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Definitions by Negre Marron Records

KOMPA AND BEAT 

Kompa and Beat: The term was coined in 2018 by René Guemps, the Founding member of NYC-based independent internet record label Negre Marron Records.

Kompa and Beat refers to a captivating music genre that fuses the infectious rhythms of Kompa with the energetic beats of various genres like hip-hop, reggae, Afrobeat, and electronic music.

This unique fusion creates a melodic and rhythmic experience that transcends boundaries and ignites the dance floor.

Unleash your inner groove with Kompa and Beat! This genre offers a harmonious journey of genre blending, where traditional Kompa elements harmonize with modern beats and arrangements. Imagine the irresistible sway of Kompa melodies intertwined with pulsating hip-hop drums or the fusion of soucous-inspired guitar riffs with electronic synths.

Kompa and Beat is a celebration of rhythmic fusion, captivating listeners with its melodic vibes and infectious energy. Whether you're dancing to the beat at a lively club, enjoying it on your headphones during a commute, or discovering new tracks on curated playlists, Kompa and Beat is a genre that leaves a lasting impression.
“Join the movement and immerse yourself in the world of KOMPA AND BEAT! Experience the genre's unique sounds, explore its vibrant artist community, and let the rhythmic fusion take you on a musical journey like no other.”
KOMPRO, an Independent Management Entity (IME) and a subsidiary of Negre Marron Records in NYC, stands for "Keeping Opportunities Moving, Promoting Representation in Organizations."

It is an empowering entity that functions as a MRO for underrepresented Haitian indies and DIY artists, ensuring fair compensation and recognition for their creative work. KOMPRO serves as a central authority, authorized to collect mechanical rights royalties directly without intermediaries.

It handles most mechanical licensing and collections in Haitian music, including cross-territorial collections. Non-members of KOMPRO must license directly for mechanical collections.

The public performance collections are managed by another entity called SCOMPAM. Together, KOMPRO and SCOMPAM work to ensure comprehensive rights management and fair royalties for Haitian indie artists and DIY musicians.

Our slogan, ‘ "Empowering Haitian Indies, Driving Music Revolution.’

This organization, founded by CEO and Label Director René Guemps, is dedicated to empowering and promoting the interests of Haitian indie artists and DIY musicians.
"Thanks to KOMPRO's efforts in keeping opportunities moving and promoting representation in organizations, underrepresented Haitian indie musicians and DIY artists can now directly collect their mechanical rights royalties, while SCOMPAM handles the public performance collections for their music."
SComPAM, the Haitian Society of Songwriters, Composers, performers, producers and Authors of Music, stands as "The HAITIAN Music Industry Watchdog."

Our New York City-based Rights Administrator Entity (RAE) safeguards the rights of Haitian musicians across the USA, Canada, and beyond. Founded by René Guemps, CEO and Label director of Negre Marron Records, SComPAM is dedicated to championing the interests of the Haitian music community.

Our slogan, ‘SComPAM—Empowering Haitian Music, Preserving Creative Rights!’

As an RAE, SComPAM diligently monitors the usage of musical works, negotiates tariffs, and secures favorable conditions with users. We license protected works on behalf of our members and other represented rights holders, ensuring proper compensation. With expertise in royalty administration, licensing, performance tracking, and payment distribution, SComPAM protects the rights of songwriters, publishers, and performers.

Through licensing and vigilant monitoring, SComPAM enables the fair use of Kompa music across AM/FM bands and various pay sources. We champion the rights of Haitian Kompa songwriters, authors, lyricists, composers, performers, producers, publishers, and other rights holders. Furthermore, as an RAE, SComPAM also collects royalties for the digital performance of sound recordings, providing comprehensive protection for our music community.
“SComPAM licenses and monitors the use of Kompa music, both on AM/FM bands and through various pay sources to ensure proper compensation is provided to Haitian Kompa songwriters, authors, lyricists, composers, performers, producers, publishers, and other rights holders.”

BWA KALE REKORDZ 

BWA KALE REKORDZ (BKR) for short - is a subsidiary of NEGRE MARRON RECORDS, dedicated to supporting Haitian artists who utilize their music to advocate for social justice. Our focus on promoting and distributing conscious music sets us apart from our sister label, WANGA NÈGÈS RECORDS, which concentrates on Haitian Kompa-infused music. Our slogan, 'Bringing justice through music,' demonstrates our commitment to promoting social justice through music.

Our name BWA KALE is derived from a grassroots vigilante justice movement in Haiti that symbolizes a swift form of justice against gang violence. We do not endorse music that glorifies crime or violence, and our mission is to support and promote unsigned Haitian artists who create conscious music addressing social injustices in Haiti.

We firmly believe that music is a potent tool for raising awareness and inspiring change within our communities. Through collaborations with local recording studios and audio engineers in Haiti, we ensure that our music adheres to the highest industry standards in mixing and mastering.

