Gary Didier Perez, 59, a beloved figure in the Haitian Music Community, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 28, 2025 while at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hamilton.
He was the firstborn of ten children to his mother, Anna Clerveau, and the eldest of seven children to his father, Theodore Pierre. From an early age, Gary embraced the role of leader and protector within his family, a role he carried proudly throughout his life.
He was a devoted father of five and a loving grandfather to three beautiful grandchildren, who were the joy of his heart. Gary cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren, and he often expressed his love through encouragement, wisdom, and kindness. Known for lifting others up with his words and actions, he found great fulfillment in complementing and motivating those around him, always seeking to inspire confidence and hope.
Gary’s passion for music and artistry defined his legacy, but his true greatness was equally measured by his love for his family and the countless lives he touched through compassion and generosity. A legend in his own right, Gary was deeply loved not only by his relatives but also by friends, fans, and the wider Haitian community who admired his spirit, talent, and humanity.He leaves behind a legacy of music, love, and encouragement that will forever live on through his family, his grandchildren, and the community that continues to celebrate his remarkable life.
Predeceased by his father, Theodore Pierre Perez; he is survived by his mother, Anna Clerveau Perez;
his Aunt Delzane Joseph; his children, Dounia Perez, Sygen Didier Perez, Enamoune Synn’n Olivia Perez, Nih Alessandro Didier Perez, and Rahmir Didier Perez; grandchildren, Gabriella Perez, Annayah Perez and Ryan Perez; as well as many siblings, nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends, all over the world.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Buklad-Merlino Yardville Memorial Home, 30 Yardville-Allentown Road, Yardville, NJ.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 626 South Olden Ave., Trenton, NJ 08629.
Ricardo Franck, affectionately known as “Ti Plume,” was born on February 8, 1952, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. He was the third son of Joseph Franck, also known as Caillou, and Sonia Charles, growing up in a large family of eight boys and two girls. Music was woven into the fabric of the household. His father, a musician himself, taught his sons to play instruments as a way to keep them away from the dangers of the streets and the political unrest of the time.
The Franck home soon became known as a musical family in Haiti, where siblings played together daily, refining their talents under the guidance of “Pere Caillou.” Even at the age of 12, Ricardo was already showing remarkable promise, famously performing during Mardi Gras atop the Yoyo float, signaling the rise of one of Haiti’s greatest guitar players.
Musical Journey
Music and Ricardo were inseparable. At first, his father discouraged him from joining bands outside the family, believing he was too young. But Ricardo’s talent and passion were undeniable. His breakthrough came when he joined the Ambassadeurs, where he earned the nickname “Ti Plume” (Little Feather). The name, inspired by his lighthearted stage antics and his feathery dance style while playing guitar, became his signature.
Ricardo’s guitar style was unique. Using three fingers to carry the melody and two for accompaniment, he created the impression of two guitars playing at once. Over time, he performed with multiple bands and eventually formed his own group, Les Bi Tchos, which quickly made a mark by winning a carnival prize in its early days.
His versatility set him apart. Ricardo recorded and performed across genres ranging from Classical and Troubadour to Kompa, Rock, Jazz, and Racine. Over the course of his career, he contributed to more than 50 recordings and performed internationally, cementing his place as one of Haiti’s most sought-after session players and solo artists.
A Man of Wit, Wisdom, and Humanity
While Ricardo’s music defined much of his life, his personality left an equally lasting impression. Known for his distinctive mustache, which became a trademark, Ricardo was as much a philosopher as he was a musician. He loved to read, immersing himself in politics, social issues, and esoteric studies. He was also a passionate tennis fan and a well-traveled man whose experiences broadened his perspective.
Above all, Ricardo loved people. His interactions with others informed his songwriting, allowing him to blend humor, satire, sensitivity, and love into his lyrics. He had a knack for making others laugh, believing joy was a better choice than sadness in a world full of tragedies. Those close to him described him as jovial, witty, and deeply compassionate, qualities that earned him admiration from friends, family, and fans alike.
Legacy and Farewell
Ricardo Franck’s legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and joy. His musical contributions spanned decades and genres, inspiring countless musicians and captivating audiences in Haiti and abroad. To many, he was not just Ricardo, but the joyful “Ti Plume,” a figure who embodied the soul of Haitian music.
