since I have been here.

Kreyolicious: Most female artists would like their songs to speak for themselves, but then, sometimes the labels that package their music, or even other powers that be, often craft this image for them, that is often far from who they are—but that some deem necessary in order to sell the music.
For me, being myself is really important. I am still young. Everyday I learn something new about myself—which is why I think my music and my look is constantly changing. I don’t want to be put in a box and to be told who I am suppose to be. Yes, I would love to be able to sell lots of music and live from that, but not if that is costing me who I am, and my dignity. Individuality should be celebrated. If everyone looks and sounds a certain way, then to me that is boring.

Kreyolicious: In most of your songs, there is this recurring melancholy. What is the most painful things that has happened to you so far?
I think my parent’s divorce was really hard for me, because I was really young and never really understood it. It was also from that point that a lot of the moving around started, So I was often the new girl, and often had to say goodbye to people I started to care about. But I do understand it now and I love my parents. I think given the circumstances and sometimes the distance, they have done more than a good job raising me.

Kreyolicious: You lived in Haiti up until you were a teen, but have been bouncing everywhere from Canada to Guadeloupe. Has it been easy calling somewhere other than Haiti home?
At this point, I don’t really know where to call home. Even when I visit Haiti now, I feel like a stranger. But for now, I have my own place in Amsterdam, and is where I am slowly building my adult life. I’m not sure where I will end up next, but to me my family is my home.

MELLY B ON TWITTER | MELLY B ON FACEBOOK | MELLY B’S WEBSITE

Tifany Sejour, professionally known as Tifane, has an arresting voice. This fact is more than clear in her debut album Anprent, originally released in the mid 2000s, which / has had the chance to.

The freshness the singer beings to Haitian music can only be compared to a seacoast breeze in the middle of lake of fire and sulfur-hot summer, or a drop of water in the middle of an isolated mine. The lyrics on the 10-song album are thoughtful, poetry-filled, and they rocked (the 11th track “Mèsi”, an interlude barely at two minutes long, still showed off Tifane’s assets as an immensely gifted vocalist). “Se Kòmsi”[It’s as If]—a soft-core ballad, captured the fragility of love, and had a twin version—an uptempo reggae-filled remix with an artist called BelO as her duet partner.

And then there is “Avè’w” [With You], a romantic ballad whose sexiness is practically understated. As if to prove that her music isn’t merely about sugary ballads and love songs, Tifane also throws in a fast number, “Ou Enève m” [You Piss me Off], a very militant track, with her voice down to a snarl. Indeed, the singer’s debut Anprent is filled with many musical treasures, and songwriting, and the biggest treasure of all was Tifane’s chocolatey soprano.

But what would Tifane do for a comeback? Her most supportive and ardent fans have no doubt wondered if she could sustain the hardcore creativity that had made Anprent a musical event. Would Tifane’s second album be a step forward? They all have their answer with the album Sous la Peau [Under the Skin].

First and foremost, Sous la Peau is not a step backwards. It heralds a more mature Tifane, lyrically and musically, while maintaining the style that most have come to expect from her. There seems to have been a conscious plan to repeat the style of at least some of the tracks from the previous album. The zouk-inflected “Souke Sa” [Shake That] is too much like “Sekrè a” [The Secret] from the Anprent album to have an identity of its own. “Vin Montre’m” [Come Show Me] is a much better track, for those who might be looking for something uptempo. It’s more than a dance track, however; it preaches self-love, acceptance, and self-discovery: “Apran fè tèt ou plezi” (Learn to make yourself happy), Tifane recommends or rather commands.

