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🎙️ The English side of Chokarella
🔊 Music • Culture • Stories from Haiti & the Diaspora
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Francis Mercier @francismercier celebrated the release of his first studio album, “Lakay”, with a launch party in New York on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Based on photos and videos shared online, the event took place at the Marquee Skydeck on the 100th floor of Edge at Hudson Yards, more than 340 meters above Manhattan. Originally planned outdoors, the party was moved inside because of bad weather on the U.S. East Coast.The event sold out days before it happened. Francis Mercier took over the decks alongside DJ Dean Mickoski, while Haitian-American singer Rebecca Zama joined him on stage to perform, including their collaboration "U&I." After the show, she shared moments from the night on her social media.Released on July 14, 2026, “Lakay” — which means "home" in Haitian Creole — features 20 tracks inspired by Mercier's journey between Haiti and the international electronic music scene. Born in the United States and raised in Port-au-Prince until he was 18, the producer blends Afro House with Caribbean and Haitian influences.The album includes collaborations with Wyclef Jean and Nigerian singer Kah-Lo on "Take Me Home," Malian duo Amadou & Mariam on "Halala," a remix of Robin S.'s classic "Show Me Love," and "Champagne," featuring North African producer Massala and London vocalist LexBlaze. Artists from different backgrounds add to the project's global sound.With “Lakay”, Francis Mercier continues to mix Haitian musical roots with electronic production, creating tracks for both dance floors and more reflective moments. His sound combines live instruments, vocals and electronic arrangements while staying connected to his Haitian identity.The New York launch follows a busy year for the producer, who performed at Milan's San Siro Stadium in April 2026 and continues his summer Solèy residency at Hï Ibiza in Spain. The album reflects his goal of connecting Haitian culture with the global electronic music scene.#Lakay #AfroHouse #HaitianMusic #NYC by @chokarella_en

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Even before its official release on streaming platforms, “Frechè” had already started making rounds on social media. After several days of teasing, Niko @nikobayplezi and Steves J. Bryan @stevesjbryan released their first collaboration on Thursday, July 23, bringing together two artists with different backgrounds who have both been active in Haiti’s urban music scene for several years.The song was released at midnight on streaming platforms through TuneCore, including Spotify and Apple Music. A few hours later, at 7 p.m. Haiti time, the music video directed by Sardou Mercilus was released on YouTube, adding a visual dimension to the collaboration. The video also features @josielentner as the model, bringing an additional presence to the visual storytelling of the song.The project comes at a time when Niko continues to develop his solo career. After Enposib, the group where he gained wider recognition, came to an end, the singer has released several songs and explored different musical styles. He is now building a new chapter in his career outside the group that introduced him to a larger audience.For his part, Steves J. Bryan continues to grow within Haitian Creole rap. The artist has been releasing collaborations and developing his own catalog, with a style influenced by urban sounds and the codes of rap music.“Frechè” is part of a series of releases by Niko over the past year. In April 2025, he released “M Anvi Kole,” followed by “Ou pa anvi m ankò” in November of the same year, with an accompanying music video. In January 2026, he continued with “Vin Jwenn Mwen,” before returning a few months later with “Li Se,” a track presented as the fourth part of a larger project focused on different social and political realities in Haiti.With “F rechè,” Niko and Steves J. Bryan are joining their musical worlds for the first time. The collaboration highlights the connections that can exist between Haitian Creole rap and other forms of urban music. As both artists continue their individual journeys, listeners will now see whether this first release leads to more projects together in the future.#Frechè #HaitianMusic by @chokarella_en

