Music
November 7, 2018
Don’t Miss “Tout Moun Jwen” Kompa Original Radio’s Hottest Thursday Show! (Watch Now)
I came across Chantal and found her intriguing and just had to dig deeper to find out who exactly is this woman behind the microphone. Chantal Laventure aka Chantoutou is no stranger to entertainment and also the French Caribbean Community. Chantou has been doing radio as early as her “High School” days on Radio Tropical with Arios Dennis whom first discovered her voice. Arios Dennis brought her aboard his teenage talk show bringing awareness to the community. Chantou was part of a teenage panel responsible for bringing awareness to teenage issues within the community. The informative talk show was successful and came to an end when everyone upon the panel became young adults enrolled in college.
Chantal’s next challenge was television, she started her own musical talk show “Live Wire” featuring interviews with artist and upcoming artist of the Caribbean. “What was Live Wire like? Chantou answered “Well you never knew what I was going to do next. I could be at a festival or I could be having drinks at South Beach with an artist with a snake around my neck or on a yacht enjoying the scenery learning what the mine set was behind the lyrics to a newly released single. I loved it and I wanted to take this show to the next level and represent the French Caribbean on a major network.
Later Chantal received an invitation to host her own musical show on Radio Tropical. Chantou has sense returned to the airwaves and revamped her show “Tout Moun Jwen” which airs Live on Kompa Original Radio and Facebook.
“What was your experience like on Radio Tropical”? Chantou: “It was definitely different the second time around. Luckly I already had the experience preparing for a show. I didn’t want to do radio. I had to sit down in one spot. I thought that would be boring. Edens Debas and Patrick Jules had to convince me and finally I accepted. It was the best experience and I would’ve regret it if I didn’t take the chance. I was in between Bob Lemoine and Guy Ford, both whom I respect dearly. How many people can say they had the honor to sit in the same chair as these two on the number one radio at that time. Monday -Friday 4-6pm I was responsible for the content of this show. I was in between two heavy weights. Jacques the engineer was like a father and thought me the majority of what I know of radio. I had no competition I had to be able to stand tall next to these two. I am blessed to say I was heavily coached by the best and today I can walk into any studio and navigate it, not to many women can do that and I am proud of it. In matter of fact that’s what sets me apart in this male dominated industry.”
When asked Chantou, “Tout Moun Jwen toady and then what is the difference? What exactly is the idea behind this musical show? Chantou answered: “Tout Moun Jwen, then I constantly had guest on my show at the station, for some reason it’s difficult now. With social media some artist insist want I come to them. For the studio experience I raised the bar by making it fun for me and entertaining for my audience with surprise guest. Before you ask I am not a DJ I am a Radio & TV Personality and I turned this show into musical appreciation class. I am the host and entertainment, I take away your stress for a while with humor, great music and ambiance”. The difference then there were no cameras today i’m live on social media so I take advantage of that and I bring awareness to artist musical groups promoters and their events”.
“What are your plans for the future”? Chantou answered with a smile, “Hmmm 2019 let’s raise the bar higher. This year I am gong to work harder and accomplish more. I’m the best kept secret with lots of tricks up my sleeve. I will give you some news I am returning to television and I am going to do it big as I always do and did I plan on being one among many whom will give Haiti a positive image. That’s all I am going to say for now. Watch me follow me on social media @kompaoriginal on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and see what I do next trust me it’s going to be insane.”