One of the album’s best track “Si w te La” [If You Were Here] doesn’t start out too promising, in the first few seconds (“Maestro”…), but thankfully it was just a few seconds of autotune. The song features starlet Talie in the background, as well as some rapping “Si ou te la/M’tap chache afeksyon/M tap monte lesyèl pa do…Si w te la mwen pa tap santi m byen konsa/Si w te la” (If you were here/I would be searching for some affection/I’d be climbing heavens backwards/…If you were here, I wouldn’t be feeling so good/If you were here). Well, good riddance! This is a feminist, self-empowerment track as there ever was. How often does the female species puts up with miserable relationships, and sorrowful situations just to show a façade to the rest of the world? But how much better it is to love oneself, at the cost of society’s disapproval? The relationship that needs mending or breaking does not necessarily have to be the relationship with a significant other. It can also be the relationship one has with oneself. For as Tifane sings: “Mwen pra l viv pou mwen/Mwen pa p mizerab pou-ou” (I’m going to live to please myself/I’m not going to make myself miserable for your sake). In another verse, she sings: “Li lè pou m renmen tèt mwen. Mwen pra l okipe de mwen” (It’s time for me to love myself/I’m going to finally take care of myself).

Placed alongside “Si w te La”, and “Mwen Merite Lanmou”, “Regle Zafè’w” reinforces Tifane’s stance of self-love, self-acceptance and self-determination: “Pa tande pyès moun ki di’w kanpe la pitit/Pèson pa ka regle zafè’w pi byen pase…Pa bliye kale je’w” (Don’t listen to no one who tells you, you can’t go further/No one can take care of your business better than you can/Don’t forget to keep your eyes open).

“Hello” differs strongly from the rest of the songs on the album, and sets itself apart immediately. It’s saxophone-heavy, and it’s more traditionally konpa, and eschews the world afro-beat that has become Tifane’s trademark. “W ap pale m de li” [You’re Telling Me About Him] has this ballroom feel; the Spanish guitar strings really sets it off.

Sous la Peau introduces fans to a Tifane, the same as always, but an enhanced Tifane. Now, hear from the songbird herself.

Q & A

The album Anprent introduced you as a musical artist. What can you tell us about your new album Sous la Peau?

Considering all I’ve been through since Anprent and all the experiences I’ve had, I think Sous la Peau is a demonstration of my maturity and my evolution in music as a song writer and singer. Sous la Peau is a little bit more live because of all the musicians who participated.

Who did you work with?

I was fortunate to work with some people I’ve been supported by since the beginning like Fabrice Rouzier, Joel Widmaier, Makarios Cesaire, MikaBen, Lòlò and Manzè from Boukman Eksperyans, and Eric Virgal. There are others I met along the way like Nantalie Indongo—also known as Imablackgirl—from the band Nomadic Massive, Harius Joseph from Zèklè, Hansito Mercier Jr., with Loulou from Kreyol la and Eric Pimentel with Dany Gonzales from Orlando.

How long did it take for you to assemble the songs?

It feels like I’ve been working on it for ten years because things were going very slowly. But, in total, I can say it took me two years—almost three—to work on this album.

In your song, “Avè-w”, from your debut album, you sung about the joys of love. You recently married. Is love everything you thought it would be?

I married a very special and entertaining man. I mean really entertaining! [Laughter] We have a very special and rare kind of love because we both prayed about us so I can say that I am blessed. It’s a better than what I had planned for myself, but that’s how God blesses. I enjoy the married life. I’m an international singer, traveling all the time—but I’m still a wife. We share the chores in the house. I do most of the cooking, but I don’t mow the lawn. That’s all him! [Laughter]

As a career woman for such a long time, do you think that a woman has to marry and have a family to feel fulfilled?

I think it depends on the woman. For many of us—career and business women—the goal is to rise to the top, but that’s only one side of who we are. The other side, is the woman in us, and for most, it’s all good to be at the top of your game, but it can get pretty lonely. Again, it depends on the person. If a woman is completely satisfied with being successful and single, it should be respected. Me, I’m too lovable and affectionate for that type of life. I may enjoy the benefits of fame but it can’t keep me warm at night or wipe my tears and make me feel special.

You’ve said in past interviews that your favorite Haitian female artists were Princess Georgie from the group Zin and Emeline Michel. Have you meet either of them? Any collaborations in view?

What I really said was that I admired Georgie’s way [of] impos[ing] herself in the business instead of just being eye candy on stage because that’s how women are usually used in Haitian bands. They get two songs on the album and sing back up. I grew up listening to Emeline and my admiration for her comes from her audacity to go the other way and not sing konpa. I met her before I became Tifane and I told her she’d hear about me some day. We’ve performed together plenty times, but no collabos yet.

