Haitian artists to commemorate life of singer Mikaben in Miami’s Little Haiti

As the unexpected death of Haitian recording artist Michael “Mikaben’ Benjamin left fans around the world in shock, in Miami artists are planning to honor his memory and contributions with a special Friday night musical tribute at the Little Haiti Cultural Center.

“Guests will have an opportunity to lay roses at the Little Haiti Memorial Living Wall,” promoter Terry Louis said. “Mikaben’s death has shocked the community and world. During this time, the Haitian community must come together in support of his family and legacy.”

Mikaben was performing with the konpa band CaRiMi in Paris, France, over the weekend when he died unexpectedly after collapsing on stage at the end of a performance. He was 41.

Louis is asking fans to wear white and says the memorial commemoration will be headlined by the group Harmonik. Other performers will include Haitian jazz artist Mushy Widmaier, spoken word artist Mecca “Grimo” Marcelin and NSL Dance Ensemble. All will be gathering under the banner of Sounds of Little Haiti, the concert series that takes place every third Friday of the month at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex.

A multi-talented artist who sang in English, Creole, French and sometimes Spanish, Mikaben was considered not only one of his generation’s most talented musicians but one of the industry’s most approachable as he interacted with fans as if they were old friends. In his spare time, he devoted himself to service, teaming up with charities like Fleur De Vie to accompany children in Back to School events.

The son of celebrated Haitian singer Lionel Benjamin and his wife, Roseline Dupoux Benjamin, Mikaben developed a reputation as not just a singer, but a songwriter and producer in the Haitian music industry.

“Mikaben’s strong personality and charisma were undeniable,” his publicist PlaybookMG, said in a statement. “For more than two decades, he dedicated himself to harnessing positivity through platforms that connect him with people around the globe.”

His major hits include the songs “Ayiti Se,” “Ou Pati,” and “Baby I Missed You,” which was a collaboration with CaRiMi. “He wooed audiences by singing and playing guitar, leaving a lasting impression in the hearts and minds of his friends, family, and devoted fan base,” the label Kon’beat Records said.

In a statement, the family thanked fans for their outpouring of love and asked for patience. They are “still processing current events,” they said.

“We appreciate your understanding in allowing the family to grieve privately,” the family said.

The family also warned fans to be aware of fraudulent GoFundMe accounts set up on Mikaben’s behalf. “These were not set up or authorized by the family.”

All communications regarding announcements, funeral arrangements and family support will be provided via Mikaben’s personal media platform and that of his wife, Vanessa, who is expecting the couple’s second child.

Sounds of Little Haiti Tribute to Mikaben

When: 6 p.m. Friday

Where: Little Haiti Cultural Center, 212 NE 59th Terrace, Miami

Cost: Free, but RSVP is encouraged at eventbrite