By Dessalines Ferdinand
There is no doubt about it: Sounds of Little Haiti is a signature event that keeps Haitian culture alive in the central neighborhood of the South Florida community at a time when gentrification is pushing Haitians away from the area. Held every third Friday of the month at the Little Haiti Cultural Center, this event is a prime rendezvous for the Haitian community to gather and enjoy the sounds of their beloved compas and rara rhythms. The May edition is particularly special, as it attracts the largest audience, coinciding with the Haitian flag celebration.
Last night’s lineup (Friday, May 17) was very impressive, featuring two bands with successful histories in the Haitian compas music industry: Tabou Combo, with 56 years of experience, and Mizik Mizik, with 40 years. Both bands were founded in Pétion-Ville, a once-charming suburb.
As the sun began to set, Little Haiti came alive with the sounds of laughter, music, and the sizzling of traditional Haitian food being prepared. Families, young professionals, and elders alike gathered in the central neighborhood, drawn by the promise of an evening filled with cultural pride, camaraderie, and retrouvailles.
The allure of the event lies in its ability to transcend social and economic barriers. Here, the community mingles freely, sharing stories and dances. Young Haitian-Americans wave their Haitian flags with pride, while vendors offer a tantalizing array of Haitian delicacies, from griot and fried plantains to patties and sweet treats. “Pate Kode” (fried Haitian patties) was the best-selling Haitian food at the event, according to observations by Le Floridien.
Expecting a large crowd, the organizers had the brilliant idea of creating a new setup for the event. They brought in a big stage and moved the event to the parking lot across to the center’s podium. The backdrop of the podium was illuminated with a big screen displaying the sponsors of the event, including Le Floridien. This phenomenal job, handled by Pondamixx Productions, made the scene more appealing to the audience. Their foresight paid off, as more than two thousand music lovers showed up to celebrate Haitian Flag Weekend. Attendees were able to bring their own chairs and move freely as they enjoyed the outdoor event. Some who chose not to pay for seats in the large VIP sections created their own VIP areas to have fun with friends and family.
The two legendary bands, Mizik Mizik and Tabou Combo, delivered outstanding performances that left the audience in awe. With decades of musical excellence under their belts, these bands brought their best to the stage, playing hit after hit that resonated deeply with the crowd. Mizik Mizik, celebrating 40 years, captivated the audience with their unique blend of rhythms and melodies, while Tabou Combo, with 56 years of history, electrified the atmosphere with their timeless compas beats. The synergy between the bands and the audience created an unforgettable night, showcasing the enduring talent and cultural significance of these iconic groups. Their performances not only entertained but also reinforced the rich musical heritage of the Haitian community.
You could tell that the musicians of Mizik Mizik were thrilled to be on stage, reconnecting with the generation that grew up with their music during the band’s prime in the 1990s. It was fascinating to see people in their 50s and 60s reliving their youth, checking out the dance vibes with the same energy and enthusiasm they had years ago. Some women even danced with their sons, creating a beautiful intergenerational moment that showcased the timeless appeal of Mizik Mizik’s music. The event was a heartwarming reminder of the band’s enduring impact and the joy that their music continues to bring across generations.
Tabou Combo was wise in taking the time to select new singers to join the band. The new lead singer Patrick Noel, better known as Papito and a former member of Septentrional, has done an excellent job of filling the role of retired singer Roger Monfort Eugene, aka Shoubou. He keeps the band alive with the assistance of veterans like Yvon ‘Kapi’ Andre, Jean Claude Jean, and Yves Joseph, aka ‘Fanfan Tibot.’
Tabou Combo electrified the audience with their best hits, including some classic tracks from the ’80s and ’90s. The band’s dynamic performance kept everyone dancing and singing along, demonstrating their enduring appeal and the powerful connection they have with their fans.
During this May edition, Mecca, aka Grimo, the host of this traditional event, was recognized for his outstanding support of Haitian culture. Everyone agrees that when it wasn’t popular to be Haitian in America, Grimo reinstated Haitian pride through his music and poetry. His first single, “Ayisien,” was a Creole remix of an American rap song that gained major rotation on mainstream radio. Since then, Grimo has been publicized as the poster icon for the Hip Hop Creole Movement. There is no doubt about it; this recognition is well-deserved.
Rara Lakay made their presence felt, as they always do, closing the event with an electrifying performance in the streets of Little Haiti. As the last band to animate the audience, they brought a surge of energy and excitement that resonated through the crowd. The infectious beats of their traditional Rara music filled the air, prompting spontaneous dancing and joyful celebrations. Their vibrant, rhythmic procession turned the streets into a lively carnival. The event would not be complete without Rara Lakay’s spirited finale, a highlight that everyone looks forward to each month.
Sounds of Little Haiti brought out all types of personalities, including those who usually prefer to stay at home. This Friday night was a true retrouvailles, a reunion where old friends and distant relatives reconnected. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as people who rarely ventured out found themselves mingling with others, sharing stories, and creating new memories. The event became a melting pot of diverse characters, from the reserved to the outgoing, all united by the joy of being part of a community celebration. This rare gathering fostered a sense of belonging and reminded everyone of the strength and unity within their culture.
If you missed this May edition of Sounds of Little Haiti, you missed a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends. Make sure you don’t miss out next year!
