“Merci Nemours”: Lionel Benjamin Honors 70 Years of Compas

He calls himself an icon of Haitian music, a legend, Haiti’s Santa Claus. Singer-songwriter Lionel Benjamin appeared on the morning show “Panel Magik,” which has been running a series of broadcasts to mark 70 years of compas. In a conversation filled with anecdotes, laughter, and advice for younger artists, the singer reflected on his 55-year career. He has witnessed many turning points in the evolution of compas, created by Nemours Jean-Baptiste, yet he remains convinced that “compas belongs to us.” To further