Raoul Guillaume was a pioneering Haitian musician, composer, and bandleader whose work helped shape the sound of Haitian music in the mid-20th century. Born in Port-au-Prince in 1926, Guillaume was known for his rich compositions that drew from Haiti’s diverse musical heritage, blending elements of compas, méringue, and folk rhythms. He led his own ensemble, Raoul Guillaume et Son Groupe, and was celebrated for his ability to capture the soul of Haitian culture in his music, appealing to audiences both within Haiti and internationally. Guillaume’s career was marked by his passion for Haitian rhythms and melodies, and he remains a significant figure in Haitian music history, remembered for his contributions to the development and global recognition of Haiti’s rich musical traditions.