Rara Lakay is a Haitian roots band that has been a cultural cornerstone in Miami since its inception on April 17, 2003. On that pivotal Thursday before Good Friday, the group gathered enthusiastic fans and performed for hours in the streets of Little Haiti, igniting a vibrant tradition that has endured for over two decades.
Their music, deeply rooted in Haiti’s history, originates from the colonial era on the island of Hispaniola. Rara developed as a response to European Mardi Gras celebrations, with its season commencing on Ash Wednesday and culminating during Easter Week. The band’s performances preserve this cultural essence, blending Afro-based rhythms with Taino influences to celebrate and share Haiti’s rich heritage.
Rara music is characterized by its dynamic and rhythmic sound, centered around the cylindrical bamboo trumpets known as vaksin, accompanied by drums, maracas, güiras, and metal bells. Through these traditional elements, Rara Lakay brings the soul of Haiti’s festive traditions to audiences far beyond its borders.
Based in Little Haiti, Miami, Rara Lakay has played a pivotal role in fostering community engagement and cultural expression. Their processions, with infectious beats and vibrant energy, are a staple of local events like the monthly “Sounds of Little Haiti” festival held at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex. These events not only entertain but also strengthen the cultural ties within the Haitian diaspora.
In addition to their Miami performances, Rara Lakay has brought their artistry to international stages, representing Haitian culture at prestigious events in England, New Orleans, New York, and beyond. They have also graced stages at the New Orleans Jazz Festival and the Miami Kompa Festival, amplifying the sounds of Haitian Rara music on a global scale.
For 21 years, Rara Lakay has proudly displayed Haitian culture through their music in the United States and internationally. Their dedication extends beyond entertainment to education, collaborating with organizations like the Little Haiti Cultural Complex and Tradyisyon Lakou Lakay Inc. to teach younger generations about Rara music. These efforts ensure the transmission of this rich cultural tradition through youth Rara bands.
Through their enduring commitment to cultural preservation and artistic excellence, Rara Lakay has become a vibrant bridge between the Haitian diaspora and their roots, connecting traditional Haitian music with diverse audiences and ensuring its legacy for generations to come.
Rara Lakay Members
The group comprises talented musicians, each contributing to the unique and dynamic sound of Rara Lakay:
Drums: Wesner Charles, Emile Wilnord, Luc J. Cedor, Peterson Honore, Max Laurenceau
Percussion: Armani Emile, Pascal Elison, Frantz Desire, Rams Cyrille, Willy Moise
Guiros: Mike Smith, Alexis Gerald, Willy Moise
Bass (Bamboo): Kitcher Cyrille
Cones: Adrien Vallon, Woosny Grange, Louis Jackendy, Boniface Romane, Alain Medard, Jackson, Claudy Ponotte, Marseille, Peterson Joseph, James Carrier, Chenel Belizaire, Rotchild Festa, Luvertu Rene
Bamboo: Randy Lorquet
Shaker: Benjamin Martino
