Interview: Prophete
Raised in Haiti before moving to Los Angeles, Prophete grew up with a foot in two separate worlds. He seeks to translate these cultures and influences more universally, channeling reggae, jazz, and classic soul into something entirely his own. As a singer, producer, songwriter, engineer, and multi-instrumentalist, Prophete enjoys bringing his holistic vision to a project, as well as collaborating in all types of creative capacities.
What led to you becoming an artist?
There’s freedom in being an artist. Being an artist allows me to be myself and feel things that I can only feel through music. I left Haiti in 2010 after the earthquake, I stayed with my aunt in West Palm Beach, Florida. I had the opportunity to accompany my cousin Sanders who’s the lead singer/guitarist for the Haitian band Harmonik. That’s where I got exposed to the traveling musician/superstar life. Seeing people react to the music, and yell my cousin’s name, I wanted that for myself.
What inspires your music?
My music is inspired by loss, depression, happiness, hope. I tend to write a lot about how I feel at the moment that I am feeling it. My wife also inspires me. I try to stay away from politics, not a big fan of that.
Who are some of your influences?
John Legend, Carlos Santana, George Benson, BélO, Dener Ceide, Sanders Solon, Anderson Paak, Alicia Keys, Queen, Daniel Caesar, Tom Misch, Sergio Mendes, Fabrice Rouzier.
What are some of your favorite memories from your career?
Getting accepted into Berklee for their masters in music production was a big win for me because I was going through a very tough time at the end of 2018. I had the chance to play on stage with Wyclef Jean at Umass Lowell when he visited. I used to play with this band called Slow Loris back when I was at Umass and we had a couple of great shows most notably at HardRock Boston. My song Lavi Ayiti made it to the finals.
What have been some of the greatest challenges of your career?
Staying consistent with putting in the work. Sometimes, major events happen in my life that slow me down. Finances to invest in my music, social media to promote my music
Which of your songs/eps or albums is your favorite? Why is it your favorite?
Lavi Ayiti is my favorite song because of the message that it conveys. It talks about all the hardship that some people in Haiti have to endure in order to provide for their families but it can apply to almost every parent in the world.
What are you most excited to bring to your fans in the next year?
Hopefully a new side of my personality. Channeling inner experiences that people can relate to with music that they can also vibe to.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
Produce more music for other artists, Release my album, make a music video for one of my songs and grow a fanbase.
How can your fans best support you right now?
Streaming on Spotify and Apple Music, sharing with others on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.
Prophete’s Links: