Don Kerry Formeus was born on November 7, 1993, in Grande-Desdunes, in the Artibonite department. He is a singer-songwriter and rapper in the Haitian Baptist evangelical community of the United States. A versatile artist, he is also a drummer, model, painter, barber, and soccer player. Through music, he is carving out a path guided by passion, faith, and the wish for impact.

Arts, Cultures & Creativity: How did you start your musical journey? What was your first contact with music?
Don Kerry Formeus: My first contact with music dates back to my childhood. My father was a singer and, very often, he would carry me in his arms during his performances. It was at that moment that I began to develop a deep attachment to music.
I can’t say exactly at what age my musical journey began, but from childhood I was already composing. I even had my own notebook of compositions. On April 27, 2012, friends invited me to feature on a track, my very first one, titled “Nan Rap La.” This collaboration marked an important turning point in my career. It opened the door to other groups. I also had new musical experiences.

A. C&C: How would you describe your musical style to someone discovering you for the first time?
D. K. F.: I do not limit myself to a single musical identity. I simply let ideas come and express them as they are. It can be compas, rap, R&B, dancehall, reggae. I do not force anything.

A. C&C: What are your main musical influences?
D. K. F.: I am influenced by all musical genres. For me, every style has its beauty and its value.

A. C&C: What does music represent for you, beyond the stage and performance?
D. K. F.: Music is one of humanity’s greatest creations. It is a mental therapy. I can spend an entire day listening to music. Knowing how to produce it makes it even more enjoyable.

A. C&C: How are your songs born? Can you tell us about your creative process?
D. K. F.: Inspiration can come from anywhere. It arises from nature, solitude, moments shared with others, or listening to music. It can also come from working or from a real event, whether past, current, or even imaginary. In short, everything inspires me.

A. C&C: Do you write alone or collaborate with other artists?
D. K. F.: For now, I write my songs alone, but I do not rule out any collaboration in the future.

A. C&C: How do you choose the themes you discuss in your music?
D. K. F.: Themes often come naturally through inspiration. Sometimes, I also choose a specific theme and work on it in depth.

A. C&C: What has been your biggest challenge as an emerging artist?
D. K. F.: My biggest challenge is to produce quality music that is both audible and impactful. I aim to change an entire nation with my music. That is my ultimate goal.

A. C&C: Do you have a memorable experience on stage or in the studio?
D. K. F.: On stage, one moment particularly marked me. During a concert, I had prepared two songs. After the first one, the audience started singing another of my songs titled “Ti bb m nan.” I was deeply moved. So, I canceled the planned song to deliver the one the audience was asking for.
In the studio, every session is special. We have fun, we laugh, we dance, we share. It is always a beautiful experience.

A. C&C: How does the audience’s response influence your work, especially on YouTube?
D. K. F.: On YouTube, I am still just starting. For now, it is mainly family and friends who follow me, but the response is very encouraging. I continue to work relentlessly, convinced that the peak will come.
Elsewhere, the reception is incredible. At every performance or meeting, the feedback from the public motivates me to continue.

A. C&C: What role do you think music plays in the lives of young people today?
D. K. F.: Music is essential in daily life. Today, young people have more opportunities than earlier generations, especially thanks to social media and technology. The tools needed for musical creation are more accessible.

If you want to listen to Don Kerry sing, visit his YouTube channel. Click on this link: Don Kerry FORMEUS MAK7 – YouTube

A. C&C: How does your music fit into Haitian and Caribbean culture?
D. K. F.: I already have several projects ready. I also have other ideas to come. My goal is to highlight God’s world, His creations, my country, and Haitian women. The work is only beginning, and the public will discover many things throughout my journey.

A. C&C: What are your artistic goals for the coming years?
D. K. F.: I have big goals. An album is now in preparation, and if all goes well, it will be presented to the public this year.

A. C&C: What message do you want to convey to your fans through your music?
D. K. F.: A message of positivity, quite simply.

Thank you to Don Kerry Formeus for this inspiring exchange.