Haiti’s music community is in mourning.
André “Dadou” Pasquet, one of the country’s most iconic guitarists and co-founder of the legendary Magnum Band, passed away peacefully on the evening of Saturday, November 22, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
The announcement was shared by his relatives in a detailed statement, followed early Sunday morning by an official message from the Haitian government — a reflection of the profound loss felt across the nation.
An Icon Whose Influence Transcended Music
In an emotional family tribute, the Pasquet family described Dadou not only as a “musical icon for the entire world” and a “legendary guitarist,” but also as a deeply humble and beloved figure. “Husband, father, friend, and a pillar of Haitian culture — his art touched countless lives,” the statement reads.
The family also highlighted the essence of Dadou’s philosophy and legacy: “Jwe mizik lan” — Play the music.
“Let us keep his legacy alive. Play his music, share his melodies, dance, and let his rhythms continue to resonate in our lives,” the family urged.
A Tribute From the Nation
The Haitian government paid formal homage to Pasquet, calling him an “undeniable pillar of Haiti’s musical heritage.” A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office honored him as an “extraordinary guitarist, inspired composer,” and a “legendary figure of konpa,” whose humility matched his virtuosity.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé offered condolences to the artist’s family and to Haiti’s music community, saying the country had lost a “giant.” The statement emphasized Pasquet’s role as a builder of modern Haitian music:
“A founding member of mythical groups that shaped and transformed the history of konpa, Dadou Pasquet will remain in our collective memory as a visionary creator.”
By early Sunday morning, the news had stunned the capital. Front pages, radio stations and social media feeds were dominated by the same message: the maestro André “Dadou” Pasquet was gone.
Magnum Band’s Enduring Musical Legacy
Founded in 1976, Dadou Pasquet’s Magnum Band left an indelible mark on Haiti’s musical landscape. Pasquet’s unmistakable guitar work — both melodic and rhythmic — formed the backbone of the group’s distinctive sound.
Songs such as “Oupila,” “Lè yon gason renmen yon fi,” “Lespwa Nan Kè’m,” “Experience,” and “M’pap Janm Bliye’w” are more than hits; they are the soundtrack of generations of Haitians, accompanying moments of joy, sorrow and celebration. These timeless melodies continue to vibrate in hearts and dance halls from Port-au-Prince to the diaspora.
Dadou Pasquet’s passing leaves a vast void in the hearts of his people and in the wider musical world. Yet, as both his family and the government remind us, his spirit lives on in every note, chord and refrain that continues to rise.
The message is simple, echoing the maestro’s own words:
Jwe mizik lan — Play the music.
