Born on April 27, 1950, in Gros Morne, Haiti, Georges Loubert Chancy was destined for a life steeped in music and artistry. The son of Oreste Chancy, a guitarist, and Rosette Vernet, Loubert grew up in a nurturing environment alongside his seven siblings, where peace and family values were paramount.
Loubert’s academic journey began with the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in Gros Morne, continuing at Notre Dame De Lourdes College in Port-de-Paix, Petit Séminaire Collège Saint Martial, and Lycée Alexandre Pétion in Port-au-Prince. Later, in New York, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting Sciences from Touro College in 1987, blending his artistic pursuits with academic rigor.
Loubert’s personal life is as rich as his musical career. He married Josette Vaval in 1972, with whom he had four children, and later, in 1981, married Guirlhaine Guiglio, raising two more children together. He is a proud grandfather to six grandchildren.
A Musical Prodigy
Loubert’s journey into music began on December 21, 1968, when he first played the saxophone at Carlo Paillant’s home in Carrefour. Just ten days later, he was chosen as the saxophonist for “Les Consuls de Carrefour” and performed with them at a fair hosted by “Les Fantaisistes de Carrefour” on New Year’s Day, 1969. Remarkably, Loubert mastered the dynamics and tessitura of the saxophone within just one week.
This marked the beginning of a stellar career, during which Loubert contributed significantly to Haitian music. He joined Les Gars de Sainte Cécile and later worked with the second generation of Shleu Shleu under maestro Serge Rosenthal from 1970 to 1974, recording five iconic albums. These were later digitized in the 1990s by Fred Paul of Mini Records.
The Birth of Skah Shah
In June 1974, Loubert, alongside other Shleu Shleu musicians and supported by Rodrigue Milien of Kombit Kreyol, emigrated to New York and co-founded the legendary band Skah Shah. Known for their innovative sound and compelling performances, Skah Shah became a cornerstone of Haitian dance music.
In collaboration with Dernst Emile, Loubert honed his skills as a composer and arranger, producing timeless tracks such as Message, Pour Demain, and Yaveh. In 1980, Loubert released his first solo album, Doudou, followed by Peace and Love in 1985, and Loubert Chancy and Friends in 1990. These albums showcased his versatility and deep emotional connection to his music, featuring hits like Cry for Freedom and Souvenirs.
A Pillar of Haitian Music
Throughout his career, Loubert worked with renowned artists and groups, including Tabou Combo, System Band, and Bazouka. His contributions extended beyond performance to composition and arrangement, blending traditional Haitian rhythms with global influences.
In the 2000s, Loubert played a key role in reuniting Skah Shah for special events, including Haiti’s bicentennial independence celebrations. In 2009, he founded NuShah, a new ensemble featuring prominent Haitian musicians.
A Man of Faith and Community
Beyond his musical achievements, Loubert is deeply committed to his community and faith. As a devoted chorister at Sainte Philomène parish, he actively participates in choir activities and strives to enrich his diocese through music.
Georges Loubert Chancy’s life is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries, heal wounds, and unite people. His enduring legacy continues to inspire and shape Haitian music, making him a cherished icon in the cultural tapestry of Haiti.