Written by Loyd Jean-Charles
September 24, 2018
Fairwell “Belle Kord” aka Kevin Guippe
Saturday September 15, 2018 Belle Kord aka Kevin Guippe sadly announced to his fans at a live performance in West Palm Beach Florida that he would be leaving Klass. Kevin made the overall announcement his last week during rehearsal to his band mates that he would be leaving the band due to financial obligations to his family. Although he is a musician first he is a Father, which has taken priority over his musical career. Kevin Guippe has expressed that he has missed several birthdays and family occasions due to him being on the road with Klass. Kevin has been with the band since 2012 and was a valuable member musically with his distinguished attributes as a guitarist. Hence how he got his nickname “Belle Kord” (translated in English “Beautiful Strings”)
Since “Belle Kord’s” announcement of leaving the music industry it has struck many conversations within the HMI such as ”How is the pay”?, “Is there health and life insurance”? , “Is it profitable as musician or artist in the HMI”? and “Can a musician’s salary pay his or her bills”? There have been many debates on this topic prior, however with a successful band such as Klass the topic has resurfaced. The HMI has produced many successful musicians in the public eye such at Sweet Micky, T-Vice, Wycleff Jean, Dadou Pasquet, Yves Joseph of Tabou, Combo, Fabrice Rouzier, Edie Francois and Beethova Obas to name just a few that have made successful living as Haitian musicians. When you view the success of these artists it brings up the question “Is Management really looking out for their Artist”?
Sad to say quietly we have heard sad stories such as “Go Fund Me” being created as a supplement to assist artist medical needs. Recently this past March of 2018 Yole Derose is an example of this case after she was announced with Myeloma with AL Amyloidosis, an immune and a blood disorder. Which brought up several questions and again went quiet.
Friday September 21, 2018 Klass appeared Live on stage at Brasserie Creole in Cambria Heights, NY without Belle Kord. Although Kevin’s presence wasn’t on stage His bandmates carried out a great performance with out him and he was deeply missed by his fans. It will be hard for someone to fill in the shoes of Kevin Guippe. Perhaps Belle Kord will make surprise guest appearances. In the meantime with “El Pozo” present Klass can continue to say “Klass It IS Baby”! Perhaps Belle Kord will make quest appearances, one can only hope. Kompa Original wishes Belle Kord luck and success in his next endeavours in addition to his life legacy.
September 18, 2018
OG Studios Rockland Count’s Hidden Secret (Continued…)
Two months ago Kompa Original had the pleasure of sitting down with Emanuel Bouget Michel owner and spokesperson of OG Studios. 5 Months ago was the “Grand Opening” before they officially opened their doors to the public. In the meantime OG Studios has been working on projects with their artist for a little over a year.
When Kompa Original asked Bouget, “How“OG Studios come up with the name”? Bouget replied “OG Studios is named after Roland Louis-Jean Kassique’s Dad. He was a great man and the head of our family and responsible for helping the family migrate to the United Stated from Haiti. His Co-workers gave him the nickname “OG” whenever he was called OG he would smile and the name stuck with him and the family started calling him OG as well. Our family will always be forever grateful so in his honor we named the studio after him”.
Although there are three owners when you say OG Studios The to go person is Bouget? Kompa Original asked Bouget “Who exactly is Bouget”? Unto which he replied, “A lot of people think Bouget is a nickname. My name is Emanuel Bouget Michel. I have other brother and sisters however my father told me when I was born everything fell into place and that is how I got the name Bouget. When it comes to business everything I do is successful so I am well known by many as Bouget. “
Kompa Original asked Bouget How did he get into music? Bouget replied with a huge smile that reached from ear to ear. “Music is in my soul. I started music at the age of 13. We started a group named Maximum Raga in Haiti. I wrote a lot of the songs. This is where my love for song writing began. “Nan Ou Mem” was one of our hits. My uncle Sergo Louis Jean former musician of “Rosinyiol nwa” de Port-au-prince and guitarist of Coupe Claude gave us our first push by playing guitar on our first single. We were good, when I look back I am happy but disappointed we could have been successful if we all took it seriously and had the proper management. Rap Kreyol was in its prime and we would’ve been pioneers by now.”
“I used to be a sound engineer because of my uncle association with music the Sound of Engineers of his band used to teach me and train me and put me to work since I was going to hang around. I learned a lot from them and developed an ear for music. I can listen to a track of any genre and tell you if it will be a hit. ‘
Last Kompa Original asked Bouget “What are your plans for OG Studio’s Bouget answered, “My plans for OG Studio’s is to be a major contributor in the music industry producing meaningful music. Music has lost its values through out the years, the sound is the same and some of the lyrics don’t make any sense. With the experience of my partners and I, we will produce great music. Our future is bright watch out for us I am sure you will see us in the audience at the Grammy’s first OG Studio’s next OG Tunes.”
