Meet Ms Mavy – founder of Afroplug, Splice’s newest label focusing on sounds from the African diaspora. In this conversation she expands on the label’s newest pack The Caribbean Flavor, her creative process, and the unique sounds of Zouk and Kompa.
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Tell us about yourself – What led you to production and creating samples?
My journey into music production began with my roots in Guadeloupe and Cameroun, where the pulse of the land and the culture were woven into the fabric of who I am. From a young age, music was a natural expression of my world, and over time, it evolved into a creative force that led me to found Afroplug. It’s a space where music flows freely, connecting with others who share the same drive to create something meaningful.
Tell us about The Caribbean Flavour – how would you describe the sound of this pack?
The Caribbean Flavour Pack blends Zouk and Kompa, two iconic genres deeply rooted in my heritage from Guadeloupe and the wider Caribbean. These sounds aren’t simply a fusion of rhythms—they are a reflection of my journey as an artist, shaped by the culture that surrounded me while growing up in Guadeloupe. This pack is an extension of that story, carrying with it the energy and spirit of my roots.
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What led you to creating such a unique pack?
The Caribbean Flavour Pack was born from a desire to share the vibrant energy of Zouk and Kompa with the world—genres that are not just sounds, but reflections of my identity and heritage. Zouk from Guadeloupe and Kompa from Haiti carry rich histories that have influenced music globally, and this pack encapsulates that legacy, blending them into something modern and fresh.
Building this pack wasn’t a solo effort. It’s the result of collaboration with an amazing team of producers from the Afro diaspora, including the talented Emerald P. Together, we worked to merge these traditional sounds with modern influences, creating a sample pack that embodies the heart of the Caribbean while offering something new for creators worldwide.
We’d love to more deeply understand how Zouk and Kompa emerged and continue to evolve. Who are the key innovators of this style of music? What noteworthy artists are shaping these genres today?
The key innovators of Zouk and Kompa have played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and culture we recognize today. For Zouk, one of the most significant pioneers is Kassav’, a group that revolutionized Caribbean music in the late 1970s by modernizing traditional rhythms and introducing global influences like funk, soul, and jazz. Their groundbreaking work helped Zouk spread beyond the French Caribbean, impacting not only Africa but also the broader global stage.
For Kompa, Nemours Jean-Baptiste is considered the father of the genre. He blended traditional Haitian rhythms with jazz, big band, and Latin influences, creating the smooth, emotional style that is still at the heart of Kompa music today.
As for contemporary artists incorporating these influences, we see a mix of traditional and modern sounds that keep evolving. Artists like Aya Nakamura and Joe Dwet Filé bring Zouk to the forefront, combining it with more modern styles like Afrobeat and R&B. In the Kompa space, you can find artists such as Carimi and T-Vice pushing the boundaries, mixing classic Kompa with contemporary elements like reggae and hip-hop.
Today, many artists from the Caribbean and the African diaspora incorporate Zouk and Kompa into their music, blending these sounds with pop, hip-hop, and electronic influences. The genre has evolved significantly, with artists like Damso, Fanny J, and Joé Dwet Filé experimenting with new combinations, while staying connected to the roots of Caribbean music. These artists help bring the timeless spirit of Zouk and Kompa to new generations, ensuring that the influence of these iconic genres continues to grow and thrive globally. Zouk emerged from the French Caribbean in the late 1970s, evolving into a movement that modernized traditional rhythms and embraced global influences such as funk, soul, and jazz. It’s not just music—it’s an experience, a celebration of life, deeply connected to the rhythms of bèlè and Gwo Ka. Zouk, for me, is a feeling—a direct connection to home, to the land, and to the people. On the other hand, Kompa, originating in Haiti, carries a similar spirit. It combines Haitian rhythms with jazz, big band, and Latin influences, producing smooth yet powerful grooves. It’s about resilience, emotion, and expressing identity.
Zouk and Kompa are more than just genres to me; they represent a deeply personal part of my heritage. Through this pack, I hope to share that essence, not just as a sound, but as a story.
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Are there any tips, best practices, philosophies, etc. around recording that you'd like to share?
When it comes to recording, the key is to always aim for authenticity and a deep connection to the culture you're representing. For me, the goal is to ensure that every sound, every rhythm, every melody in the recording process serves the purpose of creating a Caribbean hit—one that is not only sonically captivating but also grounded in the authentic vibes of the Caribbean.
Focus on capturing the true essence of the genre, whether it’s the smoothness of Kompa or the energy of Zouk. Use real instruments, organic textures, and rhythms that resonate with the heart and soul of the Caribbean. Don't rush the process—let the music breathe, and don't be afraid to experiment while staying true to the roots.
The key philosophy is to merge tradition with innovation. Always respect the past but allow space for fresh, modern elements to emerge. And remember, creating something powerful requires patience, dedication, and an open mind to the sounds around you. With the right balance, you can craft a track that feels timeless while sounding contemporary and exciting.
Do you have any advice for other musicians who are striving to move into the world of sample creation?
For musicians looking to move into the world of sample creation, my advice would be to first understand that it's about capturing the essence of sound and the emotion behind it. Sample creation isn't just about making sounds, it's about telling a story through those sounds.
Start with authenticity: Your samples should reflect who you are as an artist. Whether you're drawing from your roots or experimenting with new genres, make sure that what you create feels personal. This authenticity will resonate with others and elevate your work.
Explore diverse influences: The beauty of sample creation is that you can combine different genres and cultures. Don’t be afraid to mix sounds that are outside your usual comfort zone. For example, fusing traditional Zouk and Kompa with modern influences like Afrobeat or electronic can bring fresh energy to your creations.
Embrace technology, but respect the craft: There are a lot of amazing digital tools for creating and manipulating sounds. But remember, technology is just a tool—it's your creativity and ear for detail that will set you apart. Experiment, refine your process, and find creative ways to make every sample sound special.
Learn the art of layering: Good samples often come from layering different sounds and textures. Whether it’s the rhythm of a drum, the warmth of a synth, or the vocal energy of a melody, the magic often lies in how well you layer different elements together. Think about the atmosphere you want to create and use layers to bring that vision to life.
Stay true to your vision, but be open to feedback: Creating samples is a deeply personal process, but it's also about engaging with a community of artists and producers. Don’t be afraid to get feedback and make adjustments. Constructive criticism will help you grow, but always stay true to the sound and message you want to share.
Keep experimenting: The beauty of music production is that there are no rules—only guidelines. Keep pushing boundaries, whether you’re working with different genres, instruments, or digital tools. The more you experiment, the more you’ll find your own unique voice in the world of sample creation.
Sample creation is all about exploration and creativity: The more you create, the better you'll get. Keep experimenting, and don't be afraid to fail—it’s all part of the journey toward finding something truly unique.
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What do you hope producers in your audience will take away from this incredible pack??
When you use the Caribbean Flavour Pack in your own production, I hope it not only sparks your creativity but also helps you connect to the history and culture that shaped the music we celebrate today. Let these rhythms move you. Whether you’re crafting a track from scratch or layering in some Caribbean energy, know that music transcends borders—and just as these genres have evolved, so too can your own creativity.
I hope that this pack inspires you to create with intention, to tap into the stories and emotions behind the sounds, and to push your own boundaries in music production. Let it remind you of the power music has to transcend culture and bring people together.
Click the button below and check out the The Caribbean Flavour sample pack today!