Travel the world with GlobalFEST

Emeline Michel has moved from her home in Haiti to New York and will soon be in Fort Collins to take part in globalFEST at the Lincoln Center this month. With her rich timbre and beautiful lyrics that lift up from the spirit we all share, Emeline will perform along with other Creole artists, Brushy One-String from Jamaica and Casuarina from Brazil.
Emeline explained how the turmoil in Haiti has affected her music and lyrics. “I felt heavy-hearted to see violence and chaos taking over once again, and it would be easy to have the music mirror these events. But, I must constantly remind myself that as a musician that my role and mission is also to heal, elevate, reunite. I try to counterbalance the negativity by writing of transcendence, gratitude, love and hope.”

Emeline continued, “Yesterday, I was at the Port-au-Prince Jazz festival in Haiti, which this time happened around the Presidential election, a very tense season for my country. There were more than 2000 people outside ready to sing and dance, in the midst of the all insecurity. I had goosebumps hearing them singing word for word, songs that I wrote in solitude. It was a wonderful testimony to how music is an exit, a sacred space we share. A way to light the day, and lift our spirit.”
Founded in 2003, globalFEST spotlights artists who represent diverse global styles, bringing down boundaries between countries and creating cultural opportunities for collaboration. Over the past decade, globalFEST has become one of the most dynamic global music platforms in North America. What started as an annual showcase in New York has grown into an international brand, building audiences for world music with stages at SXSW, Bonnaroo, and beyond. Emeline talked about her experience with globalFEST and touring with the other artists. “I have utmost respect for these two countries, and the musical legends who came from these lands. I am grateful and honored for this opportunity, to be part of this spicy blend. I believe that we have lots in common. And it will be a great opportunity for me to learn more about our cultural and musical differences. I intend to interview intensively my touring companions … LOL.”
The Lincoln Center will give Emeline a chance to share what she loves about Haiti. “I love the sunrise, the breeze, the countryside, the food. But, above everything else, I love the spirit of my people, their attitude toward life. We have a wicked sense of humor and we find ways to have a good laugh out of unexpected tragic situations. I guess the secret to survival is “light heart goes a long way.” Offering an experience of different traditions and people from around the world, globalFEST will also provide a platform for Emeline to reach more people and bring them in to her culture. “My heritage is rhythm, chant, dance, and short stories which also are part of Haitian oral tradition. The audience is always part of my show. To be in the moment, and create a new one together is a priceless experience for me.”