How do you handle your fame?

Naturally, I’m very down to earth. I take every big contracts or anytime I’m surrounded by fans for autographs as special moments. It can get scary and dangerous. I’ve had my hair pulled from my scalp, my clothes almost ripped, I’ve been groped, and my car completely covered with fans, I’ve signed autographs on faces, backs, necks, and some guys gave me their boxers to sign. The most uncomfortable situation is being stared at when I’m at the beach. I keep my private life private and all that doesn’t go up my head at all.

Do you ever worry about people using you?

I’ve had that happened before, sometimes I let it fly because it’s obvious that the person is just trying to show people that they know me but on anything big that I won’t tolerate, I either tell them off or I just keep my distance. I try to be one step ahead. I hate when people try use me for money.

Have you lost friends since you’ve become famous?

No, not one. I’m not the type who forgets her friends or ignores them. I may not be as available as I used to [be], but I do my best to stay in touch. So far, I’m still friends with everyone I grew up with.

Older and wiser, what do you wish you had done differently when you first got on the musical scene?

I wish I had an image consultant when I first started. I’ve worn a lot of gorgeous Haitian designer clothes, but some made me look so much older than I was. I also wish I’d put my foot down more often when I was offered too little for some shows. I guess back then, the artist side dominated the business side of me. I’ve learned so much and I still don’t regret anything that happened, good and bad.

Do you ever imagine a time when performing and recording will not interest you anymore?

Oh noooo, not yet. I don’t know when or if that day will come, but I know that if I stop performing, it will be for a much greater cause, something revolutionary even or maybe it will be because I found so much more happiness in my personal life than the star life. Trust me, it’s not easy being Tifane—let alone being a female solo artist in the H[aitian]M[usic]I[industry].

Now, in view of all this technology that’s being introduced every nanosecond, is it your feeling that one day that the very notion of a solo recording artist will be obliterated?

So far, the technology has been good to me business-wise because I’m able to promote myself around the world and I know how many of my songs are bought online anywhere in the world. However, when it comes to all the fancy software for the recording studio and voice editing, I think it’s very dangerous for those artists who rely on them. When it comes to singing live, as a solo artist you’ve got to be able to sound just as awesome. I stay away from those, only if it’s an effect used to mix or to give a little flavor to a song.

You have a degree in sociology. Has that helped you in your songwriting? Sociology has enhanced my way “in-depth” way of looking at the world.

When I was a kid, nature was my main source of inspiration. Now, I write because I look deeply at people, chain of events, human interactions and everything that’s good, funny, bad, ugly, amazing, inspiring and sad. I write according to what I see people might need to hear to feel better or to do something great in life.

Do you plan on pursuing your education further?

Definitely. I used to be afraid of stepping out of my Tifane realm because I hate feeling like I’m missing out when I’m not on tour or when things are happening and I’m not part of them. Knowing me, when I go back to school that will be the only thing I will focus on. I won’t be able to travel and study at the same time.

What can you be seen doing when you’re not performing?

If I’m not visiting schools to meet young people and address certain important issues their parents won’t talk about, you can find me promoting the integration of handicapped people in Haitian society, not only because I am the Ambassador for the cause, but because I find it crucial to think of them and their accessibility to everything if we are really rebuilding Haiti.

Are you a feminist?

In many ways, yes. I’m a woman who believes that no one has the right to limit or take away my rights, and I do believe that I should be paid just as much as a man would for the same job. My parents taught me that I’m not superior nor inferior to no one. I’m not anti-men; I know we complete each other and I do believe that if something is too heavy for me to pull, push or lift, a man should do it for me.

BelO was on a remix version of your song “Se Kòmsi”. In the future, will there be duets with other musical artists?

I think Eric Virgal and I will have a duet. I’m not sure when but he’s been talking about it. I have a few other artists I also think I might do duets with.

Who are your dream musical collaborators?
I have so many it’s crazy. I would love to record a song with Joel Widmaier, John Legend, Medhy Custos, India Irie, Gage, Jean-Luc Guanel, Alicia Keys and Jill Scott.

