Carimi

The story so far.

Written and edited by Smokiller

Carimi is a konpa trio formed in New York City in 2001 by Carlo Vieux, Richard Cavé and Mickael Guirand, whose first names supply the band's name. The Haitian Times describes the group as blending socially conscious lyrics with traditional konpa rhythms, and its breakout hit Ayiti Bang Bang made it a household name. Albums named on Wikipedia include Bang Bang from 2001, Poze Aki, Nasty Biznis, Are U Ready?, Buzz, Invasion and Kite m' cho from 2016. Fans compared the trio to American boy bands, and its mix of English lyrics and hip hop and pop touches drew a young diaspora audience. Guirand's exit in 2016 ended the band; Cavé went on to lead Kaï and Guirand formed Vayb. A 2022 reunion at Accor Arena in Paris was overshadowed when singer Mikaben collapsed and died on stage, and on December 27, 2024, Carimi headlined UBS Arena in New York.