Rebel Layonn

Rebel Layonn  (James Vergneau), born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on August 15th, 1978—is considered one of the rare conscious voices of the movement in the Haitian reggae world. Following his migration to New York, his exposure to hip-hop and ragamuffin contributed to the development of a distinctive style. Not one to rely solely on his voice, he picked up the guitar to sharpen his skills as a composer. In 1998, he returned to Haiti.

2003 was a turning point for Rebel Layonn — he founded and became the lead singer of what is now Yizra'el Band. His reggae rhythms are intended to spread a message of conscious elevation as he performs in English and Creole. Over the last seven years, Rebel Layonn and Yizra’el have shared the stage with top artists such as Elephant Man, Red Rat, Sael, JAHFE ; and has delighted audiences in Haiti and the Dominican Republic.  Rebel Layonn is now launching a promising solo career in order to explore the rhythms and genres that have inspired him for so long. He played a major role in a “non-profit youth empowerment” album, Mizik Pou Ayiti; produced by none other than Will Wells (Berkeley University). This project allowed  Rebel Layonn to show off his talent in making music outside of the reggae genre, and future projects include a new album.  Mr. Layonn’s collaboration with select artists is proof of the genius he brings to today’s music. For him, music is a mission—He is an instrument revolting from oppression; all forms of pollution—as we search for the deepest aspects of love, supreme peace, and collective unity.