You profess to be a big fan of Whitney Houston. What have you learned from her life?
I miss Whitney’s presence in the music world because I always looked forward to hearing something new from her. She’s the reason why I wanted to be a star. I’ve learned that no matter how far your can go in this business, when you make one mistake such as a going along with peer pressure and drugs, the same world who appreciated you is the same one who will make jokes and laugh at your fall. To me she is irreplaceable. I see that they compare other young artists who shall remain nameless to her, but they can’t be Whitney on their best day. I’ve also learned that great artists like her always die young or troubled.

After this album, what are your plans?

Well, I can already see that I’m about to travel a lot and live out of my carry-on bag, so I’m putting together my next project in the meantime. I was offered to bring to life old hits and unedited songs of the great Raoul Guillaume by Raoul himself. It’s a very big honor considering that the famous Celia Cruz and so many other big Cuban Stars have interpreted his songs. I think it will be fun to remix them and give them a fresh new look. He gave me about 8 to 10 songs with their partitions.

How can Haitian music be on the same international level, as say, reggae and Latin music?

The best way is to make sure that the quality of our recordings are within international standards, that we keep singing in Creole to impose our native tongue instead of thinking that we must sing in an other language to cross over. Until we realize that performing for an all-Haitian crowd in
another country doesn’t make us international, we will never cross that bridge. When people, [and] producers from other nations get to see us on stage in our own style and our own language instead of imitating others, our music will go so much further. Authenticity is very important. Unfortunately, now I see more international artists performing in Haiti and not all of them are huge stars, while very few Haitian artists, including myself, are performing on international stages. Something’s wrong.

What’s the worst rumor you’ve heard about yourself?

Before I released my album, I stayed in Florida getting ready to hit the stage again. Rumor has it that I have not been to Haiti in a while because I was so embarrassed to go back, since I married a man who took all my money and left me shortly after. There isn’t a drop of truth.

Ahem, let’s show our support for our Haitian artists by either purchasing their music, if it’s within our possibilities, or let us send them some words of love and appreciation. Check Tifane out here.

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KREYOLICIOUS YOURS…TIFANE

Kreyolicious starts the sentences…Tifane finishes them. Let’s see what she had to say…

Most people don’t realize that I am…not that good at making friends, but I’m just nice to everyone I meet.

A sure way to get me mad is to…underestimate me or make decisions for me without my consent.

3 People I wish were here with me right now…My grandmother Manmi Jeanine, my friend Mironda, my granpa Ti Pèpère.

My three favorite foods are…Chocolate, seafood mostly, lanbi [conch], sushi, steak.

I would die if…I lost my voice.

Oh, please don’t ever…raise a hand on me or my loved ones, [I’m] not violent but I can throw a mean punch instinctively.

Three artists I’m feeling right now…Melanie Fiona, Kes the band.

The last time I cried was when…in April, my recording engineer told me he was having a big problem with one of my songs for the album.

God is…the captain of my ship. I gave myself to him and I’ve been seeing miracles and amazing things I can’t explain happening for me non-stop.

My parents…[are] awesome, cool, loving, good looking and very supportive.

My life right now can be best described as…eventful, fun, very busy and crazy.

Three words that describe me…smart, real, sexayyyyy.

What I want to be written on my grave...With Tifane in heaven there’ll be music and one more ray of sunshine in the sky.

Jonathan Perry, known as JPerry on the stage, can get the badge and the sash as the unofficial cultural ambassador of Haiti through his music. One of his past singles “Dekole” might have served as track music for a commercial on Haiti’s tourism, and its subsequent music video as visual for a travelogue. The song stroke such a chord, with verses praising Haiti’s natural assets and its tropical beauty.

The song “Enjoy” takes over where “Dekole” left off. After the smooth flow of the “Dekole” video from Mage Entertainment, one’s expectations for the “Enjoy” video was as high as can be, and when the firm behind it is none other than commercial bastion Bruno Mourral’s Muska Group, one expects something up to par. So, when one is served with cut-offs of heads and a scene where Perry, riding a motorcycle, can only be seen from the hands up to his arms, one is compelled to scratch one’s head. Until, that is, one fully grasps the true concept of the video. With images of Perry on performing on stage interceded with casual shots of him in a recording studio with his entourage, sitting on algae-permeated rock at the mouth of a beach, and intermingling with everyday people on the streets of Haiti, the video is meant to show a more personal view of Haiti than “Dekole” did. Kinda like if one is given a video camera to film one’s neighborhood and one’s country with a personal flair.

