Biguine is undoubtedly one of the first cultural treasures that the French Caribbean islands have offered to the world. More than just a musical genre, it embodies the history, traditions and evolution of a people. Anchored in the daily lives of the people of Martinique and Guadeloupe, this dance and music has survived the centuries to become a symbol of cultural pride. How did this music come into being, and why does it hold such a special place in the hearts of the inhabitants of these islands and far beyond?
The origins of Biguine: a meeting of cultures
Born in Saint-Pierre, Martinique, Biguine is the result of a musical crossbreeding between the bélé, a rural Martinican rhythm, and the polka, an urban European genre. This unique blend has given birth to a rhythmic, syncopated music to which bodies naturally move. The Biguine is distinguished by its two-beat rhythm, accentuated by a syncopation that makes you want to waddle, with a sensuality that is at the heart of couple dancing.
The meeting of these two genres symbolizes much more than a simple blend of rhythms. It bears witness to a time when the descendants of slaves sought to assert themselves, to claim their place in a rapidly changing society. Dancing and playing the Biguine was a way of distinguishing themselves, of showing that they were twentieth-century citizens, connected to modernity while remaining anchored in their Creole roots.
La Biguine: between modernity and tradition
The Biguine quickly transcended its role as simple entertainment to become a symbol of modernity in the society of the French Caribbean islands. For the Martiniquais of the early 20th century, playing the Biguine was also an affirmation of belonging to an urban, educated elite. Played at society balls and parties, this music reflected an aspiration for sophistication and civility. It enabled the descendants of slaves to differentiate themselves from those who remained in the countryside, often still associated with rural traditions and ancestral rhythms.
Another unique aspect of Biguine is its political role. Indeed, the often ironic lyrics of the songs served as a means of commenting on current events, particularly election campaigns. Classics such as Métis Tintin and Boféa are examples of songs that mocked election candidates, transforming the music into a space for subtle political debate.
Emblematic Biguine instruments
One instrument plays a central role in the Biguine’s sound: the clarinet. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the clarinet was an accessible, easy-to-play instrument, suited to the tropical conditions of the Caribbean islands. At the time, the poor man’s instrument was still the violin, but the clarinet took over thanks to its robustness and simplicity.
Musicians like Alexandre Stellio have left their mark on Biguine history with their impressive mastery of the instrument. Stélio, in particular, is known for his endless choruses and prodigious breath, creating a music that is both melancholy and energetic, deeply rooted in the memory of Saint-Pierre before the tragic eruption of 1902.
Biguine and its heritage: a springboard to Zouk
Biguine is not only a music of the past, it is also the ancestor of many other Creole musical forms, including zouk, which conquered the world in the 1980s. From Biguine to reggae to mambo, these genres all share common roots in Creole rhythms, which have travelled and evolved over the centuries.
Artists like Léona Gabriel have also played a key role in preserving and passing on the biguine tradition. In the 1940s, she became the spokeswoman for the biguine tradition, ensuring that this musical style continued to be played and recognized in its authenticity.
The International Expansion of Biguine: From Paris to New Orleans
Although Biguine originated in the French Caribbean islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe, it soon spread beyond these islands to other parts of the world, such as mainland France and the USA.
In the 1930s, talented musicians such as Alexandre Stellio and Sam Castendet brought the Biguine to Paris, where it quickly won over the Parisian public, particularly after the 1931 Colonial Exhibition. This period marked the entry of Biguine into Parisian balls and cabarets, contributing to its rise in Europe and its status as an international cultural phenomenon.
Biguine also influenced jazz in the United States, particularly in Louisiana, where the Creoles of New Orleans incorporated Biguine rhythmic elements into their compositions, thus contributing to the evolution of this emblematic music.
Today, Biguine is a living testimony to the rich cultural heritage of the French Caribbean islands. More than just a music, it embodies the resilience, identity and heritage of Martinique and Guadeloupe, while inspiring new generations of musicians. This timeless musical genre continues to shine through international events such as the Biguine Jazz Festival in Martinique, where world-renowned artists pay tribute to a music that continues to evolve, while remaining deeply rooted in the collective memory of the Creole world.
