INFORMATION
Artist Birtday : | 09/09/1960(Age 65) |
Born In : | Miragôane/US |
Occupation(s) : | Guitar, Songwriter, producer |
Genres : | Compas Direct |
Agent : | Zin |
With his reserved demeanor, Eddy Saint-Vil embodies the reluctant artist. However, his immense talent has always prevailed, no matter the discipline he pursued. As a child, he was an exemplary student at the John XXIII Brothers of the Bicentenary school, excelling in academics and sports. Naturally, it was at Saint-Louis de Gonzague where his consistency shone. He made his mark both academically and athletically, becoming a standout in football as a prodigy of the sports academy at the institution.
Academics and sports were not his only passions, as Eddy was also deeply interested in music. His love for music led him to learn the guitar, introduced by the renowned Boulo Valcourt, while he was also captivated by Eddy Woolley of “Les Difficiles” and maestro of “DP Express.” However, his obligations as a student and footballer took priority, relegating music to a hobby. Despite this, Eddy still managed to practice his guitar, exploring chords and sounds.
Eventually, like many of his generation, Eddy sought opportunities abroad, moving to New York where he enrolled at City College. There, he studied electronic engineering while also excelling in inter-university football, earning recognition for his contributions to his team. His passion for music resurfaced when he began playing guitar at student events, encouraged by peers like Jean Michel Théodate. These gatherings marked the beginning of Eddy’s emergence as a budding artist.
The formation of the group “Zin” soon followed, alongside Alex Abellard, Gardy Jean Charles, and other talented individuals like Allan Cavé. Eddy played a pivotal yet discreet role, earning the nickname “The Quiet Man.” He contributed significantly to the group, composing hits like “Pa Dekouraje” and “Fèm Vole,” which became generational anthems alongside other popular tracks of the time. Eddy’s responsibilities within “Zin” were vast—he served as guitarist, singer, composer, arranger, co-founder, administrator, and sound technician, all while continuing his work as a specialist at Bell Communications in New Jersey.
Though music became his priority, Eddy also pursued a master’s degree in computer science. Together with Alex, they modernized the local music scene by establishing a recording studio and production company, enabling them to break free from traditional structures. Under Eddy’s guidance, “Zin” became a powerhouse in Caribbean music, blending innovative sounds while championing female voices in konpa. Eddy’s contributions as a composer and producer extended to artists like Shirley Desgrottes and Liza Williams.
As “Zin” navigated the challenges of the music industry and internal changes, including Allan Cavé’s solo ambitions, Eddy adapted once more. He earned a second master’s degree in mathematics and education, returning to his passion for teaching while continuing to enjoy football. Even though the group eventually took a step back, they left a lasting impact on their loyal fan base. Eddy remains a key figure in the group’s legacy, coming out of his sabbatical occasionally for reunion performances, where fans still revere the “quiet man” for his distinctive style and contributions to the music that made “Zin” legendary.