Olivier Martelly – Artist & Music Producer

Michel-Olivier Martelly better known as “BigO” is a Haitian artist and music producer. Son of a well-known musician, Sweet Micky, he began his music career at a very young age. His music is a unique Caribbean “Pop” mixed with Haitian Kompa beats.

Olivier is a devoted father and husband who cherishes spending time with his family. He’s an active philanthropist, inspired by his parents who’s “Fondation Rose et Blanc” is dedicated to helping the less fortunate. In his free time he also enjoys going to the gym.

What do you do in your spare time?

Sports, karate in particular. I started Karate when I was 4 years old. I also played soccer. I became a black belt at the age of 13. As an adult, I learned to appreciate that my parents always encouraged me to play sports. Karate taught me to set goals and focus on reaching them. That’s where I learned self control and tolerance. The discipline that I learned from martial arts helps me everyday to reach goals that I set in my personal and professional life. Through soccer, I learned to be a team player and to work with people from all walks of life. I no longer do karate or play soccer, but I stay physically fit by going to the gym regularly.

What’s your favorite type of food?

I love Asian food but of course, I love Haitian food, especially so home cooked rice with lalo (Spinach like vegetable).

What’s the best advice you ever received?

Self-trust is the first secret of success!

What’s your favorite thing about working in your industry?

The music industry in Haiti is still very unstructured despite the massive talents of our musicians. I’ve set personal challenges to structure it in different ways, from legal to management, to infrastructure etc. I want to play a leading role in defining where the Haitian music industry will be in the next few years.