Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Bel and Quinn, the Haitian Canadian sister duo, Bélinda and Christina Bélice, are making a
powerful impact on Quebec’s music scene with their vibrant fusion of jazz, soul, and Haitian
rhythms. Their upcoming show, Dompter les cendres , on April 10, at the Centre culturel du
Vieux-Aylmer, Cabaret La Basoche, 120 Rue Principale in Aylmer, promises an intimate and
electrifying performance that highlights their unique sound and artistry.

With Quinn’s signature electric guitar and the duo’s seamless vocal harmonies, their music is
both deeply personal and universally resonant. Singing in French, Creole, and English, Bel and
Quinn explore themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and healing, reflecting their own lived
experiences. Their 2023 debut album, Donte sann yo, earned a nomination for Global Music
Album of the Year at the 2024 Juno Awards, solidifying their place in Canada’s musical
landscape.

Rooted in the rich musical traditions of Haiti, Bel and Quinn draw inspiration from legendary
orchestras like Septentrional and Ibo Combo while blending the jazz and soul influences of Nina
Simone and Sade. They define their sound as “jazz konpa,” a fusion that is both rhythmically
compelling and emotionally evocative.

Mental health awareness is at the core of their music. “It is important for us to talk about mental
health. We have had our battles with depression and anxiety disorders. Music has been a
wonderful vehicle to embark on a path to healing,” they shared. This commitment to emotional
well-being is not just reflected in their lyrics but also in the atmosphere they create during their
performances, offering their audiences both comfort and empowerment.

Bel and Quinn are also dedicated to uplifting female musicians. “We are committed to promoting
the talent of female artists, which is why we will be joined on stage by our bassist, Stéphanie
Jobin,” they said. This dedication to representation is an integral part of their identity as artists
and advocates.

Their growing recognition has led to performances at major festivals, including Montreal’s
Festival International Nuits d’Afrique, Québec Jazz en Juin, and Haïti en Folie. They have
played at notable venues such as Club Balattou and Salle Pauline-Julien. In 2021, they were
featured on Radio-Canada’s Plus on est de fous, plus on lit and later performed on the Télé-
Québec program Belle et Bum.

Despite their success, their journey has not been without obstacles. Quinn, who studied jazz
guitar in Montreal, faced challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field. “Quinn overcame
moments of humiliation and sexism that deeply affected her during her jazz guitar studies. This
field is still largely male-dominated, but we believe in the importance of highlighting women’s
talent,” they emphasized. Their experiences have strengthened their advocacy for women in
music, and they exclusively feature female musicians in their performances. Their dedication ​
has earned them grants from the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec (CALQ) and the
Canada Council for the Arts.

With a steadily growing fan base and widespread critical acclaim, Bel and Quinn continue to
create music that uplifts and inspires. Their upcoming performance in Aylmer is set to be a
powerful celebration of their artistry, cultural heritage, and commitment to making music that
resonates with the heart and soul.

Photo: Bel and Quinn, a Haitian Canadian sister duo, blend jazz, soul, and Haitian rhythms in a
powerful, emotionally resonant performance, with their upcoming show in Aylmer promising an
intimate and electrifying musical experience. (TF) Photo: Camille Tellier