Anh, oke!

Mr. Perry propels a message about Haiti’s beauty, and that’s fine, as he does a stupendous job at it. But it must be said that to grow as an artist, Mr. Perry should branch out to other subjects next time. Songs like “Dekole” and “Enjoy” have a perennial aspect to them. But, the time has come for Perry to break out of the mold, even if it has procured him a great deal of well-deserved attention.

For instance, how about a romantic ballad in Creole next time to diversify the artist’s portfolio?

Ahem, this said, let us turn our attention to the music video itself. Want to sing along with the video? The lyrics are below (followed by a translation).

LYRICS

Intro:
Baoli Records baby

Paradise
Ayiti cheri
M ap enjoy
M ap trip nan peyi a
Ann ale

Paradise
Haiti baby
I’m enjoying
I’m tripping in this country
Let’s go

[Chorus]
Gadon ti peyi mezanmi Ayiti
Gad kijan m ap enjoy
Enjoy
Lakay se lakay
Bon manje, bèl plezi
Yon paradi m ap enjoy
Enjoy
Se konsa mwen wèl
Gad jan peyi mwen bèl
Mezanmi kite l viv non
Li lè pou l avanse

[Chorus]
Man, this Haiti is some country
Look at how I’m enjoying myself
Enjoy
Home sweet home
Some good food, loads of fun
I’m really enjoying this paradise
Enjoy
That’s the way I see it
Look how good the country’s looking
You people need to leave it alone
It’s time for it to make some progress

Mwen renmen Ayiti
M pap janm viv lòt kote
Se ti peyi m, ti cheri m
Se li ke m adore

I love me some Haiti
Can’t imagine ever living anywhere else
It’s my country, my baby
It’s the one that I adore

Nou soti lwen
Yon jou na rive lwen
Peyi sa pa ka gaspiye

We’ve come far
Someday we’ll get far
This country won’t to waste

E lè male, mwen toujou retounen
Paka kite l dèyè
Fò nou voye li monte
Fò nou demele kò nou
Yon jan pou n sa ranje l
Pou n fèl rive pi wo

When I go away, I always come back
Can’t leave it behind
We got it
We got to get things moving
So that one day we can fix it
So it can get further

Ayiti son gwo ti peyi vre
Se pa manti non
Se pawòl serye
Mwen santi m kool lè mwen di se Ayisyen mwen ye
Malgre pwoblèm, ke m konnen l genyen

Ayiti is a fine little country
And that’s no lie
That’s real talk
I feel cool when I say I’m Haitian
Despite all the problems it has

Mwen pa p janm kite bèl peyi sa gaspiye
Pou jan l gen trip ladan l
Imajine kisa l ta ye si nou ta mete lòd
Nou mete l a la mòd

I’m never going to let this country go to waste
It’s too much fun
Imagine what it could become if we were to put things in order
Make it the place to be

[Chorus]
Gadon ti peyi mezanmi Ayiti
Gad kijan m ap enjoy
Enjoy
Lakay se lakay
Bon manje, bèl plezi
Yon paradi m ap enjoy
Enjoy
Se konsa mwen wèl
Gad jan peyi mwen bèl
Mezanmi kite l viv non
Li lè pou l avanse

[Chorus]
Man, this Haiti is some country
Look at how I’m enjoying myself
Enjoy
Home sweet home
Some good food, loads of fun
I’m really enjoying this paradise
Enjoy
That’s the way I see it
Look how good the country’s looking
You people need to leave it alone
It’s time for it to make some progress

M bwè dlo kokoye
M manje lanbi
M souse rapadou
Banm yon ti dous makos
Ak yon ti Barbancourt
M gen annpil lanmou pou wou
Pase mwen konn sa ou vo
Devan lemond antye
Fòw drapo w vole pi wo
Nou gen bèl mòn, bèl lanmè
Bèl sous, bèl rivyè
Bon son, ak frechè