Caribbean Airlines continues to strengthen its presence in the Caribbean region with the announcement of new routes to the French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe.
As the benchmark airline in the Caribbean, Caribbean Airlines is committed to improving connectivity between the islands and facilitating travel for both business and leisure travellers.
A step closer to regional connectivity
The launch of these new routes reflects Caribbean Airlines’ determination to expand its network in the Caribbean, offering greater accessibility between the region’s French-, English-, Spanish- and Dutch-speaking islands.
The new services to Martinique will start on December 3, 2024, followed by flights to Guadeloupe on December 7, 2024.
These flights are scheduled four times a week to each destination, considerably reducing journey times which, until now, required several connections or long hours at sea.
Flight times to Martinique
Flight times to Guadeloupe
An Opportunity for Tourism and Cultural Exchange
The arrival of Caribbean Airlines in Martinique and Guadeloupe is welcomed by local tourism and transport players.
Madame Nathalie Sébastien, President/CEO of Société Aéroport Martinique Aimé Césaire (S.A.M.A.C), declared:
“The arrival of Caribbean Airlines is a significant step forward for our island and its connectivity in the Caribbean basin.
This collaboration will be synonymous with mutual benefits for our populations, strengthening cultural and economic exchanges. “
Bénédicte di Geronimo, President of the Tourism Board of Martinique, added:
“We are very pleased that Caribbean Airlines is extending its services to Martinique. This will help strengthen the cultural and economic ties between the southern islands and Martinique.”
These new routes between Trinidad, Martinique and Guadeloupe reinforce Caribbean Airlines’ mission to connect the peoples and cultures of the Caribbean.
For business travellers and tourists alike, these new routes offer a fast, reliable and cost-effective alternative, enabling a smoother exploration of the region’s treasures.
Tickets for these new destinations are already available for sale on the official Caribbean Airlines website www.caribbean-airlines.com, via their call center or in travel agencies.
September 21 and 22, 2024 will mark the 41st edition of the European Heritage Days, a not-to-be-missed event for history, culture and discovery enthusiasts.
In Martinique, this celebration takes place in an exceptional setting, highlighting two central themes: maritime heritage and that of routes, networks and connections.
Exceptional opening of historic sites
As every year, Martinique will be opening the doors of over 130 emblematic sites, offering the public a rare opportunity to discover sites that are often inaccessible.
These sites, selected for their historical and cultural value, range from civil and religious monuments to industrial infrastructures, exceptional residences and remarkable natural sites.
Registration for these tours is mainly via the dedicated open agenda, which opened at the beginning of September. Residents and visitors are invited to explore these hidden treasures, which tell the story of the island’s rich and varied history.
Maritime Heritage in the spotlight
France, thanks to its overseas territories such as Martinique, has the second largest maritime domain in the world, extending over more than 10 million square kilometers.
Martinique, with its coastline rich in history and maritime traditions, occupies an important place in this ensemble.
During Heritage Days 2024, visitors will be able to discover the richness of Martinique’s maritime heritage through visits to emblematic port sites, historic lighthouses and legendary boats.
Local maritime know-how, such as traditional shipbuilding and sailing aboard round skiffs, will also be showcased.
These elements embody the island’s maritime history, testifying to the importance of this living heritage to Martinique’s cultural identity.
On Heritage Trails, Routes and Connections
Alongside the maritime theme, the 2024 edition explores the heritage of routes, networks and connections. This theme invites us to take a journey through time, tracing the communication routes that have linked peoples and cultures. From the ancient Roman road network to pilgrimage routes, railroads and waterways, these routes bear witness to human genius in the art of connecting territories.
In Martinique, this theme takes on a particular resonance with the ancient roads that criss-cross the island, the mountain trails and sea passages that have shaped its history. Visitors can follow these historic paths and discover how they have helped shape economic, cultural and social exchanges over the centuries.
