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Misty Jean had already carved out her place as one of the most promising female artists in the Haitian Music Industry. Known for her elegance, sensual voice, and fierce determination, Misty has not only released two successful albums but has also challenged stereotypes about women in the HMI. She has inspired countless young women by proving that female artists can stand on their own and lead with confidence.
In this in-depth conversation, I, Cheyna, sat down with Misty to discuss her views on the industry, her journey, and her vision for the future. She spoke candidly about promoters not supporting female artists, why she loves being single, her childhood memories, and the challenges she faces as a woman in Konpa.
Cheyna: What initially inspired you about Konpa music?
Misty: Well, it is my culture and my roots. It is good to represent where you come from and who you are. I like music, and our most popular rhythm is Konpa, so it is natural that it is one of the kinds of music that inspire me.
Cheyna: How did you get involved in music?
Misty: I have been singing since I was three years old, starting with Candy for Paul Villefranche at Calsyrd in Port-au-Prince. I was 14 when I performed for the first time in front of five hundred people. I participated in many concerts, such as “Femme” with Orlane and Emeline Michel, and “Soiree Magique de la Guitare” with the Widmaers, Raoul Denis Junior, Claude Allien, and Yole Derose. I was also the lead singer of my school choir at Roger Anglade for seven years.
As time went by, I realized that singing was part of me. My mother, who is an actress, supported me and carried me around to events. Things became more serious when I met Haitian producer Jeff Wainwright of Kreyol Music in 2002. Since then, I’ve been performing regularly and have released two albums.
Cheyna: Can you discuss one or two artists who have influenced your approach to singing?
Misty: Since I was a kid, I’ve always loved Emeline Michel, Lara Fabian, Yanick Etienne, and Yole Derose.
Cheyna: How do you describe your vocal sound to someone who has never heard you sing before?
Misty: I would describe my vocal sound as sensual, sweet, and strong at times. My voice reflects that of a young female artist reaching out to people through my music and message.
Cheyna: Your last album “Konpa a Gogo”—who was involved in that project?
Misty: My second album, Konpa a Gogo, came out at the end of April. Jeff and I were the most involved in creating, writing, conceptualizing, and producing it. Abner Louima of Babou’s Enterprises also played a big role in my career, and I give him much respect. Like with my first album, Plus près de toi, Jeff reached out to several well-known musicians to help shape the sound. I’d like to thank everyone involved, from Robert Martino and Jean Claude Jean to Thierry Cham and Kaysha. Their contributions helped make this album special.
Cheyna: Do you have your own backup band?
Misty: Yes. After different phases of performing with various musicians, by 2005 we started putting together the right team. Today I have a solid lineup that includes Ruben Vincent on drums, Sarah Bertrand on background vocals, Daniel Lebrun on bass, and talented musicians like Senders Solon and Stephane Gilles. We’ve already performed in Miami, Atlanta, and Fort Myers, and we’re even working on a live album.
Cheyna: Performing Konpa as a female artist can be intimidating. How do you handle the pressure on stage?
Misty: I just focus on being myself. I feed off the energy of the audience. Everything I sing comes from my heart and soul. It transforms me, and that’s why I can spend hours on stage singing and dancing—it’s simply part of who I am.
Cheyna: You’ve spoken before about promoters not pushing female artists enough. Do you feel this is a major problem?
Misty: Absolutely. Too often, promoters overlook women and don’t give us the same opportunities as men. Some prefer to bring in artists from the Antilles instead of supporting female talent from Haiti. I’m not against international collaboration, but I think it’s time Haitian promoters invest in their own women artists as well.
Cheyna: You’re single. Why do you love that lifestyle right now?
Misty: Because it allows me to focus on school, my career, and my band. Relationships take time and communication, and right now, my priority is music. Being single gives me the freedom to grow without distractions.
Cheyna: What separates Misty Jean from other Haitian female artists?
Misty: My simplicity and authenticity. I stay true to myself, and I also have a strong management team and musicians who believe in me. That foundation sets me apart.
Cheyna: How do you perceive the Haitian music industry overall?
Misty: The industry needs more vision and organization. Too often, it’s about making quick money rather than investing in long-term artist development. We lack proper publishing and copyright structures. And while many say language is a barrier internationally, I disagree. It’s about proper exposure and creating opportunities to showcase our music on larger stages, the way reggae and Latin music did in the ’90s.
Cheyna: Finally, Misty, what message would you like to share with your fans?
Misty: I want them to know how much I love and appreciate their support. I encourage them to keep believing in Haitian music and culture. My goal is to make them proud, and with God’s help, I will continue to represent Haiti wherever I go.
From beauty queen to Konpa star, Misty Jean has proven she has the voice, drive, and presence to succeed. With her fearless attitude, her call for more support for female artists, and her determination to take Haitian music to the world stage, Misty continues to inspire fans both at home and abroad. Her journey is just beginning, and if her vision becomes reality, she may very well be the artist to redefine what it means to be a woman in Konpa.