I drink me some coconut water
I eat myself some conch
I suck on molasses bars
Give me a little homemade candy
And a little Barbancourt
Got so much love for you
‘Cause I know what you’re really worth
When compared to everywhere else in the world
Your flag’s will fly higher
We’ve got some majestic mountains, some pretty beaches
Some great waterfalls, some nice rivers
Nice sound, some great breeze

[Chorus]
Gadon ti peyi mezanmi Ayiti
Gad kijan m ap enjoy
Enjoy!
Lakay se lakay
Bon manje, bèl plezi
Yon paradi m ap enjoy
Enjoy!
Se konsa mwen wèl
Gad jan peyi mwen bèl
Mezanmi kite l viv non
Li lè pou l avanse

Man, this Haiti is some country
Look at how I’m enjoying myself
Enjoy
Home sweet home
Some good food, loads of fun
I’m really enjoying this paradise
Enjoy
That’s the way I see it
Look how good the country’s looking
You people need to leave it alone
It’s time for it to make some progress

M ap enjoy, m ap enjoy
M ap enjoy Pòtoprens, e sitou nan provens
Everyday

I’m enjoying, I’m enjoying
I enjoy Port-au-Prince and especially in the other little cities too
Everyday

[Creole Lyrics via Anton Translations by Kreyolicious]
Music video via Kompa Grooves Channel]

Blue lagoon cocktail with orange and crushed ice.

Over the years, the Caribbean has provided many cocktail lovers and bartenders alike with numerous classic staples. From Mexican-based tequila cocktails to colorful Curacao masterpieces, the root of rum cocktails is firmly planted in Caribbean culture. Nowadays, cocktail creation has reached almost peak popularity with everyone looking to try something new and exciting.

If you’re new to Caribbean cocktails or are looking for new inspiration to experiment with, look no further. We’ve compiled a fresh list of cocktail recipes to try.

Let’s Get Started

All Caribbean cocktails have some needed preparation. Particularly if you’re aiming to ace these specialty drinks, you’re going to want to do some groundwork before you start. Start by  gathering all the alcoholic ingredients you need. For Caribbean cocktails, you’ll want the best of the best. Whether it’s a specific kind of rum straight from a particular country or a unique tequila, this can be the small variable that makes a huge difference. When purchasing, look into online alcohol delivery. Some can offer you specialty alcohol brands you may not be able to find in stores near you. Check to see what’s available in your area!

Next, gather your garnishes. Many Caribbean drinks require sweet fruits like oranges, pineapples and more. Make sure you have more than the base amount needed so you can munch while you mix.

Last but not least, be sure to have your bartending equipment handy! Cocktail shakers will be needed for most of these recipes so be sure to have them ready to go. Plus, ice makers, fancy glasses, and any other alcohol gadgets can help you out as you try out these new drinks

1. Pina Colada (Puerto Rico)

For the most classic of Caribbean cocktails, we had to start off with the luxurious Pina Colada. Originating in Puerto Rico over 60 years ago, this tasty rum-based coconut concoction is synonymous with a vacation in paradise. Between the delicious tropical and fruity flavors, and the ease in throwing the drink together, nothing says relaxation like a homemade pina colada.

Check out our recipe here to get started.

The Pina Colada is a creamy, coconutty, rum based tropical drink. Please drink responsibly.

2. Dark “N” Stormy (Bermuda)

Born and raised in the Bermuda area, the Dark “N” Stormy is a staple rum cocktail for those who really love a bit of spice. It is said that due to the area’s abundance of rum and sailors, this drink was a favorite among many locals for quite some time. It still is to this day. Similar to an American rum and coke recipe, a Dark “N” Stormy incorporates rum and ginger beer. Adding the two together with some lime juice to finish it off creates a refreshing citrusy flavor.

Full recipe here.