He is survived by his beloved companion, Carline Kiel, his daughters Ange-Marie, Alexie, Roberta, and Kristina, and his grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brothers Mario, Reynold, Ralph, Snide, and Lacordiere, his sisters Fifi, Marielle, and Anne Florence, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He joins in rest his parents, Joseph and Sonia, and his brothers Wagner, Sony, and Evans.
For the Haitian music community, the passing of Ricardo Franck marks the loss of a true angel of music. As his nephew Philippe poignantly said, “I am going to miss my uncle Ricardo and his moustache.”
Sunrise, Florida, December 16, 2023
On a somber Saturday afternoon, the All Saints Catholic Church in Sunrise, Florida, witnessed an outpouring of admiration and grief as family, friends, and fans came to bid farewell to Jean Michel St Victor, the revered Haitian musician affectionately known as Zouzoul. The funeral brought together a community united by music, memory, and the legacy of a voice that resonated deeply across generations.
Delivered by Lesly Condé, former Haitian Consul General in Chicago and a close confidant of the family, the tribute offered both reverence and warmth. Condé reflected on Zouzoul’s legacy:
“We gather to say a final farewell to a man whose work now forms part of our rich artistic heritage… A mourning filled with respect, admiration, and unalterable gratitude to an irreplaceable legend.”
Recounting teenage memories of Zouzoul performing in Les Cayes with his band Skah Shah, Condé spoke of Zouzoul’s humility, charisma, and the lasting bond between their families before he had even become a household name.
Born August 8, 1945, in Cap Haïtien, Zouzoul began his musical path with the band Shleu Shleu before rising to prominence as a lifelong member of Skah Shah Number One, the Compas Direct band that played a pivotal role in Haiti’s musical heritage. His rich voice and magnetic presence cemented him as a cultural touchstone.
As Condé reminded the mourners:
“Skah Shah has become an institution, and Zouzoul an international icon. There are voids that can never be filled.”
Zouzoul passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at age 78, at his home in Florida, leaving behind a musical legacy and an ache of collective loss.
His death marked a poignant close to a chapter in Haitian music, a narrative of artistry, endurance, and impact. Condé’s final words anchored the moment in faith and unity:
“The end always comes too quickly when we are so loved… let’s ask the Lord to receive Jean Michel St Victor… to grant him an eternity of harmony, peace, and love.”
No obituary can capture all that a voice like Zouzoul’s carried. Not just the songs, but the presence. The tribute offered at All Saints was not just a farewell; it was a recognition that though his body is gone, his music lives on in memory, on stage, in hearts across Haiti and the diaspora.
Daniel Larivière, the iconic lead singer and composer for Haiti’s beloved Orchestre Tropicana, passed away on April 6, 2023, following a prolonged illness, at the age of 77. He was born on February 10, 1946, in Cap-Haïtien, and went on to define an era of Haitian compas music.
Larivière’s deep, melodious voice and magnetic stage presence made him an enduring figure in Haitian culture. Over the decades, he composed nearly 200 songs, many of which became timeless classics, including “Sérénade des Mélomanes,” “24 Décembre,” “Limonade,” “Mizè Malere,” “Frè Kot Papa,” “Erzulie,” “Doux Tropic,” and others—all staples at festivals, weddings, and celebrations across Haiti.
He began his musical journey in the clubs and Carnivals of Cap-Haïtien, singing with Shleu-Shleu before joining Tropicana, where he served as musical director and lead vocalist. His creative vision and heartfelt lyrics played a pivotal role in shaping the orchestra’s distinctive sound and national acclaim. He was also honored as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, recognizing his cultural influence and artistic contributions.
News of his death brought an outpouring of grief throughout Haiti. The Ministry of Culture lamented the loss of a musical titan whose impact resonated across generations, while fellow artists like Klass praised Larivière as a legend and a genius of Haitian music. ([turn0search1], [turn0search2])
Beyond his public achievements, Larivière was known as a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Suzelle J. Lariviere, plus children including celebrated musicians Arly Larivière, David Larivière, and Daniel Jr., who continue his musical legacy.
