Reclaiming Haitian Heritage: Lalin St. Juste's Music Explores Different Experiences of Belonging

Art Heals All Wounds

Lalin St. Juste has been a staple in the Bay Area music scene for a decade with her genre-bending band The Seshen. In this episode, Lalin takes us on a transformative journey of healing and reclamation of her Haitian heritage through her solo music. As a Haitian American, Lalin has felt a deep connection to her roots, but also struggled with issues of identity and the negative stereotypes associated with Haiti. Through her music, she aims to unlearn these misconceptions and show the true richness and beauty of Haitian culture. Lalin's musical journey started as a means of expressing herself as a shy and quiet child. But it was her bond with her maternal grandmother that truly influenced her path. As Lalin coped with the loss of her grandmother, singing became a source of solace and healing. Her music celebrates and reclaims her matrilineal bloodline and Haitian heritage, in turn leading to a reaffirmation of her sense of belonging as a Haitian American
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Episode Highlights
[00:02:15] LA-raised musician connects with Haitian heritage.

[00:05:51] Shy child found solace in music. Strong bond with maternal grandmother. Sang to cope with mother's passing. Healing and self-expression through music.

[00:08:18] Influenced by Little Dragon, our Electronic session incorporates genre-bending sounds, dance production, and elements of traditional Haitian music. My solo work is constantly evolving with an ethereal, cosmic, and spiritual aesthetic.

[00:10:16] Daughter of Haitian immigrants embraces cultural heritage.

[00:14:59] Powerful connection to Haiti through song.

[00:20:13] Creating a unique home, exploring identity, inclusion.

[00:21:24] First song I wrote from EP after Jamaica trip, connecting with Jamaica in absence of Haiti. Fresh off Caribbean essence, thinking about family and their lives.

[00:27:59] "Art Heals All Wounds - Lalaine Saint Juste shares her story and upcoming performances in the Bay Area. Connect with her and listen to her work on Bandcamp. Leave a voicemail on arthealsallwoundspodcast.com to share your story of belonging."
Guest Info:

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• Bandcamp

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