Author: Opastaff
The slave ships during the XVII and XVIII century transported millions of colored people from Africa to America carried within it the seed of a religious cult that would help the slaves in the Confederacy for their freedom. This is the story of the formation of African roots syncretic cults that worship spirits of two faces: black continent mystical entities hidden behind Catholic imagery. In Haiti reminisced Gucaimán night in which the slaves made a pact with the devil breaking their chains, giving rise to the legendary voodoo rites. We will witness the ceremonies of possession, where participants fall into…
Since stepping into the spotlight with Zin in April 2005, Sandra has quickly made a name for herself as the band’s newest member. Known for her vibrant energy and powerful voice, Sandra is filling the big shoes left by former member Daphne Dary. Opa recently caught up with Sandra to discuss her debut with Zin, her experiences so far, and her journey in the music industry. In this exclusive interview, Sandra shares her thoughts on joining Zin, her musical background, and how she’s handling the transition. She opens up about her past with the band TIZ, her unique vocal strengths,…
Rumors are surfacing that Kreyol La is facing significant challenges in Haiti, with sources indicating that the band’s regular performances are being marred by recurring fights in the crowd. According to insiders, the group’s gigs are frequently disrupted by altercations among fans, raising concerns about the band’s ability to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for their audience. At a recent performance, another fight broke out when two fans clashed, quickly escalating as others in the crowd became involved in the melee. This isn’t an isolated incident—these disruptions have become a regular occurrence, leaving some of Kreyol La’s members frustrated…
Rumors are circulating within the Haitian music industry that Frerot, the vocalist for Zenglen, is facing trust issues with some members of the band. According to insider sources, a few members of the Zenglen crew still harbor doubts about Frerot’s loyalty and commitment to the group. Why the Distrust? One source explained the situation, shedding light on the reasons behind the lingering tension. “Let me put it to you like this,” the source revealed. “First, during a meeting with Zenglen, Frerot admitted that he had an offer from Passion at that moment and could have left the group on the…
After an article was posted in the Daily News stating Haitians and Jamaicans would be banned on the parkway this year because they don’t follow the dress code, Opa reached out to the West Indian American Day Carnival Association’s reps, Ms. Jean Alexander, board member and director of marketing on the committee to get a little clarity on the matter. Cheyna: Hi, Ms. Alexander. My name is Cheyna Pierre and I’m calling from Opamizik.com. Alexander: Spell that for me, please? Cheyna: That O-P-A-M-I-Z-I-K dot com. Alexander: OK, how may I help you? Cheyna: I just have a few questions for…
Brooklyn, NY – August 06, 2005 — In response to a recent article published by the New York Daily News, which suggested that Haitians and Jamaicans would face a ban from this year’s Labor Day Parade on Eastern Parkway if they did not adhere to the dress code, Opa reached out for clarification. We spoke with Ms. Jean Alexander, board member and director of marketing for the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA), to address these concerns. Cheyna Pierre: Hi, Ms. Alexander. My name is Cheyna Pierre from Opamizik.com. Ms. Jean Alexander: Spell that for me, please. Cheyna: That’s O-P-A-M-I-Z-I-K…
In a contentious development, the West Indian American Day Carnival Committee (WIADCC) has introduced a last-minute rule that could significantly impact Haitian participation in this year’s carnival on Eastern Parkway. This decision comes after years of substantial Haitian involvement in the event, which has been a vibrant showcase of Caribbean culture in Brooklyn. During a routine meeting held at a modest office on Rogers Avenue, adorned with a sole commemorative poster from the 1999 Carnival, tensions were palpable. The meeting, led by Mrs. Yolanda Lezama, president of the WIADCC, and attended by various representatives of the Caribbean community, revealed a…
After several weeks away from the spotlight, Carlo Vieux, one of Carimi’s key members, is preparing to make his highly anticipated return to the group. His absence was due to personal matters, including caring for his father and addressing his own health, but fans can now expect Carlo back with the band soon. According to Carimi’s manager, Fito Farinen, Carlo had initially planned to rejoin the band this week. However, due to the need to transfer his father from a hospital in New York to one in Miami—where he will be closer to family—Carlo’s return has been slightly delayed. “Carlo…
Who is Georgy, also known as the Princess, really fooling? Lately, she’s been on a mission to defend James from T-Vice at every turn, especially concerning comments made by Cleo about James. It seems the Princess was more ruffled by Cleo’s remarks about James than the actual physical altercation that took place. While she adamantly denies any romantic involvement with James, those in the know might beg to differ. Let’s break down the whispers and dig a little deeper, shall we? My little investigation into their relationship suggests there might be more simmering beneath the surface. James and the Princess…
Tensions Rise Over Haitian Participation in West Indian Carnival In the heart of Brooklyn, where the Caribbean spirit thrives, a recent meeting has sparked controversy regarding the participation of Haitian bands in the West Indian American Day Carnival. The West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA), concerned about the significant Haitian presence in recent years, has introduced a last-minute rule potentially barring Haitian bands from the Parkway this year. Upon arriving at the WIADCA’s modest office on Rogers Avenue, I was immediately struck by a large poster depicting a vibrant T-Vice float from 1999, a prominent feature on the front…