Originally from Martinique Jean-Philippe Marthèly was part of several groups. In 1981, he joined the Group Kassav’ and took part in the 3rd album by Kassav’ “kalkilé”. As lead singer he was in the first tour of the group in August 1982and has an energy and humour known to move the public and raise the mood. Marthèly invented a unique way of using his hands and expressions training thousands of fans to dance, sing and have fun together and copied by many other artists.

Jean-Philippe Marthèly has recorded with Kassav, two solo albums produced by Georges Debs: “Ti coq” in 1983 and “Bèl Kréati” in 1985, an album with Patrick Saint-Eloi “Business” in December 1985, another with Ronald Rubinel “Black Jack” in 1991 and finally “If sé taw” album in 1993, which he co-produced with Frédéric Caracas and who received the price SACEM Martinique for the best album of the year. Jean-Philippe Marthèly helped the produce many albums for many friends and for his little brother Thierry Marthèly who follows his footsteps

His unique compositions, rich melodies and arrangements for brass have an inimitable originality. His lyrics are drawn from the traditional Creole expressions or street venues. “Bel kréati”, “ZamZam”, “Zioum”, “souskaÿ” or “Sé dam’ bonjou ‘, “The Doulè Priyè” or “year ti zwel” all have a specific structure and solid musical foundation and Marthèly is known for being the King of live music.

Today, Jean Philippe Marthèly has two new groups: Loyon Indies with Ronald Tulle and David Chantalou and Band a Pipo, a live concert band of importance. On the last album by Kassav’, he continues his experience with the superb composition “Léwon”. The music of Kassav’ rooted in tradition will live on and Jean Philippe Marthèly, his home wall decorated with 30 trophies rewarded for artistic performance and compositions is testament to his solid contribution to the Zouk artform.