September 18, 2018
Michel Martelly performs LIVE in New York at “The Space”
Michel Martelly aka Sweet Micky performed Live on stage at the space after Chez Mirelle canceled the performance after numerous calls from individuals threatening to vandalize the Restaurant/Night Club on Friday August 31, 2018. Michel Martelly former President of Haiti performances are always a treat since he has returned back into his musical character Sweet Micky. In front of the Space Michel Martelly fans were greeted by a small group of 15 protesters whom quietly came to exercise the first amendment and make their voices heard with the freedom of speech asking the famous question of the moment “Where is Petro Karaibe’s Money? Kote kob Petro Karibe? The protest lasted about a hour and a half.
Once you entered the Space you were greeted by Michel Martelly’s distinguished voice singing on stage. A voice Haitian music was deprived of for 5yrs while he was President of Haiti. Martelly’s performances before and after politics are truly a tribute to Compas Music, while he plays music from his repertoire and legendary bands that have had a key role in Compas such as Tropicana, Skah Shah, Scorpio, Zeklé, Shelu Sleu and Tabou Combo to name a few. Roger Eugene aka Shoubou of Tabou Combo surprised Michel Martelly on stage while he was performing one of Skah Shah’s hits. Michel was so happy to see Shoubou, he performed a potpourri of Tabou Combo’s music as a tribute to Tabou Combo whom is celebrating their 50yr Anniversary. The two sang and joked on stage while fans laughed and sang a long. It was truly a memorable performance. If you missed Michel Martelly’s performance stay tuned for his next tour dates…
July 16, 2018
James Cardoza Leaves Tvice after 26yrs
James Cadoza announced Friday July 16, 2018 his immediate departure from T-Vice on his Social Media Page. James Cardoza was Original member whom had a strong role in the band. James played the keytar while singing. Cardoza made a strong musical contribution to Tvice for the past 26yrs. Kompa Original is sad to announce after 26 yrs James Cardoza has chosen to depart from Tvice and would like to Thank James cardoza for his musical contribution to the HMI. Farewell James Cardoza we wish you blessing, success and happiness on your future journey.
July 16, 2018
Harmonik’s Cap-Haitien August 10, 2018 performance CANCELED
Feu Vert Night Club owned by Septentrional in Cap-Haitien has opened its doors to many bands and artist to perform on their stage. Harmonik has recently released a press release to media and their fans stating their August 10, 2018 performance has been canceled. What makes the cancelation interesting is that Klass and Harmonik both claim they are booked for the same date. For the sake of the fans the showmanship thing to do would have both bands perform on the same stage. Klass’ camp has made it clear that they would take no part in sharing the stage that day. In matter of fact they have pushed full force in promoting the show for that date. Harmonik’s camp received many threats due to their safety they felt they were left with no choice but to cancel their performance rewarding the stage to Klass.
Rico Piere-Louis confirmed in an interview with Evans, Kompa Events Harmonik was officially booked by Feu Vert Night Club on August 10, 2018 with a paid deposit. Flyers, Posters and Bilboards have been seen all over the streets of Cap-Haitien showing otherwise Klass is performing August 10, 2018 at Feu Vert Night Club. Rico states he is frustrated that Klass’ Camp is tried to strong arm the night club due to the band having roots in Cap-Haitien. Rico called Ritchie of Klass and informed him that Harmonik was booked for the date. Ritchy informed Rico regardless of Harmonik having the date at Feu Vert Night Club the band has to have a performance on August 10, 2018. Rico expressed to Ritchy that he would prefer that the band play at Feu Vert Night club and could do so if the band either changes the date or share the stage with Harmonik. Rico called Harmonik’s Management after trying to see if a date change would be possible keeping the bands planed performance at Feu Vert Night Club. Harmonik’s Management informed Rico a date change wouldn’t be possible due to their set dates for their summer tour. The question now asked is are the two bands at a musical polemic war?
