Alan Cavé opens for French Congolese artist GIMS in historic Madison Square Garden show

Alan Cavé, revered as the King of Konpa Love, made Haitian Music Industry (HMI) history earlier this month when he opened for French Congolese artist GIMS – formerly Maitre Gims – alongside DJ Stakz, and Jackson Chery and his band, Bridging the Gap, at New York City’s Madison Square Garden.

The concert, which took place on Nov. 2, was attended by thousands of Francophone music fans. Cavé performed hits like “Ma Rose,” “Nan Nannan,” and mega-hit “Se Pa Pou Dat,” while Stakz spun popular tunes like “1er Gaou” by Magic System and “Kem Pa Sote” by Boukman Eksperyans.

“Becoming the first Haitian singer to perform Haitian music at Madison Square Garden was a monumental milestone in my career and a deeply proud moment,” Cave told The Haitian Times in a statement.  

“I hope this achievement paves the way for greater global recognition of Haitian music & culture, while also inspiring the next generation of talented Haitian youth to dream big and aim high.”

The rising popularity of Afrobeats and French rap worldwide reflects a growing embrace of Francophone and African-inspired music genres. Just as Afrobeats has captivated global audiences, French rap continues to grow its fanbase by blending African, Caribbean, and European influences.

Haitian genres like Kona and Raboday are also finding broader recognition, resonating beyond Haitian communities and reaching new listeners, especially on platforms like TikTok. 

“My hope is that Haitian music takes its fullest place in the global music industry as music is currently functioning as Haiti’s premiere source of reverse tourism allowing people to experience our rich culture and language through diverse sounds,” said the Haitian American music artist and curator, Tadia Toussaint who goes by TADIA. 

TADIA organized the special opening act that also included gospel vocal collective Jackson Chery & Bridging the Gap performing a medley of “Fridayy’s God Did” and “Done For Me” and their original “Batay La.”

“My hope is that when we think of Haitian music we think beyond the Haitian Music Industry because that often limits the spaces we expect to hear Haitian music. This show is a testament that Haitian music can exist in spaces with wider audiences,” added TADIA.

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