10 Best Up-and-Coming Haitian Artists with Michaël Brun

Haitian DJ and producer Michaël Brun has built a career on bridging cultures, and his latest single, 'Touchdown', is another powerful testament to that mission.

Featuring an all-star lineup including reggaeton giant J Balvin, dancehall legends Beenie Man and Bounty Killer, and rising Jamaican singer Tasan, the track is a high-energy fusion of sounds that celebrates the deep musical ties between Haiti, Jamaica, and Latin America. Known for his ability to blend traditional Caribbean influences with modern global pop, Brun continues to push the boundaries of what Haitian music can be, following the success of his socially conscious single 'Safe' with John Legend and Rutshelle Guillaume.

Beyond his own releases, Brun is a tireless advocate for emerging Haitian talent, using his platform to elevate voices from his homeland. His annual BAYO block party has become a vital space for showcasing Haiti’s diverse sonic landscape, bringing traditional 'rara' rhythms into conversation with Afrobeats, dancehall, and electronic music. Now, he turns that same curatorial vision into a playlist highlighting 10 of Haiti’s most exciting rising artists. This selection spans genres and generations, from forward-thinking rappers blending Creole lyricism with trap beats to soulful vocalists drawing on kompa’s rich traditions.

As Haiti continues to face political and social upheaval, its artists remain a beacon of resilience and creativity. Brun’s playlist serves as both an introduction to Haiti’s next wave of musical innovators and a reminder of the country’s enduring cultural power. 

Whether you’re already familiar with Haiti’s vibrant scene or just beginning to explore its sounds, these ten artists—handpicked by one of the country’s most influential musical ambassadors—offer a thrilling glimpse into the future of Haitian music.

"I first heard Durkheim’s music through his release 'Tous Ces Details.' It ended up becoming one of my favourite songs of 2023. His storytelling and lyricism are top notch and he flawlessly blends elements of R&B & pop throughout his project."

"Sarina’s release 'Olé' caught my ear last year for its unique combo of Konpa and R&B. She’s one of the new wave of artists bringing Haitian sounds to an English language audience and I think she has a very bright future ahead! The sky is the limit for this future pop star."

"Mebel’s vocal range is truly impressive and his song Siwo really stood out to me for its unique melody choices and songwriting."

"Fatima’s release Hello off her new project was one of the most viral songs of 2024 in Haiti. She’s been developing her sound for years and I’m really proud of how far she’s come as an artist. Keep an eye out for her!"

"Tafa’s stands at the intersection of tradition and modernity. Her releases incorporate influences of Rara and the Haitian traditional storytelling with production from across the diaspora, and her song Lakou perfectly captures that essence. Big fan of her work!"

"Teddy’s been making a lot of noise across Haiti over the past few months and his song Ki Moon Ou Ye with L Won encapsulates what makes him so special as a breakthrough songwriter and performer."

"The prince of Raboday. Andybeatz produced many of the biggest Raboday hits over the past few years, but he recently shifted focus on his new role as singer and artist. Check out Pachikita from his new album Banm Pase."

"Eyo’s song Lakou took off in 2023 and really captures the Haitian diaspora experience in a special way. The beat’s multicultural sounds weave back and forth from Rara to trap, and Eyo’s ability to switch on command between Kreyol and English really stand out."

"One of the breakthrough DJs from Cap Haitian, Haiti who is making waves in the international dance circuit. Manito’s song GOOD VIBES with Jeff Pierre and Paul Beaubrun exemplifies what make his shows and sound so special."

"Kingstreet's breakthrough project produced by veteran haitian producer Magic Touch, blends drill with rap Kreyol, and shows the extent of his lyricism and unique tone. Check out Alleluia to understand what his project is all about."

'Touchdown' is out now. 

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