Haitian Labor Day Fest 2018: An Amazing Day Of Culture
- Rhyvah Cantave
- Sep 6, 2018
- 3 min read
Were you guys ready for this year's Haitian Labor Day Fest at Eisenhower Park? Well Venus International Productions and Madame Gougouse presented an impeccable line-up that was hard to pass up. As you can see from the above picture, Granny and everybody was getting down.
An event dedicated to celebrating the 50th Anniversary of "Tabou Combo"'s contribution to the culture and the chance to win $10,000 for the best performance.
Each Artist/band had the chance of creating a rendition of their favorite Tabou song. The Haitian Labor Day Fest was hosted by "DISIP"'s band-founder, Gazzman Couleur (former singer of Nu-Look & D-Zine). It was an amazing choice for someone who has been in the HMI (Haitian Music Industry) for over two decades.
By kicking off the festival with young group "Enposib" followed by Red, it's showing the youth the beauty within the culture through music. The youths are the future, and as Tabou Combo has 50 years in existence, there has been and will be unlimited new bands formed to continue the legacy.
Then, Michael Guirand brought out the incredible "VAYB" that the audience needed. Michael and Gazzman were joking on the stage about the $10, 000 prize for best performer. Michael reassured the host that he was definitely competing for the money. Very Funny!
Michael Guirand and Gazzman Couleur Joking on Stage about $10, 000 Prize
The group Zenglen represented with a great performance as usual. Couleur made sure that Zenglen's maestro Brutus' contribution to the new generation of musician was recognized.
Former Haitian president Michel "Sweet Micky" Martelly was in attendance and his presence was surely felt. Despite the current politics, his performance was nothing short of the character that we are use to. Let's just say he gave the fans his show.
It was a pleasure to experience KAI with eye candy Richard Cavé as the band showcased his appreciation as well for the Veteran group. Female singer Anie Alerte also joined the band to serenade the crowd Tabou Combo-style. It was amazing!
No matter what, Djakout Mizik brought the crowd to an insanity state with its upbeat grooves. The masses were wowed when Djakout randomly brought out two young girls (10-12 year old) to share some dance moves on stage. I know these two girls will never forget this moment.
Moreover, the band "Gabel" came to play and kept its promise "Yes". Unbelievable, artist "Chiwawa" hyped up the park with his one-song performance unique style of delivery.
Without a doubt, Roody Roodboy came in with his vibrant energy and kept the crowd with hands in the air during his entire set. Performing his controversial 2018 kanaval track "Ou Mechan", his fans were truly engaged due to the factual content Haiti currently faces.
Throughout this entire night, nothing was more exciting than Arly Lariviere (from the band "Nu-Look") reuniting with his former band mate, Gazzman, after such a long period of separation. The public was hysterically happy!
Arly Lariviere and Gazzman Couleur reunited at Haitian Labor Day Fest. Video: Guy Wewe Radio
However, not all scheduled band got to have a chance to perform. I know that T Joe Zenny wasn't pleased at all. He is one of the best entertainers and competitors in the HMI. Also, "Klass" and "Harmonik" did not have the gratification to honor Tabou as you know Maestro Richie and Nickenson Prud'homme are very found of the past masters.
From behind the scenes, the president of Konpa alias Sweet Micky was being blamed for the lateness that caused the delay in time. Micky's "I Don't Care" mentality has always been under scrutiny of the media and sometimes his fans. Nonetheless, Micky vouched to do as he pleases and he reaffirmed that during his act on stage, and his fans backed him up. I truly don't know what people expected other than Sweet Micky.
Sweet Micky warned media and fans during Haitian Labor Day Fest Press Conference.
Nevertheless, this program was an amazing program--filled with amazing music and people. There were vendors of different cultural representations: from food to arts. A lot of media personalities such as Carel Pedre, Guy Wewe and Rigolo traveled from Haiti to be part of this grandiose event. In addition Union 9 TV, Kompa Magazine, RVC, and other network were present to document.
After this year, Haitian Labor Day Fest has claimed the New York area when it comes to Haitian Festivals. Once a marketing with a higher purpose is planned perfectly, there will always be success. The festival was indeed a great success and KZ PROMO INC is delighted for being part of such an amazing function.
See you next year! Bring your whole family and friends!
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