An Event for All Audiences
The Heritage Days are above all a time for sharing and exchange.
Once again this year, heritage professionals will be on hand to offer the public guided tours, lectures and workshops, enabling everyone to immerse themselves in the history and traditions of Martinique.
Friday September 20 will be specially dedicated to schoolchildren as part of the “Raise your eyes!” operation, a partnership between the French Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Education.
The aim of this initiative is to raise awareness among the younger generation of the importance of protecting and promoting our heritage.
The Journées du patrimoine 2024 in Martinique promises to be an exceptional event for all those wishing to discover or rediscover the immense wealth of the island’s heritage.
Between sea and mountains, history and modernity, this edition invites you on a unique journey through Martinique’s cultural and natural treasures.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be amazed by the diversity and beauty of Martinique’s heritage.
Mario Gilbert, known professionally as Rio Le Château
Rio Le Chateau describes his photographic art as “flattening his imagination onto a photo.” This statement encapsulates his creative process, where he merges vivid imagery with conceptual depth, creating a canvas that reflects both Caribbean mythology and societal commentary.
His style, which he relates to the surreal and provocative nature of Salvador Dali’s work, challenges conventional norms and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression.
Rio’s work is characterized by a blend of humor, sharp critique, and emotional depth, which he uses to explore themes of cultural identity and historical influence in the Caribbean.
As both an art director and a communication consultant in Martinique, he incorporates his profound understanding of visual and communicative arts into his photography, making his work resonate with both contemporary and traditional audiences.
His art provokes discussion between historical and modern perspectives, adhering to Charles Baudelaire’s idea that true artists should remain faithful to their perceptions and feelings.
For a deeper exploration of Rio Le Château’s work and his impact on Caribbean art, you can visit his profile and learn more about his contributions to the field.
Rio Le Chateau website : https://riolechateau.com/
MARTINIQUE
Richès Karayib Introduces Yoni Alpha, Better Known by His Artist Name “Paille” – The Man “Paille”
Paille, a masterful singer-songwriter of Reggae-Dancehall from Martinique, has made a significant mark over the past 20 years with his compelling musical narratives and vibrant performances. His career showcases a notable evolution in musical style and thematic depth. With each album and song, he brings thoughtful production and lyrical maturity, consistently addressing complex subjects with a unique artistic voice.
Throughout his illustrious career, Paille has collaborated with a broad spectrum of Caribbean talents, including legends like Kassav and contemporary stars such as Etana, Konshens, Anthony B, Meryl, Straïka D, and the notably talented DJ Avalanche. These collaborations have not only enhanced his musical repertoire but also expanded his influence across Caribbean cultures, solidifying his status as a Caribbean artist.
Join us as we delve deeper into the life and music of The Man “Paille,” who intriguingly hides behind his straw hat. Discover the significant impact he continues to have across the Caribbean music landscape and look forward to exploring his latest musical ventures in the sections that follow.
WHO I AM
I am called PAILLE since ’97, it’s a nickname that basically has nothing to do with music, it came from the expression “Boulé An Pay” (which means drunk in creole) and as I had some experiences with alcohol during my youth the nickname remained and became PAILLE, my artist name.
We laugh about it now but at the time it was not fun.
I sing more Dancehall, Raggae, Hip Hop, but honestly I like writing, no matter the kind of music, no matter what the tempo is.
I like the storytelling logic and rap, Dancehall do it well.
There are lighter music, which will be interesting for their musical qualities like zouk, but which are also necessary at times, it depends of the mood, period … and lots of things.
MY BEGINNINGS
I believe I’ve always been someone who hums and mutters lyrics I wrote myself. Even back in school, I’d find myself on stage, belting out the few lines I had penned.
Then, around 2000-2001, I ended up in Byronn’s studio quite by chance, and we tried out a ‘little something’. I wasn’t pleased with the outcome because I really struggled to express what I had in my head through the microphone.
