Beethova Obas
Beethova Obas (born 1964) is a Haitian musician.[1]
Background
Beethova's father, Charles Obas, was a painter. A music lover, he named Beethova after Beethoven. Beethova was only 4 years old when Charles Obas disappeared after participating in a protest against murders committed by François Duvalier's dictatorial regime. Charles Obas was never seen again,[1] leaving the family in financial trouble, while also having a social and emotional impact.[2]
Beethova became a self-taught musician, learning the guitar and accordion. His first musical release was a song composed with Manno Charlemagne, "Nwel Anme" (Bitter Christmas).[1] In 1988, he won a Découverte RFI award for the Best Young Singer, when Manu Dibango, President of the Jury noted his voice and talent.[1]
In 1991, Martiniquan pianist Paulo Rosine invited Obas to sing on Malavoi's album Matébis after discovering his voice during a tour of the band in Haiti. Beethova then toured the Caribbean and France, gaining wider exposure and recognition.[1]
Obas' favorite artists to work with have been Jocelyne Béroard, Ralph Thamar and Manno Charlemagne all of whom he credits for helping him develop his craft.[2]
Awards
Best Young Singer, Découverte Radio France Internationale contest, 1988[1]
Albums
- Le Chant de la Liberté, 1990[3]
- Si, 1994 via Déclic (ref. 840 373 2)[3]
- Pa Prese, 1996 (ref. 842 009 2)[3]
- Planet La, 1999[3]
- Ke'm Poze, 2003[3]