Montreal’s Gamelin Garden came alive on July 27th as the city played host to a musical extravaganza that bridged cultures and celebrated the vibrant essence of Haiti. The event was none other than a captivating performance by the Haitian Canadian singer-songwriter, guitarist, and record producer, Wesli, in collaboration with the Haiti Festival.
Wesli, a musical maestro renowned for his eclectic fusion of genres, mesmerized the audience with his dynamic stage presence and unparalleled artistry. His musical journey reached a pinnacle when he clinched the prestigious Juno Award for World Music Album of the Year at the Juno Awards in 2019, an honor bestowed upon him for his exceptional creation, “Rapadou Kreyol.”
The iconic Gamelin Garden, nestled in the heart of Montreal, Quebec, became the perfect backdrop for this cultural celebration. Situated adjacent to the bustling Metro Berri, the garden’s open-air setting provided an ideal arena for Wesli’s melodies to reverberate and enchant the gathered crowd.
The Haiti Festival, a testament to the city’s rich cultural diversity, played a pivotal role in bringing this musical extravaganza to life. With a mission to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Haitian culture within the Montreal community, the festival succeeded in creating an immersive experience that was both educational and entertaining.
During the 90-minute performance, Wesli skillfully wove together a tapestry of musical styles, seamlessly blending world music, afrobeat, hip-hop, soul, rara, and Haitian roots music. Each note was a tribute to his heritage and a celebration of the power of music to transcend boundaries.
The event not only captivated the audience in the moment but was also immortalized with the cameras of Alain Guillot from Alain Photography. Alain Guillot captured with photo and video, the energy, emotion, and essence of the performance, ensuring that the magic of the evening would live on through the visual medium.
As the last notes of Wesli’s performance faded into the Montreal night, the echoes of his music lingered, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to witness the spectacle. The collaboration between Wesli, Gamelin Garden, and the Haiti Festival had successfully woven together a symphony of cultures, reminding us all of the unifying power of music and the beauty of sharing and celebrating diverse traditions.
More videos