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Emeline Michel, the diva of Haitian music
Emeline Michel, the diva of Haitian music
Emeline Michel, the diva of Haitian music

Emeline Michel, the diva of Haitian music

Emeline Michel was born on March 21, 1966 in Dubedou, a small town located in the 5th communal section of Gonaïves, the city of Haitian independence. Both a singer and composer, today her influence transcends and goes beyond the borders of Haïti and the French-speaking world.

After starting secondary studies at the Lycée Louis Diaquoi commonly known as the Lycée de jeunes filles des Gonaïves, she entered Port-au-Prince, at one point, to continue her studies at the Collège St Pierre de Port-au-Prince. It was in the Haitian capital, more precisely at the Baptiste de Bolosse church, that her talent was discovered and supported by religious leaders, who offered her scholarships to study music. It is his steps that will be the basis of his exceptional musical career, placing his name among the proudest Haitians and alongside the greatest names in Haitian music, such as Lionel Benjamin, Beethova Obas and Yole Dérose his mentor.

Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel

An Icon of International Renown

What Celine Dion is to Quebec, Emeline Michel is to Haiti. Emeline embodies Haitian feminine excellence in all its depth. Able to sing with ease in French and Haitian Creole, she remains one of the most listened to and recognized Haitian voices throughout the world. In Haiti, she is considered the most emblematic female figure in contemporary Haitian music. There are very few artists: painters, musicians or writers who have not been tempted by the idea of ​​paying tribute to her through their art. Decades after the beginning of her career, she is still among the most credible and loved voices in Haitian society.

Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel

First steps in music

Born to a pastor father and a merchant mother. Emeline began singing in church like the vast majority of Haitian artists. From a young age, she demonstrated an exceptional talent for music and singing. She remembers starting singing in church led by her pastor father, when she was not yet six years old. Her musical career truly began in the 80s, quickly captivating audiences with her powerful and captivating voice. And her original compositions blend traditional Haitian rhythms, the compas, and the rhythms of classical music with her melodious voice.

Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel

An Exceptional Discography

Emeline Michel has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, such as *Flanm*, *Rasin Kreyol* and *Reine de Cœur*. Her committed and poetic songs address universal themes such as love, social justice, women’s freedom and resilience. Songs like "A.K.I.K.O", "Gade papi", "Béni yo", "L’odeur de ma terre", "Mèsi lavi" and "Vant kòde" illustrate her stance against the injustices and difficulties experienced by Haitians, while offering messages of hope. Her successes are numerous and testify to her impact on Haitian music.

Emeline Michel, in exceptional concert in Miami
Emeline Michel, in exceptional concert in Miami

Emeline Michel, in exceptional concert in Miami

St. Clement Parish celebrates its seventy years of service to God and the Haitian community, this November 23, 2024, at 2975 N. Andrews Ave., Wilton Manors, FL. On the occasion of this celebration, Emeline Michel will be in exceptional concert to mark this cultural event. On the menu of this program, the committee plans to organize evangelization sessions, continuing education, fields of ethics, morality and spirituality. This event will also emphasize faith, reason and culture to rebuild in unity the kingdom of God here below where "Charity unites us to God". With the aim of raising culture to its peak, the Archbishop of Miami is pleased to join us for a great Eucharistic celebration on Saturday, November 23, 2024, starting at 10 a.m. Together, they will mark this mythical date engraved in the memory of his faithful and friends. This evening will be hosted by the icon of Haitian music, Emeline Michel, who has made a name for herself in the Haitian cultural landscape: "We welcome the famous singer Emeline Michel. She will do us the honor of reliving important and unforgettable moments of our charming land of Haiti. With her melodious, very captivating voice and her poetic songs, all the beautiful memories will be there, like our beaches, the light breeze of our mornings and the flight of capricious birds," wrote the press release. The 58-year-old diva continues to establish herself as one of the unique, contagious voices of Haitian music. While remaining in her style, she has been able to create her musical universe during her career, which has allowed her to be honored in the community by her fans. Emeline Michel, with her sincere lyrics and unique style, has managed to reach a wide audience without giving up her authenticity. With her songs and her melodious voice, she has rocked several generations. Throughout her musical career, she has an enriching repertoire, about thirteen albums to her credit, we can cite a few: Douvanjou ka leve (1987); Flanm (1989); Pa gen manti nan sa (1990); Rhum et Flamme (1993); Tout mon temps (1991); Emeline Michel, the very best (1994); Ban m pase (1996); Coedes and Soul (2001); Rasin Kreyòl (2004); Queen of Hearts (2007); Quintessence and lastly Gratitude (2015). She also has many collaborations with other artists. Chanjman and Jan mwen (2020, and 2021) Emeline Michel, 40 years of experience on stage, she carries all Haïti in her voice, her soul and her body. During her flourishing years of success, she has marked several continents where she has already performed (Antilles, America, Europe, Asia). This allowed her to discover several places, such as: Carnegie Hall, at the United Nations; the Teatro Manzoni in Milan; the Kravis Center in Florida; the International Jazz Festival (Haiti). Then, the Luminato Festival in Ontario; the International Jazz of Montreal; the New Orleans Jazz Fest; the Ten Days On The Island. The priest of the parish of St. Clement, Rev. Patrick Charles, took the opportunity to extend a warm invitation to the community to come celebrate this great day marking its seventieth anniversary and to entertain in order to once again highlight Haitian culture.

Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel
Emeline Michel

A Committed Woman

In addition to her internationally renowned musical career, Emeline Michel is an ardent promoter of Haitian culture throughout the world, her clothing style embodies that of an authentic Haitian. In addition, she uses her great fame to campaign for gender equality in Haitian society and in the rest of the world. Although she has not expressed direct criticism of a particular government, her songs are vigorous denunciations of the misfortunes that strike her beloved Haiti. She has participated in numerous international festivals, collaborated with world-renowned artists and supported humanitarian projects for Haiti, particularly after the powerful earthquake of January 12, 2010.

With her captivating voice, her charisma (which inspires everyone’s respect), her commitment to the development of women and Haitian culture, Emeline Michel remains and continues to be a perpetual source of inspiration for young girls in Haiti. Her music, full of love and hope, reflects the colors and richness of her native land, making her a permanent ambassador of Haitian music.

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About the Author
Moise Francois
Moise Francois
Moise Francois

Journalist editor, poet and apprentice lawyer.

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History

History

First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Heritage

Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culture

Culture

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.

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