His Talent for Blending Haitian Music with Electronic Dance Music
Michaël Brun was born on May 19, 1992, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Growing up in a musically rich environment, he was influenced by a fusion of traditional Haitian rhythms and international sounds. His father, Patrick Brun, was a member of the Haitian konpa band Skandal, which exposed him to the depth of Haiti’s musical heritage from an early age. His mother, of Guyanese descent, introduced him to various genres, including classic rock, disco, and modern pop.
As a child, Brun began playing musical instruments such as the piano, guitar, and violin. While initially on a path toward medicine, attending Culver Military Academy in Indiana and later Davidson College in North Carolina, his deep passion for music led him to leave school and pursue a full-time career as a DJ and music producer.
Rise to Fame
Brun’s professional career took off in 2011 with his release of Shades of Grey.” His talent blending Haitian music with electronic dance music (EDM) quickly gained recognition. He gained international attention through collaborations with renowned artists, including Dirty South, Tiësto, and Axwell. His track “Rift,” a collaboration with Dirty South, became a breakout hit, climbing the Beatport Top 10 charts.
In 2013, he released his debut EP, Gravity, which peaked at #2 on Beatport’s charts. This success solidified his reputation as an up-and-coming EDM star with a unique Haitian influence.
Promoting Haitian Music and Culture
Brun is a DJ and an advocate for Haitian music and culture. In 2014, he launched his record label, Kid Coconut, to highlight Haitian and Caribbean artists globally. He has been instrumental in merging Haitian genres such as rara and konpa with contemporary electronic beats, introducing the world to the sounds of Haiti.
One of his most notable contributions to global music was co-producing “Positivo,” the 2018 FIFA World Cup theme song, with J Balvin. This brought his Haitian roots to a massive international audience. His debut album, Lokal (2019), further showcased Haiti’s vibrant music scene, featuring collaborations with local artists to promote the island’s rich musical traditions.
Philanthropy and Cultural Impact
Brun has used his platform to uplift Haitian youth and provide opportunities for local artists. He is an Artists for Peace and Justice ambassador, supporting education initiatives at Haiti’s Audio Institute.
In 2016, he launched the “Wherever I Go” tour, a groundbreaking initiative that brought international attention to Haitian music while providing economic opportunities for local artists. He also curates Spotify’s “Haitian Heat” playlist, further amplifying Haitian talent.
He has expanded his impact in recent years through his “Bayo” tour. This festival-like experience highlights Caribbean and African music while fostering a sense of cultural unity within the Haitian diaspora.
Recent Projects and Legacy
In 2023, Brun continued elevating Haitian and Caribbean culture through his “Bayo” tour, which has been described as the biggest Haitian diaspora festival. His latest projects, including the album Fami Summer and its hit single Jessica, showcase his ability to bridge traditional sounds with contemporary global music trends.
Michaël Brun’s journey from a small island nation to international stardom is a testament to his dedication to elevating Haitian music globally. His work continues to break barriers, proving that Haiti’s cultural and musical richness deserves a place on the world stage.