3. Rum Punch (Saint Lucia)

This recipe originates in one of the most beautiful countries in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia’s. The island’s colorful and natural terrain lends itself perfectly to a sweet and colorful cocktail, like this Rum Punch. Again made with a base of rum, this punch concoction uses some of Saint Lucia’s favorite fruits like oranges, pineapples, and limes to give a sweet and refreshing kick. If you’re looking for the perfect combo of taste and appearance, this is the drink for you!

Find step-by-step instructions here.

A fruity, exotic blend, it is considered one of the best tropical welcome cocktails.

4. Blue Lagoon (Curacao)

If you’ve ever set foot on a Caribbean island, you’re probably familiar with the crystal blue ocean water that surrounds as far as the eye can see. With this inspiration in mind, we introduce: the Blue Lagoon. Unsurprisingly, this concoction from Curacao incorporates Blue Curacao liqueur. And while you may think it would give a standard “blue drink” flavor, this recipe is focused instead on a lemonade taste. If you’re looking for something sweet for your next pool party or even a night at home, give this colorful drink a shot.

Find the full drink here!

5. Classic Margarita (Mexico)

Although Mexico isn’t always considered part of the Caribbean, we would be remiss if we omitted the classic Mexican margarita. This drink has risen to extreme popularity since its initial introduction in 1942. It consists of classic, pure tequila mixed with liqueur and juice. You can’t go wrong with a margarita that not only tastes good, but also looks good! 

See our recipe here.

A Mexican tequila based cocktail traditionally served with the appropriate lime and salt embellishments in a glass shaped like an inverted sombrero.

6. Painkiller (British Virgin Islands)

This drink derives from the British Virgin Islands, a stretch of islands in the Caribbean known for its historical connection to England. The “painkiller” name comes from local lore claiming that a few glasses will make you forget your all your pain. Locals and vacationers of the area enjoy it as they swim back and forth between their boats and beach-side bars, a tradition you can still take part in today.

What makes this drink unique is the usage of darker rum rather than lighter variations of rum that are recommended for the previous concoctions. This is a nice mix-up if you’re a fan of dark rum!

Full recipe here.

7. Aruba Aribe (Aruba)

Using Coecoei, a local Aruban liquor, as a base, this drink is a unique rum and vodka combination that puts it in a class of its own. It can be combined with any of your favorite fruit juices like pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and orange juice. This rich, red cocktail is a yummy, fruity option that you should consider trying!

If you’re able to acquire Aruba specialty liquors, this recipe should be a no-brainer!

Check out the full recipe on the official Visit Aruba blog!

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Storming Papa Doc
Documentary
directed by Mario L. Delatour
On July 28 1958, ex-army officers to Haiti from Florida landed in Delugé. They take possession of Dessalines Barracks behind the Palais National, in order to remove President François Duvalier. The night of July 28 to 29will be a long confrontation between Duvalier and his attacker. Former Captain Alix Pasquet, Lt. Henry Perpign, Dominique Philippe along with 5 American mercenaries.
–
#duvalier #haiti #tuskegee #haitian #army #mercenaries #president #florida #documentary #film #dessalines #papadoc #history #istwa

Jan 12, 2010… Haiti is hit by a catastrophic magnitude 7.0 earthquake, with an epicenter near the town of Léogâne and approximately 25 km west of Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital. It was a Tuesday and the earthquake occurred at 4:43 PM (local time).
That is the most devastating earthquake in history.
Over 300 000 people lost their lives, 1.5 million left homeless or displaced and created between $7.8 billion and $8.5 billion in damage.
A decade later where are we? 📝 credit: @lucknerjoseph –
#haiti #earthquake #ayiti #1804 #12janvier2010 #pap #leogane #tremblementdeterre #history #damage #seismic #tragedy