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For her master’s program at The New School in New York, Haitian filmmaker and feminist activist Pascale Solages @pascale_solages directed her first documentary, “Born to Dance. Forced to Run”. The film follows Steven Labady, a Haitian dancer forced to leave his country, to explore migration through exile, identity, and the role of art in the lives of migrants. It will have its world premiere on July 25, 2026, at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum in New York.The documentary tells the story of Steven Labady @steevenlabady, a young Haitian dancer who left Haiti because of insecurity. His journey takes him from the Dominican Republic to refugee camps in Germany, then Switzerland, before reaching the United States. Throughout this difficult path, dance remains a key part of his identity and his connection to his homeland.In an interview with AyiboPost, Pascale Solages explains the importance of culture for migrant communities. “Music, dance, or sports are things migrants hold on to because they keep a connection with their country. They bring us together,” she says. She also recalls the emotional challenges of filming with Steeven Labady, whose memories of exile sometimes made interviews difficult to complete.The idea for the documentary began as a university project at The New School before becoming a feature-length film combining archives, testimonies, and choreography. To shape the visual story, Solages worked with Haitian journalist and cinematographer Ralph Thomassaint Joseph. The production is led by VOICES Productions, with the participation of Guerline Jozef from Haitian Bridge Alliance and the Little Haiti BK collective.The film also comes at a time of renewed debates about Haitian migration in the United States. Recent decisions affecting Temporary Protected Status (TPS) have raised concerns among hundreds of thousands of Haitian nationals living in the country. Through her work, Solages wants to show migration beyond statistics and documents, focusing instead on the human experiences behind these journeys.#BornToDanceForcedToRun#HaitianCinema#HaitianMigration#HaitiDiaspora by @chokarella_en

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Franco-Haitian singer @naika continues to release new versions of her songs. On July 16, 2026, she shared a new version of “One Track Mind,” a track from her album “Eclesia,” featuring Canadian-Colombian artist Jessie Reyez @jessiereyez.The collaboration gives the song a different direction, mixing sounds and languages. The two artists move between English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, reflecting their different cultural backgrounds and musical influences.The connection between the two artists started on stage in Montreal. Earlier in July, Naïka invited Jessie Reyez to join her during the Montreal International Jazz Festival at Place des Festivals, where they performed “One Track Mind” together.That live performance came before the release of their studio version. After sharing the song with the Quebec audience, the two singers decided to release their recorded collaboration.On this new version, Jessie Reyez adds her vocals and songwriting style while Naïka keeps the main elements of “One Track Mind.” Haitian Creole remains an important part of the track, continuing Naïka’s work around her roots and musical influences.This release is the second official rework of “One Track Mind.” Before this version, Naïka released “One Track Mind Part II” with French-Caribbean artist Kalash. The version featuring Jessie Reyez is now available on major music streaming platforms.#Naika#JessieReyez#OneTrackMind#Eclesia#MontrealJazzFestival#HaitianMusic by @chokarella_en

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At 17, Izadorah Lapierre will officially represent Haiti during the operational phase of the international ShakthiSAT mission. The young student was selected to take part in this space technology initiative, which brings together thousands of girls from different countries for a satellite project planned for lunar orbit on October 11, 2026.The selection is part of a global program led by the Indian organization Space Kidz India. ShakthiSAT aims to develop scientific payloads designed by participants from 108 countries, with the goal of encouraging more young girls to get involved in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).Before joining this mission, Izadorah Lapierre had already participated in several technology-related projects. She served as communications lead for Haiti’s robotics delegation, supported by STEM Educáre, during the international FIRST Global Challenge robotics competition.“Congratulations, Izadorah! We can’t wait to see you inspire the world while proudly carrying the Haitian flag. Together, we’re proving that Haitian talent has no limits. 🇭🇹✨,” wrote @educarehaiti on its Instagram page. Izadorah Lapierre is a member of the organization.As part of ShakthiSAT, more than 108 Haitian teenage girls completed a 120-hour online training program focused on space technologies. After this preparation, Izadorah was chosen to represent Haiti’s group during the final integration phase of the project. She will be accompanied by Sarah Foucauld, the official STEM ShakthiSAT ambassador in Haiti.Supported by India’s space sector, including IN-SPACe and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), ShakthiSAT brings together nearly 12,000 young girls from 108 countries. The satellite launch is scheduled for October 11, 2026, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in India, aboard a PSLV rocket, on the same day as the International Day of the Girl Child.#HaitiToSpace#ShakthiSAT#HaitianYouth#STEMEducation#SpaceTechnology by @chokarella_en