As an independent record label, we provide a platform for Haitian artists who have limited access to resources to produce and distribute their music. We are focused on promoting Creole Rap, Rara-Bòday, DiaspoRara, ManifesNaval, Rap Kreyòl, Crenglish Rap, RaggaNaval, Haitian Ragga, Rabòday, Rara, Ra-Rap, Diaspo-Rap, Creospañol RAP, CRÉOLE-Trap, and Rasin (Haitian Roots) music that addresses social injustice in Haiti.
"The latest album released by BWA KALE REKORDZ artist sheds light on the ongoing social injustice issues faced by marginalized communities in Haiti."

NEGRE MARRON FOUNDATIONS 

Negre Marron Foundations (NMF) is born from the visionary spirit of Negre Marron Publishing. Our mission: Empower and uplift Haitian musicians, enriching Haitian culture. Through programs and initiatives, we provide vital support, mentorship, and resources to young musicians, fostering artistic growth.

At NMF, we believe music transforms lives and communities. We cultivate an environment where Haitian musicians thrive, harnessing creative potential and making a lasting impact. Through education, networking, and professional development, we equip artists to succeed and break barriers.

Our vision: A flourishing Haitian music industry celebrating diversity, authenticity, and innovation. We envision global recognition for Haitian talent and cultural contributions. Guided by integrity, collaboration, and social responsibility, we honor and preserve traditions, bridging gaps between artists, professionals, and audienc

Join us in Empowering Haitian Musicians. While Enriching Haitian Culture. Together, we shape a vibrant future, uniting communities and spreading the joy of Haitian music worldwide."
“Negre Marron Foundations (NMF) is the driving force behind empowering Haitian musicians and enriching Haitian culture. Together, we shape a vibrant future, uniting communities and spreading the joy of Haitian music worldwide. Join us as we uplift talented musicians, provide essential support, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Haiti.”

BWA KALE RECORDS 

BWA KALE RECORDS is a subsidiary of NEGRE MARRON RECORDS, committed to supporting Haitian artists who use their music to advocate for social justice. Our focus on promoting and distributing conscience music sets us apart from our sister label, WANGA NÈGÈS RECORDS, which focuses on Haitian Kompa-infused music. Our slogan, 'Bringing justice through music,' reflects our commitment to promoting social justice through music.

Our name BWA KALE is inspired by a grassroots vigilante justice movement in Haiti that represents a swift form of justice against gang violence. We do not support music that glorifies crime or violence, and our mission is to support and promote unsigned Haitian artists who produce conscience music addressing social injustices in Haiti.

We believe that music is a powerful tool for raising awareness and inspiring change in our communities. Through partnerships with local recording studios and audio engineers in Haiti, we ensure that our music meets the highest industry standards in mixing and mastering.

As an independent record label, we provide a platform for Haitian artists who have limited access to resources to produce and distribute their music. We are focused on promoting Creole Rap, Rap Kreyòl, Crenglish Rap, Haitian Ragga, Rabòday, Rara, Ra-Rap, Diaspo-Rap, CreoSpañol RAP (RAP an Panyòl), and Rasin (Haitian Roots) music addressing social injustice in Haiti.
At BWA KALE RECORDS, we value authenticity, social justice, creativity, and collaboration. We are committed to promoting the voices of Haitian artists who use their music to advocate for social justice in Haiti. Join us in our mission to raise awareness and inspire change through music.

WANGA NÈGÈS RECORDS 

Wanga Nègès, or the hummingbird, is a symbol of joy, playfulness, and adaptability. This tropical bird is also a powerful symbol of generosity and courage, as it takes major risks for the benefit of others.

At WANGA NÈGÉS RECORDS, our slogan is "Elevating Haitian and French-Caribbean artists to new heights", and we embody these values by providing a platform for talented artists to express themselves and connect with their audience.

As an imprint of Negre Marron Records, our parent label, we specialize in exclusively HAITIAN KOMPA INFUSED music.

Founded by René Guemps in 2023 and based in New York City, WANGA NÈGÉS RECORDS is committed to supporting independent Haitian artists by helping them find a record label in the US to represent and distribute their music via digital service providers like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

We partner with Négresse Marron Distribution, a company that offers free distribution while taking a 20% commission on royalties. This ensures that artists and record labels keep all legal rights to their music.

To maintain the highest standards in the music industry, WANGA NÈGÉS RECORDS requires all music to be fully mixed and mastered before distribution.

Our focus on creativity, authenticity, and innovation sets us apart from other record labels.

Join us in celebrating the rich and vibrant culture of Haitian and French-Caribbean music with WANGA NÈGÉS RECORDS.
"I just discovered this amazing new Haitian KOMPA INFUSED artist on WANGA NÈGÈS RECORDS, they have such a unique sound!”