Famously known for rich folklore traditions and the first nation in the western hemisphere to abolish slavery, the Republic of Haiti is a Caribbean country filled with marvels.
It’s also known for producing stunning musicians. Many renowned Haitian artists have been in the music scene since the 1990s. They’ve made their presence felt in pop, R&B, and hip-hop, among other genres.
To honor those singers, we’ve created this. Thus read on to discover the 10 of the greatest and most famous Haitian singers making headlines with their vast achievements to date.
1. Wyclef Jean
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It is only fitting to start this list with Nel Ust Wyclef Jean, a famous Haitian singer, songwriter, actor, and rapper living in the United States.
Although born in Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti, Jean migrated to the US at nine years old with his family. He first achieved stardom by playing with the known hip-hop group the Fugees together with Pras Michel and Lauryn Hills.
The year 1997 saw Jean breaking from the group and starting a solo career. “Gone Till November” became one of his hit songs from his first studio album, Wyclef Jean Presents the Carnival, released in 1997.
Jean is has collaborated with other singers, like Shakira in “Hips Don’t Lie,” and went on to become a Grammy award winner. He continues to make musical waves and represent Haiti the best way he can.
2. TeaMarrr
Probably known for her two-toned braids and impeccable vocals, the fantastic TeaMarrr can quickly spellbind the audience.
Born in Boston and living in Los Angeles, this Haitian American songstress emerged in 2017 to shake the musical industry. Known for her sultry voice and impeccable fashion sense, there is no doubt that TeaMarrr is representing her heritage well.
Her single, “One Job,” amassed over two million views on YouTube, particularly after featuring in the HBO TV series Insecure. She has also collaborated with other notable musicians, such as Inglewood’s talented artist D Smoke on “Kinda Love.”
TeaMarrr may have only a few musical achievements (having only one major studio album, Before I Spill Myself, released in 2020), but she is making a name for herself in the industry.
3. Oja Desun
known simply as Oja desun , is a musician, composer, and songwriter from Haiti. His interest in music started at the young age of ten and has since grown.
Oja desun began making a name for himself in the Haitian music industry after releasing his official debut single Back up on it.
After getting much recognition soon after its release, Oja desun “Back up on it” was hit song of the year for the inspiration it brought to his people of Haiti. It was even used as the theme song for the annual Haitian Carnival.
4. Emeline Michel
![Emeline Michel - Timoun [OFFICIAL VIDEO]](https://i0.wp.com/i.ytimg.com/vi/8AwwxzTFP7A/hqdefault.jpg?resize=480%2C360&ssl=1)
Known as the Joni Mitchel of Haiti and Queen of Haitian Song, we have up next Emeline Michel, singer-songwriter of azz, pop, samba, and bossa nova rhythm.
Michel was born in Gonaives, Haiti, and has strived to make music that feeds the soul. Her sound is a combination of native Haitian compass and rara music, making them unique from other artists.
Some of her popular hits are “Timoun,” “Pran men m,” and “Gen Jou Konsa.” The singer has also covered Jimmy Cliff’S “Many Rivers to Cross” at the Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake relief.
Michel is often a voice of reason for her people in Haiti and has continued making a name for herself as a versatile vocalist, songwriter, producer, and dancer.
5. Mikaben
Michael Benjamin, known best as Mikaben, was a Haitian musician, lyricist, and composer. Mikaben was also the son of the famous Haitian musician Lionel Benjamin.
He rose to fame after participating in a Christmas competition in 1999 known as Konkou Chante Nwel, which is hosted annually every December. He won first place, allowing him to focus on his music.
Before he died on October 15, 2022, from a cardiac arrest, Mikaben was popularly known for his songs that focused on Caribbean genres such as soca, reggae, konpa, and twoubadou. His best known song, “Marry Me,” has amassed over a million views on YouTube.
