INFORMATION
| Born In : | Haiti/Miami, Florida |
| Occupation(s) : | Guitarist, Singer |
| Genres : | Konpa |
| Agent : | Zenglen |
Jean Brutus Derissaint is a cornerstone of Haitian Konpa music, known as one of the founding members of the legendary band Zenglen. Beyond his role as a rhythm guitarist, Brutus has been the band’s steadfast manager, guiding its journey from its inception in the 1980s to its enduring prominence today. Among the original trio of co-founders—Gary Didier Perez and Patrick Martineau—Brutus remains the sole active member, embodying the band’s resilience and unwavering mission.
The Birth of Zenglen
In the quiet suburbs of Port-au-Prince during the 1980s, three friends—Brutus, Gary, and Patrick—bonded over their shared passion for music. Daily jam sessions evolved into a band, named Zenglen after a humorous moment when shattered beer bottles inspired the name, meaning “tiny pieces of broken glass.” Their shared vision was to revolutionize Konpa music.
In 1989, Zenglen recorded their debut album Koule Tan (The Color of Time). Their music quickly garnered attention, with radio hosts and listeners falling in love with the band’s innovative sound. The release of An Nou Alèz, featuring the hit song Fidel, cemented Zenglen’s reputation as a trailblazer in Konpa. The song’s lyrics addressed the challenges of change and pledged the band’s faithfulness (fidel) to modernizing Konpa.
Challenges and Perseverance
Zenglen’s early success was met with challenges. Following a U.S. tour, most band members departed, leaving Brutus to rebuild. Undeterred, he pursued his dream, assembling new musicians and experimenting with projects like Zenglen Plus and solo albums. Despite setbacks, Brutus remained faithful to his mission.
The turning point came with the recruitment of Richard Herard (Richie) as drummer and Gracia Delva as lead singer. This new lineup released the critically acclaimed album Easy Konpa, which propelled Zenglen to the forefront of the industry. Hits like 5 Dwèt and B.S. Productions showcased the band’s ability to address social issues, such as unqualified show producers, while Ti Poud and Flannè Femèl tackled taboo topics like drug use and LGBTQ+ representation.
Zenglen’s Legacy and Evolution
Under Brutus’s leadership, Zenglen earned the nickname “The Compas University” for its innovative contributions to the genre. Albums such as Let It Groove, Do It Right, 5 Etwal, and 5ème Vites demonstrated the band’s commitment to blending traditional Konpa with contemporary influences. The lyrics often reflected societal themes, relationships, and personal struggles, resonating deeply with fans.
Despite numerous personnel changes over the years, Zenglen has remained a beacon of consistency in the Haitian music scene. The band’s philosophy—“Zenglen doesn’t change; Zenglen improves”—echoes their commitment to evolving while staying true to their roots.
A Lifelong Commitment
Jean Brutus Derissaint’s journey with Zenglen is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and love for Haitian music. His ability to adapt, innovate, and lead has solidified his reputation as one of Konpa’s most influential figures. Through triumphs and trials, Brutus’s unwavering commitment ensures that Zenglen remains a symbol of excellence in the ever-changing world of Haitian music.
As Zenglen continues to captivate audiences with its music, Jean Brutus Derissaint stands as a living embodiment of the band’s spirit: steadfast, innovative, and ever faithful to the art of Konpa.