On January 1, 1804, Jean-Jacques Dessalines declared Haiti’s independence and the country became the first free Black Republic, ending slavery. The Soup Joumou (winter squash), which was prepared by the slaves, for the slavemasters, was forbidden to them. Therefore, since January 1st 1804, its consumption is a strong symbol of celebration and liberation of the Haitian people which is celebrated every year around the world.
–
Premye Janvye 1804, Jean-Jacques Desalin te deklare endepandans Ayiti, se te premye Repiblik nwa lib, sispan esklavaj. Soup Joumou, ki te prepare pou met esklav yo, te entèdi pou esklav yo. Se sa ki fè, depi jou sa a, nan dat sa a, konsomasyon li se yon senbol solid nan selebrasyon ak Liberasyon pep Ayisyen ke yo selebre atravè mond lan.
–
Le 1er Janvier 1804, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, déclare l’indépendance d’Haïti et elle devient la première République Noire libre, mettant fin à l’esclavage.
La soupe au Giraumon qui était préparée pour les maîtres, était interdite aux esclaves. Par conséquent, depuis ce jour, à cette date, sa consommation est un symbole fort de célébration et de libération du peuple haïtien célébrée autour du monde.
–
#ayiti #independance #endepandans #istwa #1804 #janvier #joumou #soupe #soup #ayisyen #haitien #haitian #blackrepublic #dessalines #slaves #slavery #history #histoire #haiti #slave #slavemaster #maitre #westindies #hispaniola #carribeans #africa #france #french 📸: Cindy Similien-Johnson

The ISTWA1804 team would like to wish each and everyone a Happy New Year and a prosperous year 2020. We promise to create more informational and original content to contribute to the ISTWA1804 community.
–
Ekip ISTWA1804 la ta renmen swete nou yon Bon Ane 2020 chaje ak pwosperite. Nou pwomèt ou nap kreye anpil kontni orijinal ak enfomatif pou kontribye ak fè kominote a pi bèl!
–
L’équipe de ISTWA1804, vous souhaite une Bonne et Heureuse année 2020 pleine de prospérité. Nous nous engageons à créer plus de contenu original et informatif pour notre belle communauté. –
#istwa1804 #istwa #1804 #2020 #newyear #new #year #bonneannee #content #ny #community #haiti #ayiti #histoire #history #prosper #prosperity

On October 17th 1806, Dessalines was assassinated north of Port-au-Prince, at Pont Larnage (now known as Pont-Rouge), on his way to fight the rebels. His assassination did not solve the tensions within the Haitian government, as his removal created a civil war and a temporary partition of Haiti between Alexandre Pétion and Henri Christophe.
The circumstances of his death are uncertain. The mob desecrated and disfigured his remains, which were abandoned on Government Square. There was a lot of resistance to providing him with a proper burial, but Défilée (Dédée Bazile), a black woman from a humble background, took the mutilated body of the Emperor and buried it. A monument at the northern entrance of the Haitian capital marks the place where the Emperor was killed.
–
17 oktòb 1806, yo te assassine Dessalines nan nò Pòtoprens, nan Pont Larnage (kounye a yo rele Pont-Rouge), sou wout pou l te al goumen kont rebèl yo. Asasina Desalin lan pa t rezoud tansyon yo nan gouvènman ayisyen an, paske li te kreye yon gè sivil ak yon patisyon tanporè an Ayiti ant Alexandre Pétion ak Henri Christophe. Sikonstans egzak lanmò li pa sèten. Foul yo anonse l ‘ak defigire rès li yo, ki te abandone nan kare Gouvènman an. Te gen anpil rezistans nan bay l ‘yon antèman apwopriye, men Défilée (Dédée Bazile) pran rès kò Anperè pou l te al antere l’. Yon moniman nan antre nò kapital ayisyen an make kote Anperè a te mouri.
–
Le 17 octobre 1806, Dessalines fût assassiné au pont Larnage (aujourd’hui Pont-Rouge) au nord de Port-au-Prince, alors qu’il combattait les rebelles. Son ‘assassinat créa un vide politique qui entraîna une guerre civile et une partition temporaire d’Haïti entre Alexandre Pétion et Henri Christophe. Les circonstances exactes de sa mort sont incertaines. La foule profana et défigura ses restes, qui furent abandonnés sur la place du Gouvernement. Il y eu beaucoup de résistance à lui fournir une sépulture appropriée, mais Défilée (Dédée Bazile), une femme noire de milieu modeste, pris le corps mutilé de l’empereur et l’enterra. Un monument à l’entrée nord de la capitale haïtienne marqua l’endroit où l’empereur fût tué.