Richard Morse
- Fierce, outspoken Haitian-American musician Richard Morse gives a voice to social and political injustice. When the catastrophic earthquake hit Haiti, it was Richard reporting from the ground, using Twitter, giving the world an up-to-the-minute story. Having survived at least 22 government changes while living in Haiti, he’s provided a “from the trenches” viewpoint of Haiti since the late 1990s.
- Creator, songwriter, and lead male vocalist of the politically-focused band, RAM, a racine band which combines elements of traditional Haitian vodou ceremonial and folkloric music with rock and roll. Alongside his wife, Lucine, Richard has made RAM one of the most important musical movements in Haiti, following the exile of Dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier. RAM continues to grow and continues to create political songs at a time when Haiti’s youth are increasingly listening to hip-hop, dance music and rap. RAM performs in Haiti and tours the UK, New York, Miami and many Caribbean countries.
- For almost 30 years, Morse has been involved in the vodou community, eventually becoming so involved in the music and religion that he was initiated as a houngan, or vodou priest, in 2002.
- Speaking topics include: Haiti, its politics, and the vodou culture and religion