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A few weeks after taking part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Grenadiers are set to return to the top level of Concacaf football. The draw for the 2026-2027 Nations League, scheduled for July 23, will reveal Haiti’s next opponents.The Haitian Football Federation (FHF) announced in a statement published on Monday, July 20, 2026, that the official draw for the 2026-2027 Concacaf Nations League will take place on Thursday, July 23.This new edition will mark Haiti’s return to League A, a promotion earned after a strong campaign in the previous League B tournament. “After a good League B campaign that helped Haiti return to League A, the Grenadiers will resume competition against the region’s top teams, just a few weeks after their participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” the FHF said.The July 23 draw will reveal the teams that Haiti will face during this new continental campaign.In its statement, the federation also called on supporters to continue backing the Grenadiers as they prepare for this new challenge. “Let’s continue to support our national team as it gets ready to take on a new challenge on the continental stage,” the Haitian football governing body concluded.#HaitiFootball #Grenadiers #ConcacafNationsLeague #Haiti2026 #FootballHaiti by @chokarella_en

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Klass @klassitis_ has announced new details about its 15th anniversary concert, set for November 14, 2026, at the MGM Music Hall at Fenway in Boston. The event, titled "KLASS XV | KONPA DIREK LIVE & LOUD," will celebrate the band's 15-year journey and its place in modern Konpa music.In a post published on its official website, the group looked back on its career and thanked fans who have supported them over the years. "For fifteen years, KLASS has delivered great music, discipline, talent, and unforgettable moments that have shaped a generation of Konpa fans around the world," the band wrote.Klass says the concert will focus entirely on its musical identity. The band promises a show dedicated to 100% Konpa Dirèk, with no hybrid concepts or other musical styles. "No orchestra. No hybrid concepts. No jazz style. No distractions. Just 100% Konpa Dirèk played the way it should be," the group said.The band also highlighted its career, pointing to sold-out concerts and hit songs that helped build its reputation in the Konpa industry over the past 15 years.Fans are expected to travel from Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Canada, Florida, Haiti, and other places to attend the celebration. According to the group, the night will bring together supporters from across the diaspora for a live concert featuring fan favorites, classic songs, and a full Konpa Dirèk experience.With this anniversary concert, Klass hopes to celebrate another milestone while reaffirming its commitment to Konpa Dirèk, a style the band continues to promote in Haiti and across the Haitian diaspora.#KlassXV #KlassLive #KonpaDirek #HaitianMusic #BostonConcert by @chokarella_en

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The double save made by Johny Placide @johny_placide against Morocco has been selected by the BBC as one of the nominees for the best save of the 2026 World Cup. The Haitian goalkeeper is among the players chosen after his performance in the Grenadiers’ final match of the tournament.How to vote for Johny Placide?Haitian supporters can take part in the BBC vote to choose the “Save of the Tournament,” which rewards the best save of the 2026 World Cup.To vote:• Open the BBC selection link: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cdxd1pq4nrko• Choose the “Save of the Tournament” category• Select Johny Placide• Confirm your vote.#JohnyPlacide#HaitiFootball#WorldCup2026#Grenadiers#FootballWorldCup by @chokarella_en

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Haitian-born singer and songwriter Oswald Clerveus @oswaldsxm released his new single “Karma” on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. Known for blending konpa, zouk, R&B and soul, the artist continues his musical journey with a track focused on the aftermath of a romantic breakup.The song tells the story of someone who chooses not to seek revenge after being hurt by a former partner. Through lyrics filled with disappointment and emotional distance, Oswald explores the process of moving on while dealing with the consequences of a painful separation.Built around the idea of karma as a form of natural justice, the track follows a character who leaves a relationship for someone else and eventually faces the results of that decision. The song mixes a rhythmic production with themes of betrayal, regret and personal recovery.Oswald first gained public attention after winning the Le Défi Lycéen competition in Guadeloupe in 2007. Over the years, he has become a recognized voice in the konpa and zouk scenes, with songs such as “Solo,” “Tourner le dos,” “T’en aller” and tracks from his 2024 album Oxygen helping expand his audience across the Caribbean, Europe and North America.With “Karma,” the artist continues to develop a sound built around energetic melodies and memorable hooks. The single reflects the musical direction Oswald has explored in recent years while addressing themes linked to relationships and personal experiences.The song has been available on major streaming platforms since July 15, 2026. The official music video was also released on YouTube.#Oswald#Karma#KonpaMusic#HaitianMusic#CaribbeanMusic by @chokarella_en

