A Star-Studded Night of Celebration, Cultural Pride, and Emotional Tribute
Brooklyn, NY — On Saturday, June 28, internationally acclaimed Haitian DJ and producer Michaël Brun brought his signature event, BAYO, to one of New York City’s most iconic stages—Barclays Center. What began as a spontaneous street party in Haiti has now matured into a full-scale diasporic celebration of Caribbean music and identity, cementing Brun’s role as one of the most visionary curators of Haitian culture today.
With nearly 80% of the 19,000-seat arena filled according to the venue, the festival’s Brooklyn debut represented a bold leap from open-air gatherings to a world-class indoor venue. True to tradition, the lineup remained a secret until the artists took the stage, an intentional move that deepened the communal excitement. As the lights dimmed and the beats dropped, the crowd erupted, waving Haitian flags and dancing in unison with joy.
A Vibe Like No Other: Stars, Surprises, and Sound
This year’s BAYO featured over 30 performances from a remarkable blend of Haitian stars and Caribbean icons. Attendees were treated to electrifying sets from Annie Alerte, Paul Beaubrun, Rutshelle Guillaume, Arly Larivière, Trouble Boy, Alan Cavé, Richard Cavé, Shabba, Tony Mix, T-Vice, J. Perry, Kenny Haiti, Haiti Twoubadour, and, of course, Michaël Brun himself.
Though the night included a few minor sound issues, the overwhelming consensus among fans and critics alike was that BAYO was a resounding success. The energy was electric, and the connection between performers and audience was palpable.
A standout moment came during a touching tribute by Brun’s sister, honoring both the late Michael Benjamin (Mikaben) and their recently departed mother. Thousands of phone lights lit up the arena in emotional unison, as fans paid their respects. The gesture resonated deeply with Haitians worldwide, transforming the arena into a space of collective remembrance and pride.
A Personal Milestone for Brun
This edition of BAYO held special significance for Michaël Brun; it was his first major performance since the passing of his mother, Sharon Andrea Lee-Brun, who bravely fought cancer until late last year. “This was one of the last things we spoke about,” Brun shared. “There’s a moment for her in the show that’s gonna be special.”
The emotional tribute reminded many in the crowd of the quiet sacrifices made by immigrant parents. Brun’s story, born in Haiti, raised with a deep cultural appreciation, and now performing for tens of thousands, is a reflection of so many dreams nurtured in the Haitian diaspora.
Designing a Cultural Spectacle
Brun approached the Barclays show not just as a concert, but as an immersive cultural experience. Collaborating with Haitian visual artist Steven Baboun, the event featured a stage design themed around transportation and migration, symbolizing the journeys, both literal and emotional, that define the Haitian and Caribbean experience.
“The arena is like a blank canvas,” Brun explained. “In a block party, it’s all chaos and community. But in an arena, every single detail has to connect. You’re building a spectacle, but you’re also preserving a spirit.”
More Than a Party: BAYO as Protest and Platform
BAYO took place just days after the Trump administration’s controversial decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over half a million Haitians. For many attendees, especially those from nearby neighborhoods like Flatbush and Crown Heights, BAYO was more than a night of music. It became an expression of resilience, identity, and defiance.
At a time when Caribbean immigrants face heightened political pressure, Brun’s event stood as a powerful reminder of their cultural impact and strength.
“This show is about giving—giving back to the culture, the people, and the history that shaped me,” Brun declared. “Haiti is my heart, and I’ll never stop repping it.”
A Defining Moment for Haitian Music
BAYO’s move to Barclays joins a larger trend of Caribbean artists commanding major U.S. venues. From Vybz Kartel’s sold-out shows to Buju Banton’s arena tours, Caribbean music is reaching new heights—and BAYO is at the forefront of that movement. For Haitian music, in particular, this night marked a powerful affirmation that we belong on the biggest stages.
As fans exited the arena—still singing, still celebrating—it was clear that BAYO had accomplished something greater than entertainment. It had united generations, amplified Haitian voices, and delivered a night that will echo through the culture for years to come.
Stay tuned to HMI Magazine for exclusive interviews, concert reviews, and in-depth coverage of the Haitian Music Industry.
By The HMI Magazine Editorial Team
Such a nice article!
Well said, BAYO was a sign of resilience. Thank you Michael Brun and Thand you the HMI Magazine for such a great report. The website is very nice. One of the nicest Haitian website. Mes compliments.