Hey music lovers! 🌍✨ If you’ve ever felt the pulse of NOLA’s vibrant streets, you’ll know just how deeply intertwined the sounds of Haitian culture are with the heartbeat of this city. One name that resonates profoundly is “RAM Haiti” (Rara Artificial Memory), the legendary mizik rasin band that, although they may have left New Orleans, continues to inspire and influence the music scene here.
RAM’s Rhythm in NOLA
Founder Richard A. Morse, who left us in 2024, was a visionary in blending Haitian Vodou-rock and rara rhythms with global inspirations. RAM’s explosive performances at iconic festivals like Jazz Fest were a celebration of heritage, drawing parallels between Haitian rasin music and NOLA’s own Afro-Caribbean roots—from Mardi Gras Indians to the rich tapestry of Congo Square drumming.
Even though RAM’s physical presence may have faded, tracks like “Fèy” and “Zanj” resonate as powerful anthems of cultural pride and resistance. 🎺✨
Why the Music Lives On
Haitian and New Orleans cultures are like family, both rooted in West African traditions and a shared history of using music as a form of rebellion. The powerful sound of rara horns mirrors NOLA’s brass bands, while the drumbeats echo the soulful rhythms of Congo Square.
Just as New Orleans has kept jazz alive through challenges, Haitians have preserved rasin music through their own struggles. Bands like Boukman Eksperyans and Boukan Ginen ensure that this powerful legacy continues.
And let’s not forget the influence of Haitian musicians in NOLA today! Artists like Leyla McCalla and Win Butler from Arcade Fire are all part of that rich legacy, drawing inspiration from RAM’s unforgettable sound. The rhythm of rara parades still fills the air in Brooklyn, Miami, and New Orleans, reminding us that the music never dies.
A Lasting Message
RAM’s profound message, “Pran ka ou” (Take care of your soul), is more than just a lyric—it’s a rallying cry against oppression and a prayer for freedom. It’s a bridge connecting Haiti and its diaspora to the vibrant heart of New Orleans.
So, while RAM may no longer physically roam the streets of NOLA, their spirit dances on, reminding us that in the world of music, true legacies never fade. 💖🎶 #RAMHaiti #MizikRasin #NOLAMusic #CulturalLegacy #TakeCareOfYourSoul
