Francis Mercier Goes Platinum, King H 509 Sounds the “Lambi,” Jean Jean Roosevelt in Montreal

HAITI

Haitian-Canadian artist King H 509 released his new single “Lambi” on February 25, 2026. The track draws on the symbolism of the conch shell used during the Haitian Revolution to rally insurgents. Through this release, the artist aligns his work with themes of negritude, Afro-Caribbean heritage and Black sovereignty. The single precedes an EP scheduled for release in May 2026 and accompanies preparations for the “La Saga Franco” tour, set to run from March 3 to April 2, 2026.

The third edition of the evangelical concert Amazing Grace was held on February 28, 2026, at the Centre Convention of NH El Rancho. Performers included Salil Lirah, Ruth of the group Les Élus, dancer Reynald Moïse, Rosena Josselin Orys and rapper Frè Gabe. Organizers highlighted discussions around the role of women in gospel music, the evolution of stage performances and the economic impact generated by the event.

Seventeen-year-old Haitian goalkeeper Grant Léveillé has signed with D.C. United as a homegrown player through the 2028–2029 season, with options extending to 2030–2031. A product of the club’s academy system, he becomes the 23rd homegrown player in the franchise’s history in Major League Soccer. Léveillé represented Haiti at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar last year.

DIASPORA

Haitian DJ and producer Francis Mercier presented his platinum plaque in Paris for “Premier Gaou (Remix)”, in collaboration with Ivorian group Magic System. The certification, formalized on January 12, 2026, by the Syndicat national de l’édition phonographique, confirms that the track surpassed 30 million equivalent streams in France. Released in March 2021, the remix offers an afro-house and electronic reinterpretation of the early 2000s hit. A performance is scheduled for April 25 at the Zénith de Paris as part of the “Solèy” tour.

Haitian singer-songwriter Fhenry Hboy is participating in the NPR Tiny Desk Contest with the song “Cry.” The submitted version features a live performance centered on voice and piano. The competition, organized by NPR Music, aims to provide international exposure to independent artists.

Jean Jean Roosevelt is set to perform on March 22, 2026, at Place des Arts in Montreal, in the Salle Claude-Léveillée. The acoustic concert is scheduled for 7 p.m., with tickets priced at $50.

INTERNATIONAL

The 32nd edition of the Screen Actors Guild Awards took place on March 2 in Los Angeles. The film Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler, won the award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast. Michael B. Jordan received the award for Best Actor. Jessie Buckley was honored for her role in Hamnet, while Amy Madigan received the supporting actress award for Weapons. The television series The Pitt and The Studio were also recognized. Harrison Ford received a lifetime achievement award. The ceremony precedes the Academy Awards scheduled for March 15.

Soraya Ades.

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