Fred Deshayes is a renowned Guadeloupean musician celebrated for his impactful blend of zouk, jazz, and Caribbean folk music. As a founding member of the group Soft, Deshayes has significantly shaped the modern music scene in the French Caribbean with his thoughtful lyrics and rich melodies. His solo work often addresses social and environmental issues, giving a voice to the struggles and aspirations of his community. With a career spanning several decades, Fred Deshayes continues to inspire and resonate with audiences through his innovative compositions and passionate performances.
Featured Song:
“Ewa” addresses the water issues faced by the inhabitants of Guadeloupe. The island was called Karukéra (island of beautiful waters) by the Kalinagos in reference to its abundant rivers, yet the inhabitants suffer from water scarcity because of political mismanagement. Joined by popular singer Méthi’s, Deshayes sings “The spirit floated above the waters like they float above the laws / It cannot stay this way / Guadeloupe, the island of beautiful waters / Open the faucet / No water is flowing / Gentlemen, what is happening? / Everyone is annoyed / Give us our flowing water.”
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