Haitian singer and multi-instrumentalist Paul Beaubrun to perform at the 2021 Haitian American Young Professional Awards Gala.<\/p>\n
STORY ABOUT PAUL BEAUBRUN:<\/p>\n
Haitian singer and multi-instrumentalist Paul Beaubrun\u2014son of Theodore \u201cL\u00f2l\u00f2\u201d and Mimerose \u201cManz\u00e8\u201d Beaubrun of the Grammy-nominated Haitian band Boukman Eksperyans\u2014does it again with a sensational and thought provoking album, Ayibobo. Released three years after his acoustic album Vilnerab (2015), and six years after Project Haiti (2012) with Zing Experience, Ayibobo weaves together Haitian roots music with rock and roll and reggae, which Beaubrun refers to as \u201cRoots\/Blues\u201d music. While this album demonstrates Beaubrun\u2019s compositional concepts and the socially conscious lyrics that fans have grown accustomed too, Ayibobo feels a bit more personal as Beaubrun recounts his lived experiences while reflecting on the encouraging words his mother instilled in him.<\/p>\n
The title track \u201cAyibobo\u201d narrates the circumstances in 2004 that lead to his fleeing Haiti to New York. Beaubrun reminisces on the comfort and strength he felt while remembering what his mother taught him, \u2018ayibobo.\u2019 The Haitian Creole term means \u2018hallelujah\u2019 or \u2018amen,\u2019 but \u2018ayibobo\u2019 also carries cultural connotations that can be interpreted as a form of elation. By using this word, Beaubrun demonstrates how one word can strengthen familial and communal ties within the global Haitian community, while paying tribute to Haitian cultural practices.<\/p>\n
On \u201cRise Up,\u201d Beaubrun leans more towards social activism, calling for people to \u201crise up and be free\u201d while using reggae\u2014a Jamaican musical genre known for its political commentary\u2014as the musical vehicle for his political activist endeavors. We cannot overlook the Haitian folkloric influences that are heard throughout this album, specifically the Haitian drums (tanbou) on \u201cNaissance\u201d and \u201cElizi.\u201d Sonically, we hear the Haitian polyrhythmic patterns that provide the underlying foundational groove and pulse. Moreover, these songs echo the mizik rasin (roots music) tradition and Haitian mythological themes that are commonly associated with it.<\/p>\n
Ayibobo is a phenomenal illustration of Beaubrun\u2019s artistic brilliance. As listeners, we are treated to the wonderful collage of musical sounds while experiencing the exhilarating spirit and cultural sentiments of the Haitian community. Furthermore, this album serves as an exemplar of music and activism. But above all, Ayibobo is a heartfelt expression of a man\u2019s love for his country and community.<\/p>\n
-Jamaal Baptiste
\nBlack Grooves – Archives of African American Music and Culture
\nhttp:\/\/blackgrooves.org\/paul-beaubrun-ayibobo\/<\/p>\n
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