I wanted to get better, so I started going to the studio more and more, until soon it was all I did…
And then, things took off.
First Song
“PA SA PALÉ BAY,” but not in the form it’s known today.
The Ones I Prefer
Once they’re released, the songs aren’t mine anymore. You have to be passionate about what you’re doing as you’re doing it.
That said, some songs are more enjoyable to write because the ideas flow better or the perspective on the issue seems more intriguing.
However, I’m naturally more motivated by the ones yet to come, as I’ll be listening, revising, searching for the right word, the right way to pronounce, rather than those that are already completed.
PAILLE'S LONG AWAITING ALBUM RELEASE
“Le Crépuscule des Lions”
A Fusion of Genres and Emotions
“Le Crépuscule des Lions” offers a vibrant mix of musical styles, combining dancehall, zouk, soca, and reggae. Each track serves as a narrative chapter that provides listeners with a profound emotional and thematic journey. From the introspective “Le Monstre” to the energetic “Ruff On Di Road,” and the reflective “Friendzone,” Paille uses his distinctive lyrical approach to explore complex themes.
Friendzone”: Navigating Unspoken Love
“Friendzone” captures the all-too-familiar whirlwind of unspoken love. Paille masterfully weaves this tale with poetic lyrics and melodious Zouk rhythms, painting a vivid picture of the emotions that linger just beneath the surface. Each verse delicately explores the depths of love that remains unreciprocated, resonating with anyone who’s found themselves yearning for someone just out of reach. This track not only touches the heart but also evokes a tender familiarity, making it a poignant anthem for the loves we’ve silently held close.
Comme Papa”: A Journey into Sensuality and Emotion
“Comme Papa” by Paille is a masterclass in the art of seduction, blending poetic lyrics with sensual vibes to explore the nuances of love and allure. Directed by Vianney Sotès, the accompanying music video pushes artistic boundaries. This track is an anthem to love’s power, promising an unforgettable auditory experience where Caribbean rhythms meet urban pop, captivating a diverse audience.
Collaboration with DJ Avalanche
A major release is “Born n’ Raised,” crafted in collaboration with DJ Avalanche. This track has resonated strongly within the Soca community for its powerful message of unity and celebration of Caribbean identity. With its compelling lyrics and anthem-like quality, it is poised to become a staple in caribbean playlists.
A Rich Tapestry of Musical Exploration
Discover here the album
THE STAGE, MY PLAYGROUND
I’ve performed at the Bacchanal Block in Saint-Lucia, the UBERSOCA Cruise, twice at Bercy, the ‘Nuit de l’Outre-Mer’ and at the Olympia with E.sy Kennega.
My music has taken me to festivals across the globe in Morocco, Canada, Colombia, Germany, Switzerland, and Reunion.
Interestingly, it all began quite modestly. When Byronn and I first made music together in Sainte-Luce, it was simply about expressing ourselves through song in our hometown.
AND THE CARIBBEAN...
Traveling to Dominica and Saint Lucia revealed how English-speaking Caribbean islands share knowledge and news among themselves, as seen in Saint Lucia’s news coverage of nearby islands like Saint Vincent and Barbados.
In contrast, French Caribbean islands display a notable lack of awareness about each other’s histories, suggesting that building a unified Caribbean identity requires better mutual understanding.
True closeness comes from understanding, which involves education, explanation, and exchange—ideally taught in schools at a young age.
Asking adults, who have already formed their beliefs and certainties, to challenge these or to construct a new Caribbean identity is nearly impossible. It’s more effective and necessary when minds are still open and eager to learn.
Yet, given today’s fast-paced world, it’s unlikely we’ll find the time to truly understand each other, though it would go a long way in breaking down prejudices.
Richès Karayib meets the glass sculptor Robert Manscour.
We had the pleasure of discovering his workshop located in Trinité in Martinique.
This place is full of art works, some as impressive as the others, each having its own uniqueness.
