Le Quartier Français: Gwada Ragga and Roots

Words by Erin MacLeod—

Want a new year’s resolution? How about expanding your musical horizons, and your definition of Caribbean music? The French Caribbean has a heck of a lot to offer—not just zouk and traditional styles like gwo ka and biguine but, increasingly, reggae and dancehall—so don’t let the language barrier prevent you from hearing some wicked tunes. Taking a trip to Guadaloupe, this rundown of Gwada reggae is the first in a series featuring Franco-Caribbean music developments, and its various vedettes (that’s stars). LargeUp offers you quelques artistes to peruse while you practice ton français.

1. Tiwony

With last year’s album Cité Soleil (featuring a duet with Konshens), Tiwony demonstrated his commitment to roots and culture Rastafari flow. The man’s voice just begs for a one drop, and “L’Union Fait la Force” is a perfect example.

2. Saïk

But a youth, Saïk is already making his mark. Having started with the Mortenol Crew, so named for his neighborhood in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, Saïk’s style ranges from bashment ready to smooth singing. Just try to watch the tourism-office ready video for “You and Me” without wanting to take a trip to Saïk’s homeland to see for yourself.

3. Admiral T

Arguably the godfather of Gwada dancehall—or, as he puts it, the Gwadada—Admiral T has worked with Anglo Caribbean folk as well. Both Machel Montano and Busy Signal featured on his last album. His Sizzla-esque rhythmic singjay delivery and intensity make Admiral T a memorable performer and demonstrate why the man has staying power. And you don’t need to be fluent in Creole to understand the conscious message of his first 2012 single, “Gangsta”.

4. Cali P

Though the English chatting Cali P was arrested in Jamaica on charges relating to a stolen cellphone and a small amount of ganja (he also found time to record this freestyle with Capleton), it appears that the Swiss-Guadeloupan star isn’t going to give up. At least according to his latest single (see above video).