To be continued…
July 16, 2018
To Be a King or Not To Be., To be a King or a Fallen Star…
Many genres of music has royalty. Rock and Roll has Elvis Presley as the King. James Brown is the King of Soul and Aretha Franklin is the Queen. Michael Jackson is the King of Pop, Bob Marley the King of Reggae, Tito Puente is the all time Mambo King, Joseito Mateo the King of Merengue held that title until his death. Daddy Yankee and Don Omar are the Kings of Reggaeton and. Last Prince Royce is the Prince of Bachata to throw a few headliner names that are well known internationally to name a few.
Compas we allegelly have Arly Lariviere as the King of Compas. Many have asked what musical committee was his royalty status rewarded from. Although Arly Lariviere is a brilliant pianist the status of “King” may be premature. Arly can however be compared to Elton John. Arly Lariviere has traveled the world and has the recognition internationally to stand on the platform as a brilliant Pianoist and no one will question his abilities except for Ansyito, Fabrice Rouzier and Joe Jacques to name a few.
Royalty status is given when you have reached musical plateaus and prestige that many can’t reach and perhaps may never reach in their lifetime. Therefore you become an example and a standard for many to follow for years and generations to come. Lately the past couple of months Lariviere has displayed the attributes of just another musician compared to a King. A king of any genre of music is humble he knows his thrown comes from the people and goes out of his way each performance to show his musical kingdom that he has owned the right to be the king.
NYC / NJ we have witnessed the opposite of Arly. The King was spotted stumbling on stage due to much alcohol intake. Lariviere has shown up to several scheduled shows late. Recently Sunday June 15, 2018 Lariviere showed up late and was left at the Pier. The Yacht returned an Hour and forty mintues after departure. This has brought much attention to his character as a musician and has many stating that the King should be stripped of his crown until further notice. Instead of apologizing and giving an outstanding performance for his latte arrival to Pier 40, the King allowed his entourage to sing with him on stage. It was toture like watching an episode of Kareokee with the Stars. Wait a minute that show does not exist.
Hence “The King “ after went on several social media platforms and bragged about the boat returning for him. Actually the boat returned to keep the peace. No one wants to be aboard a crowded ship with unhappy guest, it might escalate into a riot. You just can’t walk off a boat and go home as you would a venue. The fans have reported to Kompa Original “The King” has become very arrogant. The fans feel his attitude has made him unapproachable. Thus with his negative publicity many have asked how did he inquire his status and wants his crown and title to be stripped and effective immediately. Arly Lariviere just may be able to redeem his thrown. Luckily his band NU Look preforms exceptional each time which makes up for the several faux pas of “The King” However if the band overthrows the Maestro that will be the end of NU Look and the King. The King would now gain the title of “Fallen Star”
April 19, 2018
Vyab Album is out of the lab and available this Friday.
The wait is finally over and the fans can hold their CD in their hand or now with technology purchase and download their copy through iTunes or Google Play. As a new band Vyab faced pressure from the fans and the HMI to release an album. Vyab has been traveling the world since summer and building their fan base performing in major festivals. However that hasn’t stopped critics from critiquing the band from in the beginning stating that they shouldn’t be touring without an album. It’s hard to see the depth and quality of a band without a “Studio Album” present.
Michael Guirrand had a major role in Carimi. his voice was associated with many songs in Carimi’s repertoire. Carimi fans have been eager for a Vyab album to be released to compare the two bands Carimi and Vyab as fans did with Kai and Carimi Not to mention Shedley Abraham of Vyab has had great success producing many volumes of Djazz La albums with several artist of the industry. Many are awaiting to see if Vyab will have any guest artist on its first album. The wait and the suspense is over. April 20, 2018 Vyab will release its albums for the industry and shock the world and their fans with their creativity. #VyabGO
