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Tropicana D'Haiti a Classic Compas Big Band

August 15, 2013 9:25 AM

Haitian Big Band group, Tropicana d'Haiti, boasts a lineup of 20 ace musicians. Big Band music became popular in the States in the 1940s, and Haiti imported the genre during the 1960s. Of note is the fact TOH was part of the development of Compás that began in the 50s. The instrumentation of the group comprises piano, congas, drums, and guitar. The players are known for their high level of musicianship.

Orchestre tropicana d'haiti - VARIETE - les gens du nord

Tropicana D'Haiti got its name from a popular Cuban night-spot ex-patriates frequented. As such, the music derives from Cuban roots music pachanga, salsa, and meringue.

Tropicana D'Haiti, a mainstay of Haitian music, has endured over four decades. It is well-known for scat riffs and spirited compositions. Its catalog of top-ten successes--too numerous to mention--contains such gems as "Yolande", "Limonade", "Veye Priye", "Angelique", and "Fleure Adore".

JOUDA - Orchestre Tropicana d'haiti

Beginning in the mid-sixties, Tropicana's most fervent fans resided in North Haiti, but the enormous success of their latest CD issue, Papa Cokote, has extended their appeal to most of the island.

With the passage of time, some of the original members have left and been replaced by younger players. The current lineup consists of new members lead vocalist Luc Doralus, keyboard player Herles Andre, and bass player Jamind Anglad.

Tropicana D'Haiti has played to audiences in celebrated concert venues in the U.S., including New York's Lincoln Center Summer Music Series. The group is at the nexus of Haiti's music traditions and will remain so for a long time to come.

Orchestre Tropicana d'Haiti