Daniel Larivière’s music lives on as a testament to passion, creativity, and enduring cultural influence. His voice, filled with emotion and nuance, became part of the Haitian soul. While he may be gone, his melodies remain immortal—testaments to a life that gave joy and song to countless hearts.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Daniel Larivière (Maestro) |
| Born | February 10, 1946, Cap-Haïtien, Haiti |
| Died | April 6, 2023, aged 77 |
| Career | Lead singer and composer for Orchestre Tropicana |
| Notable Works | “Sérénade des Mélomanes,” “24 Décembre,” “Limonade,” “Mizè Malere,” “Frè Kot Papa,” “Erzulie,” “Doux Tropic” |
| Honors | UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador |
| Survived by | Wife Suzelle J. Larivière; children Arly, David, Daniel Jr. |
Haitian singer-songwriter and record producer, known as Mikaben, died at age 41 on October 15, 2022, after collapsing on stage during a performance with the group CaRiMi in Paris, France. The cause of his death was a suspected heart attack, and emergency services were unable to revive him. Mikaben was the son of Haitian singer Lionel Benjamin and was well-known for his ability to sing in multiple languages and for his contributions to Haitian music and culture, including his song “Ayti Se” (Haiti is).
Procréé à travers les tendances musicales qui ont prévalu dans la première demie des années 1960, Léon Millien a pris son envol dans l’euphorie de la vague yé-yé ; avec pour corollaires le rock, le twist, le boogaloo parmi d’autres. Entre les errances de jazz et de bossa-nova ; pendant que le konpa de Nemours, la kadans ranpa de Sicot et la meringue moderne de Raoul Guillaume menaient la danse ; alors que « Jazz des Jeunes » est toujours actif. C’est dans ce flux que Léon s’est employé à se façonner un style de bassiste entreprenant ; l’ayant autorisé après la ronde des petits groupes obscurs, d’être admis au sein des « Manfoubens ». Petit groupe du Bas-Peu-de-Chose à l’avenue Christophe, qui est une initiative des frères Smith et Frankie J. Baptiste. Dans lequel Léon performe à côté de son ami et voisin de l’avenue Muller, Serge Rosenthal.
Et lorsqu’il a fallu prendre un détour supplémentaire, l’ensemble s’est rebaptisé « Les Shleu-Shleu » dans l’entrain des vogues gogo et mini. De là Léon a pris son art à un palier supérieur dans l’élaboration eurythmique du 4/3 et le raz-de-marée qui a enclenché cette page singulière de la musique haïtienne qu’est l’épopée des mini-jazz. En effet, la fièvre du ‘’shleushleuton’’ va constituer le catalyseur d’une filiation revendiquant sa propre identité. Le groupe l’aura gratifié des hits : vacances, Alfredo, Maria del alma, Haïti mon pays, Haïti terre de soleil, Ti Carme, Maille, dans la vie, Boutilliers, café au lait, devinez etc. qui ont représenté de vrais hymnes d’ascendance. Et que Léon a su auréoler de sa précision et d’une touche qui a su relier les intervalles.
Pourtant, après avoir montré la voie à toute une génération dans deux albums représentatifs du moment, Léon et « Shleu-Shleu » avaient simplement besoin de respirer ailleurs. Ce qui a demeuré une constante tout au cours des ‘’sixies’’ ; au cours desquels tous les segments de la société ont été obligés de fuir la ‘’papadocratie’’. C’est ainsi qu’après le départ du chanteur Peddy qui a consolidé la place de Zouzoul et celui du maestro Tony Moise remplacé par Fito Sadrac, le groupe, à l’exception du guitariste Rosenthal et de Zouzoul, s’est installé en 1970 à NY, suite à une tournée. C’est là que Léon et confrères, ont rebondi pour rallier une communauté en gestation dans l’album :’’ Grille ta cigarette’’ qui fut la première œuvre venue du ‘’state’’ à casser la baraque au pays ; après les initiatives de Pépé Bayard.
Conséquemment, Léon a entretenu des études musicales dans son cheminement avec le groupe. En s’acquittant dans des évolutions didactiques et la majoration de son talent. Et parallèlement avec des « Shleu-Shleu » qui ont connu une mutation par rapport à la soul music et au pop. C’est surtout l’époque des retours sporadiques au pays, où dans sa maison pas loin de la mienne, il recevait des amis tels : Jeannot, F. Courtois et autres. Venant s’acquérir des techniques apportées d’ailleurs ; tout en se rendant compte de sa formidable progression. Entre temps pour l’Original « Shleu-Shleu », entre deux ou trois albums qui leur ont permis de maintenir le cap. C’est l’imposition du « Tabou Combo » devenu le favori. Puis, du « Skah-Shah » devenu la coqueluche.
