New York City’s Caribbean creative community gathered in Manhattan on Jan. 14 for a milestone moment as Haitian-American artist Mickael Marabou hosted a historic Audiomack Connect event, becoming the first Caribbean artist to lead a Connect experience on the platform.
According to Haitian-American entertainment publicist Marie Driven, managing director of the Brooklyn-based PlaybookMG, “the Afro Kreyol Queen transformed the Audiomack Connect space. It became a hub of culture, music, and meaningful exchange. The event drew industry professionals, media figures, creatives, and fans from across the Diaspora.”
“The evening reflected a growing movement of Caribbean artists carving out space in mainstream music and tech platforms while remaining rooted in community,” Driven told Caribbean Life on Tuesday, Jan. 27. “Known for being intentional with her public appearances, Mickael Marabou’s presence marked a notable shift.
“While she has remained active online, the event signaled a renewed focus on live engagement and in-person connection,” she added. “As 2026 unfolds, fans can expect a more visible chapter. This will include live performances and concerts.”
Driven said the gathering moved beyond traditional networking.
Driven said the gathering moved beyond traditional networking.
“Conversations flowed organically as artists and supporters connected face to face, exchanging ideas and strengthening relationships,” she said. “The atmosphere felt less like an industry mixer and more like a cultural convening, highlighting the power of Caribbean unity and collaboration in New York City.”
Driven said a defining moment of the night came when Marabou and Colmix Comic entered the space to their collaborative song Kenbèl La.
“The crowd responded instantly, singing along and filling the room with energy,” Driven said. “The reaction echoed the song’s growing traction online, where Kenbèl La continues to gain momentum and is quickly emerging as a contender for the summer’s breakout Caribbean hit.”
“The crowd responded instantly, singing along and filling the room with energy,” Driven said. “The reaction echoed the song’s growing traction online, where Kenbèl La continues to gain momentum and is quickly emerging as a contender for the summer’s breakout Caribbean hit.”
By opening its Manhattan Connect space to this landmark event, Driven said Audiomack “reaffirmed its commitment to elevating independent artists and global sounds.”
“The platform has increasingly become a space where Caribbean voices are not only streamed but also celebrated,” she said.
“For Mickael Marabou, the night represented more than a career milestone; it was a cultural statement – one that underscored the growing influence of Caribbean artists in shaping contemporary music spaces and the importance of creating opportunities rooted in authenticity and community,” Driven added.
