Mizik Maladi: Disques Debs International Vol. 3

Strut introduces the highly anticipated third volume in the Disques Debs International series, diving deeper into the archives of one of the greatest French Caribbean labels, Disques Debs, based in Guadeloupe. Founded by the visionary Henri Debs in the late ‘50s, the label and studio operated for over 50 years, releasing more than 300 7” singles and 200 LPs, making it a cornerstone of Caribbean music history. 

By the dawn of the 1980s, Henri Debs had already established himself as a prolific producer, with a record of releases unmatched in Guadeloupe and Martinique. From its humble beginnings with a 2-track tape machine in the back of a clothes shop, Disques Debs evolved into a powerhouse, boasting a state- of-the-art studio in downtown Pointe-à-Pitre, retail shops for records and musical instruments in Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Paris, a nightclub in Gosier, and international distribution deals reaching Europe, the U.S., and South America.

Disques Debs played a pivotal role in shaping modern Caribbean music. The label bridged traditional genres like biguine and gwoka with contemporary styles like cadence, compas, and zouk, the latter becoming a global phenomenon in the 1980s with contributions from iconic acts like Kassav’ and Zouk Machine. The period also saw Disques Debs champion a new generation of artists while maintaining ties with legendary figures from earlier decades. 

Volume 3 in this series spotlights one of the label’s most dynamic and influential periods as it expanded its global reach during the 1980s. Across 2 LPs, the release features a curated selection of tracks from the Disques Debs circle, highlighting both emerging talents and established artists who defined the era. 

This collection not only celebrates Henri Debs’ unmatched legacy but also offers a snapshot of Caribbean music’s golden age, cementing Disques Debs as a cultural institution.

1. Sadi Lancreot – Dou Se Vou Ki Siwo
2. Max Et Henri – Sé Pou Demen
3. Dominique Panol – Come On Baby
4. Mariz – Si On Jou 
5. Jocelyn Mocka Et Kassav – Mizik Maladi
6. Christian Yéyé – Misyé Zanndo
7. Ramon Pyrmée – An Mwe
8. Expérience 7 – Bel Toubonman
9. Ka Lévé – Apre Nou Byen Cheche
10. Horizon - Neg Mawon
11. Ti Celeste – Testaman
12. Yo – Fo’w Maye
13. Alex Rosa – L’appel Des Champions 
14. Gwo Siwo – Bèlè