C’est donc la fin de cycles pour le premier mini-jazz dont les membres sont dispersés dans d’autres associations. Qu’elles soient : « Essence » avec Tony Moise, « Mystic » avec Peddy, « Thamad Fever » avec Smith. Quant à Léon, il continue de cultiver sa contrebasse, tout en devenant un régulier à la New Muse School of Music. Sorte de temple du jazz et d’autres manifestations ethno culturelles à Brooklyn ; entre Bedford ave, et Eastern P’way. Où se bousculaient entre la fin des ‘’seventies’’ jusqu’au début des 1980, les musiciens et adeptes avides de notions musicales, sous la bienveillante attention du prof. Alexandre Etienne (Sansann mon prof, guide de mes premiers pas à New York, et mon ami qui a rendu l’âme le dimanche 20 septembre 2020 aux environs de 11 heures PM). Lorsque Léon s’embarquait dans d’extravagants sortilèges de jazz ; faisant étalage de son savoir-faire qui lui ont valu l’adhésion des doctes.
Puis, succombant sous la tentation du ‘’groove’’ ambiant, il renoue avec le konpa au sein de la nouvelle formation « Sham Sham » dans les ‘’eighties’’, et, qui n’a pas eu l’écho escompté. Tout en continuant à collaborer dans d’autres projets collectifs. Incluant l’œuvre: ’’Exodus\Le zouk’’ du tandem Gary Résil et Kapi. Avant de prendre un long sabbatique qui s’est mué en éclipse permanente dans un coin de la Floride. Terre de retraite des musicien
Décès ce jeudi 09 septembre 2021, du Maestro Isnard Douby, figure emblématique du Compas Direct, trompettiste, chanteur, auteur, compositeur, ex-membre de “Les Fréres Déjean de Pétion-ville”, fondateur et chef d’orchestre de System Band.
The Ministry of Culture mourns the departure of the talented musician, Marc André Lamarre at the age of 90, on June 9, 2021.
A native of Saint-Marc, he was the 12th of 15 children. Between Marc and Haitian music, it’s a love story. In the gallery of musicians of the 1950s who contributed to the enrichment of our musical heritage, the name of Marc Lamarre appears in the list is essential.
Passionate about music, author, composer, Maestro, Conductor, Marc André Lamarre had the chance to know and especially to work with all the big names in Haitian music: Raoul Guillaume and the Guillaume brothers, Nono Lamy, Michel Desgrottes, Guy Durosier, Les frères Dor, Nemours Jean Baptiste, Webert Sicot and Jazz des Jeunes, to name but a few.
“Haïti en Musique”, the latest production by Marc André Lamarre is a living testimony of his contribution to the influence and dissemination of Haitian Music. History will remember his name.
He published his very first collection of a series of books on music in his residence at Delmas 33 opposite the Hôpital la Paix : “Haiti en musique”, on October 25, 2020, when he was about to turn 91 .
His departure is a great loss for Haitian music and leaves a great void at the National Institute of Music of Haiti (INAMUH). Pradel Henriquez, the Minister of Culture presents his sympathies to the family of the deceased, to relatives and to all his fellow musicians affected by his departure.
Décès ce jeudi 09 septembre 2021, du Maestro Isnard Douby, figure emblématique du Compas Direct, trompettiste, chanteur, auteur, compositeur, ex-membre de “Les Fréres Déjean de Pétion-ville”, fondateur et chef d’orchestre de System Band.
We just got word that famed Haitian guitar player Ti-polis died this morning in Miami. Emergency rescue operators reportedly found him in a pool of blood this morning. Mr. Nosile, one of Haiti’s most famous guitar player gained recognition while playing with “Les Freres Dejan.” He later played with Gypsies, les Freres Dejean, Dixie Band, DP Express, GP Express, Missile 747, and Anna Pierre. He subsequently traveled all over the world playing in several Haitian, Caribbean, and African groups. Most recently Polis joined the group Nu-Look in Miami while participating on several studio projects. He lived briefly in the Washington DC area with a group called JP Express after the death of Ti-Manno.
Guy Durosier, a versatile Haitian singer and organist whom Edith Piaf once called ”the living breath of Haiti,” died on Thursday at his home in Bothell, a suburb of Seattle. He was 68.
The cause was complications from pulmonary cancer, said his son Robert.
In a career more than 50 years long, Mr. Durosier also played the saxophone and composed music. Like most Haitian musicians, he had an eclectic style, ranging from big band sounds to Cuban music of the 50’s.
