Bal Bannann Nan (Kanaval 2016) on CD

Currently the acting president of Haiti, Michel Martelly first rose to prominence as one of Haiti’s best known musicians. Known by his stage name “Sweet Micky,” Martelly modernized a style of Haitian dance music known as compas music (konpa), sung predominantly in the Haitian Creole language, by using smaller bands relying on synthesizers and electronic instruments. Martelly released over a dozen studio albums between 1989 and 2008 as well as a number of live CDs. Primarily a keyboardist and singer, Martelly’s live shows have sometimes ignited controversy among fellow Haitians for his gruff language and sociopolitical diatribes. Presented here is Martelly’s latest single for Kanaval 2016, Bal Bannann Nan.