Author: Opastaff
The Haitian Music Industry (HMI) ushers in each new year with the emergence of fresh bands, continuing a longstanding tradition. As 2008 unfolds, numerous bands formed by ex-members of previously popular groups are set to make their debut. Notable among these are Tempo, comprised of former members of 718; 5 Etwal, with alumni from Gabel & System band; Harmonik, which includes former talents from Zenglen, K-dans, and Krezi; and Bel Jazz, formed by ex-members of Hangout among others. Currently, Harmonik is showing the most promise with two grand premieres and a recently released album. The HMI also sees its share…
It’s undeniable that there were problems in Nu Look in the recent months. in an effort to quiet the rumors that were spreading about Gazzman leaving Nu Look to form his own band, Gazzman who sent out a press release to clear the air on certain issues the band was facing ended up creating more confusion than giving any answers. This weekend Opa TV caught up with Nu Look’s lead singer Gazzman Pierre at SOBs in Manhattan to chat about Nu Look’s recent troubles, his status in the band and much more. Click to listen and don’t forget to share…
One year after their first single, “La Femme de Mon Patron,” took the airwaves by storm, Bel Jazz is set to release their debut album, VAN VIRE, this weekend. This marks a major accomplishment for the band since their grand premiere in mid-February 2008 followed by a second release “K.P.S.” in late August. VAN VIRE will feature 12 original compositions collectively produced by the musicians of Bel Jazz. Lead singer, Pipo, showcases his astounding voice and vocal versatility throughout all twelve tracks in an array of storylines provided by each song. Infectious grooves will entice listeners to dance and/or sing…
With multiple locations throughout the tri-state area and a ferocious ad campaign that leaves their logo embedded in our subconscious, Solution Management Group has become a well-known and successful Haitian-owned business within the Haitian community. Solution Management Group, Inc. is a full-service tax, mortgage, and real estate firm specializing in individual and business tax preparation, as well as buying, selling, and financing real estate. Solution Management is a Haitian franchise founded in 2001 by entrepreneur and musician Witney A. Volcy. Despite its popularity and success, not many people know the man behind the operation. Mr. Volcy, a graduate of the…
Compasfest Statement It was never my intention to go public about the T-Vice contract, but after reading Mr. Cerenord’s statement regarding the reasons T-Vice will not participate in Compasfest 2009, it is fair enough that I let the fans know the “Real Reason.” T-Vice was one of the few Bands that performed at the first Compasfest in Miami when the festival had about 2000 attendees. We have a great deal of respect for “Noel and Cecibon” for bringing the Festival to where it is right now, a very successful event. We in the Vice Camp have given our all to…
In an era when many new Compas music albums often lack quality or meaningful messages, relying instead on sensationalism to elicit strong reactions from die-hard fans, it’s refreshing to see that Zenglen still caters to a diverse audience. Their latest release, the long-awaited 9th studio album titled “5ieme Vitesse,” skillfully varies its musical pace, offering something for both party-goers and those who prefer more thoughtful music. “5ieme Vitesse” serves up a mix of socially conscious tunes, love ballads, and high-energy tracks, ensuring there’s something for every taste. Despite frequent changes in lead vocalists over the years, Kenny Desmangles successfully introduces…
Brooklyn, NY – August 26, 2008— In a surprising turn of events, Digicel has announced its decision to sponsor Krezi Mizik for this year’s annual Labor Day Festival on Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, New York. This move marks a notable departure from the company’s longstanding tradition of sponsoring Djakout Mizik at the festival. Sources close to both parties revealed to Opa that Digicel’s decision was influenced by their unfamiliarity with Kensy of Kensy Productions, Djakout Mizik’s representative in New York and a well-known figure in the U.S. market. According to these sources, Digicel explicitly stated, “They didn’t know who Kensy…
After RAM’s manager Richard Morse informed Opa last weekend that Fos Baron Festival organizers never had a contract with RAM and that they were only using RAM’s name for publicity purposes and that RAM will be performing in Haiti, but not at Fos Baron Fest, another band that is suppose to be on the lineup seems to be a question mark as well. When Opamizik asked RaRam’s representative “Choubou” if Raram has obtained the visas they were supposed to have picked up last Monday, Choubou’s reply was very vague; he told Opamizik that the visas were approved but when I…
In a startling revelation, RAM’s manager, Richard Morse, has informed Opa that the Fos Baron Festival organizers have been using RAM’s name without an official contract, purely for publicity purposes. RAM is confirmed to perform in Haiti, but not at the Fos Baron Fest, throwing the festival lineup into further doubt. Adding to the festival’s woes, another scheduled performer, Raram, faces visa complications. According to Raram’s representative, Choubou, while the band’s visas have been approved, they have yet to be collected from the American Embassy. Choubou disclosed to Opa that despite approval, the embassy has not scheduled an appointment for…
Jojo Lorquet of all people must have wanted to give Rodney Noel the finger for a while now. So what did he do? He got together with others to make sure the gesture was long enough to stick it in Compas Festival’s organizers’ faces. Jojo Lorquet and company have put together a festival in Fort Lauderdale (hereafter FL) to go head-to-head with Compas Festival (hereafter CF) in Miami on the same day in May of next year. The lineups are as follows: Compas Festival: Djakout Mizik, Kreyola La, Back Up, Mizik Mizik, Harmonik, Brother Possie, Zin, Carimi, Nu Look, and…