Haitian musicians need to help Touche Douce pirate radio station, says Compas Fest founder

Founder of the biggest Haitian music festival outside of Haiti, Rodney Noel is calling on the Haitian Music Industry (HMI) to come to the rescue of one of its own.

Noel is issuing the plea on behalf of Fabrice Polynice, aka DJ Paz, who is under fire with the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC is accusing Polynice of operating an illegal radio station, Touche Douce in Miami and wants to hit him with a $144,344 fine.

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The fine is the largest amount allowed under FCC regulations, and comes after what the commission describes as “egregious, intentional and repeated violations,” by the popular DJ and music promoter. Two commission officials told the Miami Herald they can’t recall the last time a station was hit so hard.

“The HMI should support Paz because he has been doing a great job in the industry,” said Noel, the founder of Miami Compas Festival and manager of the band, Harmonik. “Touche Douce has contributed to the movement that placed Miami as the capital of konpa.”

Polynice has owned the Touche Douce station and brand for 24 years, and was in the midst of looking for a location to celebrate it’s anniversary this month when the FCC announced the fine. The station, which organizes some of the most popular big-ticket parties while promoting bands and guiding konpa music fans to the next hit, was on the air as late as Wednesday.

“Paz, you’re a hero,” Noel said in a statement speaking directly to the DJ. “I know the station was illegal but the community has gained a lot from your work bro. I’m here for you my brother and I am calling everyone to join me to help Paz with his legal fees…T-Vice, NuLook, Djakout, Klass, Harmonik, dISIP, Gabel, Sweet Micky, etc.”

No word yet on if any of the artists have responded to Noel’s call.

This story was originally published October 4, 2017 at 10:10 PM with the headline "Haitian musicians need to help Touche Douce pirate radio station, says Compas Fest founder."