INFORMATION
| Artist Birtday : | 05/04/1955(Age 70) |
| Born In : | Haiti |
| Occupation(s) : | Singer |
| Genres : | Creole Music, Konpa |
Born on April 5th, 1955, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Yole Dérose is an iconic figure in Haitian music and culture. Raised in a devout and traditional family, Yole discovered her passion for the arts early in life. From singing in her church choir as a child to exploring theater, dance, and design during her teenage years, she demonstrated an innate talent and determination to pursue creative endeavors, even in the face of familial restrictions.
Early Life and Path to Music
As a teenager, Yole was captivated by the arts, particularly dance, which she pursued secretly. Her journey took a pivotal turn when she moved to Canada to continue her studies. It was there, at Laval University, that she met the renowned Haitian singer Ansy Dérose, who would become her mentor, collaborator, and husband. Ansy, impressed by her natural beauty and vocal talent, introduced her to the world of music. Their love story blossomed into a marriage when Yole was just 20 years old.
Yole made her debut alongside Ansy at the Fifth International Festival of Song and Voice in Puerto Rico in 1979, where they performed the song Merci (Thank You). Their captivating performance earned critical acclaim and marked the beginning of their legendary partnership. Together, they became a symbol of love and artistry, celebrated for their emotive duets and public displays of affection that resonated deeply with fans across Haiti and the diaspora.
A Career of Love and Advocacy
Yole’s musical career thrived alongside Ansy’s. Their performances, often blending love songs and socially conscious lyrics, captivated audiences worldwide. Songs like Tonton Nwèl (Santa Claus) brought attention to the struggles of Haiti’s impoverished children, showcasing Yole’s ability to intertwine beauty and depth in her art.
After Ansy’s untimely passing in 1998, Yole embarked on a solo career, performing in the Caribbean, North America, and Europe. Her voice, a unique instrument of both strength and emotion, continued to inspire audiences. Beyond music, Yole ventured into fashion and interior design and founded a dance company in Haiti to nurture young talent.
Cultural Contributions and Legacy
Yole’s commitment to Haitian culture extends beyond performance. Through Les Productions Yole Dérose, she created platforms for artistic collaboration and education. Productions such as In the Name of Atlantis and Haiti, Tierra del Fuego highlight her dedication to preserving and promoting Haiti’s cultural heritage.
She also established Haiti Coeur de Femme, an initiative supporting young Haitian women in the arts. Her efforts reflect her belief in the transformative power of art and her commitment to empowering the next generation of artists.
Awards and Accolades
Yole’s impact has been recognized globally. From sold-out performances at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall to standing ovations at local theaters, her work continues to inspire admiration. She remains a beloved figure, celebrated for her grace, resilience, and dedication to her craft.
Personal Reflections
Despite her iconic status, Yole approaches life with humility and optimism. She attributes much of her success to Ansy, whom she considers her mentor and greatest influence. Today, she remains active in the arts, although she has shifted her focus to mentoring and producing.
A Message for Future Generations
Yole encourages young Haitian women to dream boldly, work tirelessly, and believe in the transformative power of art. She hopes for a future where Haitian culture is prioritized, celebrated, and taught in schools, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
Yole Dérose’s legacy is one of beauty, strength, and a profound love for Haiti. Through her voice, her art, and her unwavering dedication, she has carved an enduring place in the hearts of her people and the history of Haitian music.