Robert, tells us about his story, his love for glass that he wants to share and exhibit beyond the borders of Martinique in Guadeloupe or in Puerto Rico.
Let’s discover together the artist and his artworks.
About
Robert…
Robi
The subtitles are available in French and Spanish!
PORTFOLIO
The ROBI
PORTFOLIO
The STANI
PORTFOLIO
The MASKS
PORTFOLIO
The workshop – exhibition
THE COURSE OF THE EVENT
Dear correspondents, participants and all those who wished to participate, but could not because of technical or other reasons, in the virtual meeting of Wednesday, October 13, 2021:
“ART AND CULTURE: CATALYSTS FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE CARIBBEAN…..”
Event organized by Sabrina Ajax, (Richès Karayib / ASIS WI) and OMDAC, with the technical support of the Municipality of Lamentin (Mediatheque) which experimented its new material of videoconference with our operation.
We had the pleasure to send you initially the event presentation which specified the panel breakdown identified by the photos. The 4 panels were planned in the following way with a time dedicated to exchanges after each panel. :
-Institutions
– Cultural organisations
– Artists
– Experts Culture
OUR EXCUSES
First of all, we would like to apologize to all those who had difficulties with the registration, then we had an incomprehensible bug with the application, which led to a significant delay, but especially deprived our participants to access the conference and to have the simultaneous translation initially planned with a professional.
We had also planned a live broadcast on Facebook and Youtube which for the same reasons could not take place.
Afterwards, we encountered some technical difficulties and a sometimes unstable connection, but these did not impact the quality of the speeches and exchanges.
We regretted however the absence of 5 announced speakers, Then, considering the time lost for the reasons indicated above, some presentations were unfortunately shortened and several videos of artists’ representations could not be shown. We reiterate our deepest apologies to them.
OVERVIEW
However, 35 people of 6 different nationalities, from their territory, or from Paris for example, were connected (prospective speakers, listeners), in addition to a delegation from the CTM, the local authority and participants from associations as well as a professional from the cultural sector who spoke from the Media Library of Lamentin.
Nevertheless, this meeting allowed the achievement of our schedule as planned and most of the participants, in the chat or live or by their post-visio messages expressed their satisfaction to have taken advantage of this opportunity to know the devices, to express themselves on their work, their expectations, and to have exchanged with Caribbean counterparts.
BACK TO THE INTERVENTIONS
PANEL 1
We had the pleasure to hear the presentation of concrete cultural experiences, as well as to know the institutional approaches.
The DAC (Department of Cultural Affairs), represented by Agnès BRETEL, presented, to the participants’ satisfaction, the tools and solutions that aim to support cultural operators and stakeholders. Among these are the measures that allow projects and artists to travel abroad (mobility fund, FEAC…)
The CTM (the Local Authority of Martinique), in charge of the development of the community, represented by Mrs. MONROSE and Mrs. TELLE, recalled that they will continue to support and value actions that contribute to the development of the international cooperation and culture. She underlined the main lines of her action to promote the sustainability of the cultural sector and the main directions of her cultural policy.
PANEL 2
The cultural organizations explained their actions and their willingness to collaborate with cultural stakeholders from the Caribbean.
CARIB’OPERA, represented by Joël GLOMBARD from MARTINIQUE.
He presented the concept of Ensemble Carib’Opera that gathers people with a common point: the lyrical song. This association develops lyrical art, live shows and the training of young West Indian artists.
Its goal is to promote the Caribbean culture through these actions. Its wish is to develop exchanges with similar organizations within the Caribbean.
The OMDAC, represented by Rodrigue TOUSSIES from MARTINIQUE.
He summarized, as a non-institutional structure, the actions of the association in Martinique and in the Caribbean zone for nearly 40 years. He specified its involvement in the Sustainable Development Goals from the cultural perspective.
KEK (KONMITE POU ETID KWEYOL), represented by Gregory RABESS from DOMINICA.
He spoke about how music and art have played an important role in building Dominica’s identity. Creole and all the events created around Creole have contributed greatly to the development of Dominican cooperation and cultural industry.
