In a candid conversation, Charlotvice opened up about the real reasons behind the dissolution of Top Vice and provided some surprising insights into the dynamics within the band. Addressing rumors and shedding light on previously undisclosed details, Charlot offered an insider’s perspective on the split and how it led to the creation of Nu Vice.
Charlot began by clarifying misconceptions: “Many people think Robert Martino and I had been planning to create Nu Vice for a long time. That’s simply not true. The reality is that I quit Top Vice. After I left, Robert Martino decided to join me. That’s how Freddy ended up alone. There was no grand scheme—Robert saw the situation for what it was and chose to come along. Given that Robert and Freddy have a much closer friendship, his decision to leave Freddy speaks volumes about the dynamic in the group.”
The central issue behind Charlot’s departure was, according to him, a lack of trust and confidence: “The main reason I left Top Vice was because I found out that Freddy went behind my back to file company papers on behalf of the band without informing me—this happened in February of last year, and I only found out recently. How can you work with someone after something like that? I’ve spent more time with the members of Top Vice than with my own family, so this kind of betrayal made it clear to me that it was time to start fresh.”
Charlot also highlighted the workload imbalance within the band: “Robert and I were essentially carrying Freddy. Robert could easily produce albums in his sons’ studio and generate income, and I could do the same with my studio and instruments. But Freddy was never around. It felt like we were doing all the work for him. Even in the music industry, I had an easier time securing contracts for ‘Charlotvice’ as a solo artist than for Top Vice.”
Charlot wrapped up by saying that despite these internal challenges, he had always pushed for Top Vice’s success over his solo career: “The producers wanted a Charlotvice CD after my solo success, but I insisted it be a Top Vice deal. Now, with Nu Vice, we are finally moving forward.”
The revelations not only provide clarity on the breakup but also give insight into the decision-making behind Nu Vice and how Charlot and Robert Martino aim to reshape their future in the Haitian music industry.