Michel Martelly

Early Life

Michel Joseph Martelly was born on February 12, 1961, in Côtes-de-Fer, Haiti, to Gerard Martelly, a Shell Oil executive, and Marie Madeleine Martelly. His grandfather, Auguste de Pradines, was a troubadour known for his comic protest songs against the U.S. occupation of Haiti from 1915 to 1934. After graduating from high school at the Institution Saint Louis de Gonzague, Martelly enlisted in the Haitian Military Academy but was expelled after an incident involving a general's daughter. He moved to the United States in 1984, where he worked in construction and briefly attended community college in Miami. Following a divorce from his first wife, he returned to Haiti in 1986, coinciding with the exile of then-president Jean-Claude Duvalier.

Music Career

Upon returning to Haiti, Martelly began his music career by playing keyboard in local venues, eventually gaining recognition for his playful romantic songs in the konpa genre. He opened a club called the Garage in Pétion-Ville and became known for his politically charged performances, including a notable appearance at a protest against the UN's involvement in Haiti. His song "Prezidan" called for a president who played compas, reflecting his political views. Martelly's flamboyant style was evident during the 1996 Carnival when he dressed in a pink wig and bra, making a statement about identity and perception.

Political Career and Later Life

Martelly's political career culminated when he served as the 47th president of Haiti from 2011 until his resignation in 2016. His presidency was marked by controversy, and in 2024, he was sanctioned by the United States for drug trafficking. Despite stepping back from music in 2006, he made a comeback in 2008 with the single "Magouyè". Martelly has four children with his wife, Sophia Saint-Rémy, and as of 2024, resides in Miami, Florida. He has received honors from Panama and Taiwan for his contributions to music and politics.