Haitian Fresh... A Moment w/the Man
With the great number of artists trying to make a name for themselves in the oversaturated game that is Hip-Hop, it’s rare to come across an artist that has enough originality to stand out. Wyclef Jean’s latest discovery, Haitian Fresh, is definitely standing out these days. With a new record deal and album in the works, the Haiti born rapper is set to explode onto the scene. BMBS had a chance to ask Haitian Fresh about the state of Hip-Hop, the forthcoming album and his plans for the future.
BMBS - I’ve been listening to some of your music and it’s banging. “Gone Joc” and “You Know What It Is” are just a couple of hot songs you’ve made. I noticed that there is something fresh about your sound. What makes your style so unique?
Haitian Fresh - Well one thing I’ve noticed about the game is that there are way too many followers. It’s to the point where artists are scared to be themselves. I’m the new face from my voice, my lyrics, and my performances. I’m in my own lane when it comes to my music and what I stand for, and that’s Haiti.
BMBS - I was able to see you perform recently and it was clear that you have a large and loyal fan base. How did your career develop?
Haitian Fresh - I had a desire to touch an area that other Haitian rappers were afraid to touch. They didn’t think the industry would accept them. If you think about it, the biggest names in the game are people who brought their own taste to the game, their own sound. I’m a go getta, one of the best to do what I do independently, which helped develop my career. I have love for my fans and they love me because they know that I do this for the love of the movement and to make a difference, not for the fame. That mindset helped take my career to another level.
BMBS - What do you think about today’s Hip-Hop?
Haitian Fresh - Hip Hop needs help. When you sit back and think about it, what are we teaching our youth. Not too many rappers are telling kids it’s okay to be a rapper, but stay in school. How many rappers do you see going to schools not to perform, but to talk to the kids? I feel that once an artist reaches to the top where he’s known worldwide, he needs to give back and open up doors for others. I’m here now, so if it’s God’s will, there will be some changes.
BMBS - What would you say to any aspiring artists trying to break into the game?
Haitian Fresh - Trust in your music, you have to believe in yourself first and foremost. Watch, who ask about your music, be mindful of how you spend your money, and don’t trust any and everyone who say they can help you with out researching them first. Grind, grind, and then grind some more. Make a lot of appearances, make people notice you while you’re working on your music. Find one song that the DJ’s love and run with it, don’t drop an album when no one knows you. Keep God first and make sure you watch who you’re around. Go all out and find your own lane.
BMBS - I understand that you are originally from Haiti. With all the political issues that have gone on back home, how important is it for you to represent for the people there?
Haitian Fresh - Well, even though Haiti is the first country in history to gain its independence, we’ve always been a country that has been left out. It’s very important for us to join forces now, now that’s one of the reasons why we’ve created this movement. Wyclef is doing a lot for the country with Yele’ Ayiti and more people need to get on board cause together we can make more of an impact.
BMBS - You just signed a record deal with the legendary Wyclef Jean who is also from Haiti. Do the two of you share a special bond because of that?
Haitian Fresh - Of course, when I first met him it was like we already met. Man, his heart is pure, he saw the same vision that I saw. It was a blessing, God made our paths cross.
BMBS - Where do you see your career heading in the next five years? Is there anything else that you are looking to branch out and do?
Haitian Fresh - I’m looking to break records, make good music that touches people. Developing my own clothing line, acting and directing movies and TV shows. The doors are wide open because I’m a very versatile person and the world will soon figure that out.
BMBS - When can the fans expect Haitian Fresh album to drop?
Haitian Fresh - Right now, it’s up to the powers that be. May 18th, Haitian Independence day would be my ideal date, but I don’t want to rush it. First impressions are very important. I want to make history and I have the best person in the business by my side, Wyclef.
BMBS - Are you planning to do any touring in the near future?
Haitian Fresh - Of course. Right now, I’m doing shows, and making special appearances on several of Wyclef’s tour dates, but right now we’re focusing on the video for Gon Joc, that’s when the world is going to change.
BMBS -Is there anything else you want to tell the fans?
Haitian FreshI will always stay loyal to everyone, expect the best from me every time. I’m reppin Haiti til I die. Stay focus and be the best at everything you do. I love all of my fans and non fans. Shout out to God, my mom, my daughter, all the DJs and promoters, my family, Zoe Pound, RP, Solo, Free Mac a Zoe, my manager Tiffre and Ivy Box. World wide love yall!
Nicole Robinson - January 2008