HAITI TCHAKA DANSE, represented by Brusma DAPHNIS.
For him, we cannot talk about tourism without talking about the cultural sector. The meetings and discussions are good starting points that must be materialized by actions and that will pass by collaborations with the stakeholders from other Caribbean countries to co-build training and cultural projects.
PANEL 3
We were able to discover talented artists such as:
Tanya OCTAVIUS – Artist painter and creator of jewels from MARTINIQUE who did us the honor to join the Media Library of Lamentin.
Activist artist, she tells her story, the one of Martinique through her artworks. She uses recycle material as much as possible because sustainable development is important to her. According to her, art has a primordial role to play at this level; in particular that of being a vehicle, a universal language.
Peterson LANDE – Singer-Dancer – HAITI
He wishes that the youth of the Caribbean be interconnected so that we can facilitate and develop cultural exchanges.
It is necessary to be able to share ideas and the concretization will pass by the highlighting of the young people.
Michele HENDERSON – Singer-songwriter – DOMINICA
According to her, we need to establish very solid links between music practitioners and supporting organizations in the region in order to move the cultural industry forward.
XONE – Singer-songwriter – TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
For him, it was a very enjoyable and informative experience. When It comes to collaborating ideas to further Caribbean music and Culture in the world this kind of meeting are indeed a step in the right direction.
PANEL 4
We apologize to Damion Radcliffe, Adrien Augier and Eric Taylor who introduced themselves and were unable to express themselves further due to timing.
Eric TAYLOR – Caribbean Cultural Activist – “Pink Panther” Singer – TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
He is the President and Founder of the Sangre Grande Development Foundation, one of TT’s premier civil society organizations.
He is also the Director of One Culture One Vibes Company Ltd., which is dedicated to the preservation and nurturing of oral traditions and arts peculiar to the Caribbean.
Adrian AUGIER – Activist for Caribbean culture – SAINTE-LUCIE
He is a development economist active in the public and private sectors.
He works as a creative consultant across several platforms: Carnival, Media, Marketing, Theater, Events.
He is also an writer of poetry, scripts, articles, essays, lyrics.
Damion RADCLIFFE – Artist and member of the Government of JAMAICA
He is an artistic visionary with a passion for creating theatre that is impactful.
Possessing zest and dexterity in producing, directing, set designing, performing, and script writing, he is destined for greatness in the world of theatre and film. At the heart of all of his artistic gifts is his desire to use the arts as a tool for empowerment, social change and education.
He is an active member of the country’s Cultural Development Commission.
ARTISTS and CULTURAL PLAYERS NOT BROADCAST
We also apologize to Akeem Chandler Prescod, Cyndi Marshall, Damien Lurel whose videos could not be shown. Nevertheless they will be broadcasted later on Richès Karayib platform.
Damien LUREL – Creator of the game “Fon Lespri Koko” – GUADELOUPE
He is the founder and president of Carré-tropical, which defends Caribbean culture through its game and its actions.
Cyndi Celest Marshall – BARBADOS
She is a spoken word poet, storyteller, and creative entrepreneur.
Arts activist and language advocate she use performance poetry and literature to encourage social discourse on issues of identity. She has represented Barbados on international stages such as the Women of the World Poetry Slam (2021) and the Vrystaat Arts Festival in South Africa (2019).
Akeem Prescod Chandler, known as StonedwithCupid – BARBADOS
He is a spoken word artist, photographer, song-writer, and creative director from Barbados. His work is an experimental blend of Hip-Hop, Soul, Story-Telling, and Theatre, woven together in a neatly stitched poetic product.
CONCLUSION
It is worth to remember that this event was the starting point of the platform’s activities that will continue to develop communication and networking, and even cooperation for productive actions within the Caribbean.
It was not our purpose to resolve in 2 hours all the problems of the sector, but to allow the mutual knowledge, to exchange information and to find out ways to approach the reasoned and productive development of the sector of arts and culture.