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Haitian forward Wilson Isidor’s goal against Morocco has been selected among the 12 goals nominated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Goal of the Tournament award. The list was announced on Monday, July 20, on FIFA’s official website, where fans around the world can now vote for their favorite goal presented by Hyundai.During the group stage, @wilsonisidor21 scored Haiti’s second-ever World Cup goal with a powerful strike against Morocco. FIFA placed the goal in the “Power and Precision” category, writing: “Will there be a cleaner strike at this World Cup than this incredible Haitian shot?” in its presentation of the nominees.Isidor’s goal faces strong competition from several other players. New Zealand’s Elijah Just is among the candidates after a team move with Chris Wood against Iran, while France’s Kylian Mbappé was nominated for a long-range strike against Senegal. Lionel Messi also made the list with a goal after an assist from Rodrigo De Paul.Other nominees include 18-year-old Bosnian player Kerim Alajbegović, who scored after beating two defenders against Qatar, and Japan’s Daizen Maeda for a team goal against Sweden. Uzbekistan’s Eldor Shomurodov, Cape Verde’s Sidny Lopes Cabral, and Norway’s Erling Haaland are also among the selected players.The list also includes Argentina’s Julián Álvarez, England’s Jude Bellingham, and Spain’s Ferran Torres. Torres’ goal in extra time, after a pass from Nico Williams, helped Spain win its second World Cup title.Voting is open from July 20 to 27 on FIFA’s official website. Fans can choose the goal they consider the best of the tournament. For Haiti, this nomination puts the national team back in the international spotlight and gives Wilson Isidor a place among the players recognized during the 2026 World Cup.#WilsonIsidor#HaitiFootball#HaitiNationalTeam#FIFAWorldCup2026#GoalOfTheTournament by @chokarella_en

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It took extra time for the World Cup final to finally be decided. After more than 120 minutes of play, Spain managed to beat Argentina 1-0 and won its second World Cup title.The only goal of the match came from Ferran Torres in extra time. Sixteen years after winning its first World Cup against the Netherlands with Andrés Iniesta's famous goal, La Roja has once again added its name to the list of world champions.Spain controlled most of the game and created several chances but struggled to break through Argentina's defense. Argentina, meanwhile, stayed deep for most of the match and did not register its first shot on target until the 117th minute, as the game looked set to go to a penalty shootout.Ferran Torres' goal finally rewarded Spain for its dominance. Two years after winning the European Championship, the Spanish national team added a second World Cup trophy to its history and finished its tournament with another world title.#FIFAWorldCup#SpainNationalTeam#ArgentinaFootball#FerranTorres#WorldCupFinal by @chokarella_en

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Invited on July 11, 2026, on the show “Riddim and Bass,” hosted by Fatta Diamond @fattadiamond on Irie Jam Radio @iriejamradio in New York, Haitian-American singer Tadia Toussaint @tadia2saint spoke about her journey, cultural identity, and music projects. The artist appeared on 97.1 FM HD3, a station focused on Caribbean cultures in the New York area.At the beginning of the interview, Tadia talked about her connection to Haiti and her experience as part of the diaspora. “« Ayiti nan kay la! My name is Tadia, born in Brooklyn, raised in Brooklyn. New York made. I’m a proud Haitian diaspora, Haitian-American. Both my parents are Haitian, » ” she said.During her conversation with Fatta Diamond, Tadia shared her vision of music and cultural transmission. She is also a journalist and Emmy-nominated producer, and she discussed her dual identity and her journey between artistic creation and media work. After previous appearances in French and Creole-speaking diaspora media, including Chokarella and Ticket Magazine, this interview allowed her to introduce her work to an English-speaking Caribbean audience.The singer also spoke about “Party,” a collaboration bringing together artists from different generations. Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Jerry Wonda, the song features Tadia Toussaint, Konpa singer Alan Cavé, and American artist Elijah Blake.The track also includes a posthumous contribution from Mikaben (Michael Benjamin), who passed away in October 2022 during a concert in Paris. His presence gives the project a special meaning for many Haitian listeners. By presenting the song on Irie Jam Radio, Tadia highlighted a collaboration that connects music, memory, and community.Through this appearance, Tadia continued to share her Haitian roots and her artistic journey with audiences in the Caribbean diaspora. Her interview on Irie Jam Radio highlighted the role of music as a way to preserve identity and create connections across generations.#TadiaToussaint#HaitianDiaspora#HaitianMusic#CaribbeanCulture#HaitianHeritage by @chokarella_en

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