Adras Jean-Baptiste: A Voice for Haiti’s Social Challenges

Introduction to Adras Jean-Baptiste

Adras Jean-Baptiste, the Haitian reggae artist known as GBX, died April 15 at his home in Anse-à-Foleur after battling an illness for nearly six months, his family confirmed. He was 39, according to The Haitian Times.

Jean-Baptiste, a native of Anse-à-Foleur, about 17 miles east of Port-de-Paix, spent nearly two decades using his music to confront Haiti’s social challenges. His lyrics tackled insecurity, poverty, and prejudice—earning him a respected place in Haiti’s small but powerful reggae scene.

Starting out in Creole rap at 19, Jean-Baptiste eventually found his voice in reggae, a genre he felt allowed more freedom to speak truthfully about the country’s struggles. In 2005, he moved to Port-au-Prince to chase his music dreams, fully transitioning to reggae by 2015. He returned to his hometown several months before his passing, after years of quietly battling an undisclosed illness.

Music Career and Legacy

Jean-Baptiste founded the group Sektè Rasta (Rasta Sector) in Anse-à-Foleur two decades ago, performing alongside his younger brother, Yslet. Over his career, he released two albums featuring 17 songs. Tracks like “Nèg yo pa vle wèm” (The guys don’t like me), “Mal paka fini” (Evil can’t end), and “Renmen lajan amò” (Love money to death) earned him a loyal fan base for their raw storytelling and social commentary.

One of his standout songs, “Di mwen” (Tell me), called out Haiti’s worsening insecurity and urged gang leaders to put down their weapons and work toward peace—a message that resonated deeply during increasingly turbulent times.

Life Outside of Music

Outside of music, Adras Jean-Baptiste was a skilled tradesman, working as a plumber, mason, welder, and ironworker. He began his education at Baptiste Béthanie Evangelical School and later earned a rhetoric degree from Blaise Pascal College in Port-au-Prince.

Funeral and Legacy

Jean-Baptiste’s funeral service was held Saturday, April 26, in his hometown of Anse-à-Foleur, where family, friends, and fans gathered to honor a voice that, though silenced, leaves behind a powerful legacy.

Conclusion

Adras Jean-Baptiste’s legacy will live on through his music, which continues to inspire and uplift the people of Haiti. His commitment to using his platform to address social issues and promote positive change will not be forgotten. As his fans and fellow artists continue to celebrate his life and work, his memory will serve as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and drive social change.