Thus, in the framework of the Riches Karayib platform, other more specific events will be scheduled on particular themes, taking into consideration the participants’ expectations and requests, with the goal of reaching operational solutions as much as possible.
YOUR CO-ORGANIZERS
Richès Karayib thanks the co-organizers of this event.
Yves-Marie Séraline, President of OMDAC, Vice President of CÉSECÉM and President of the culture, education and sports section.
The Municipality of Lamentin and its teams: Sophie TOULOUSE, Davy LERIBAG and Franck RIVOT.
Sabrina AJAX – Founder ASIS WI and creator Richès Karayib
WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION & YOUR POSITIVE FEEDBACKS.
This event is the first of a series of meetings and actions in favor of the Caribbean culture….
Join the RK community to follow our news.
“MAPIE”
Richès Karayib introduces you to Mapie, whose real name is Marie-Pierre Loiseau, she was born on March 3rd 1982 in Martinique.
She is a senior executive in an public administration and at the same time she is an author and artist which give her the pleasure of sharing her poetry on the SLAM stages of Martinique and on the world scene since 2009.
Mapie introduces us to her very first book:
“Au bout du petit matin… l’Émotion!” (At the end of the morning… The Emotion!)
The summary
Thus, these are words of Love tranversing all the states of her heart during her life and those of others who have become hers by the magic of poetry:
Happy or unhappy love words,
Militant words shouting at the world’s lack of love,
Words of intimate moments,
Reverberating words by beloved artists,
Words of humanity from one heart on the way to meet another,
Words of hope for better tomorrows…
I wrote this book in response to my audience request who regularly expressed the desire to reread my words at the end of my performances.
I have the utopia of believing that poetry can contribute to the construction of better tomorrows and my life experiences encourage me to cultivate this idea.
D’ici Danse! (From here Dance !)
Text from the poem collection “Au bout du petit matin… l’Émotion!”
Mapie/Boogie Flaha – poetic videoclip
In tribute to Bernadin LOISEAU, dissident left without recognition to live up to his commitment…
D’ici Danse! (From here Dance !)
Text from the poem collection “Au bout du petit matin… l’Émotion!”
Mapie/Boogie Flaha – poetic videoclip
In tribute to Bernadin LOISEAU, dissident left without recognition to live up to his commitment…
MARC ALEXANDRE OHO BAMBÉ
CAMEROON
His poetry is powerful, code-free and inspiring.
Its intoxicating rhythm carries messages that echo my hopes for a better tomorrow.
IMANIYÉ DALILA DANIEL
MARTINIQUE
Her way of highlighting our past to question our present is puzzling, inspiring and seductive.
The beauty of his pen sublimates the gait.
STEEVE GADET
MARTINIQUE & GUADELOUPE
The audacity of his writing is seductive.
He dares to address painful and/or taboo themes.
It invites us to reflect on ourselves with a fluid writing, without unnecessary details and yet sometimes so poetic .
My Little Anecdote
Visiting an exhibition of painters, I was overcome with great emotion in front of the paintings of one of the artists.
I didn’t know her: MILOU.
Motionless, tears in my eyes in front of her works, she came to me and said:
“Hello Mapie.”
I was surprised to know that she knew me.
I then told her about the effect of her paintings on me.
She said:
“It’s normal, all these paintings have been painted since I came to the slam scenes.
You are the source of inspiration.
These are your words that you see there… ».
We then cried in each other’s arms and I left with one of her paintings.
A beautiful meeting…
Escapade (Getaway)
Text from the poem collection “Au bout du petit matin… l’Émotion!”
Mapie/Wouves – poetic videoclip
I have a dream…
I had that experience in Côte d’Ivoire during a festival of the arts of speech…
Maybe at home?
And finally….
“Our children will be poetry
Poetry today for tomorrow’s children says yes to life
Our children will be tales
Yesterday’s legend and today’s story
They will be prophecy for the lives to come.”