Haitian-Canadian artist Lou Phelps unveils rhythmic new album ‘Chèlbè’
Today, rising Haitian-Canadian artist and wordsmith Lou Phelps delivers his most ambitious project to date with the release of "Chèlbè”.
Following the momentum built by singles "I Dunno," "What Now," and the razor-sharp "IS MY MIC ON?”. This sophomore album firmly establishes Phelps in the international music scene, as he shows off his slick delivery on each high energy record. Chèlbè, an 11-track album executively produced by award-winning producer—and Lou’s brother—KAYTRANADA, delivers energetic tracks with Lou confidently flowing over smooth production throughout. Chelbe maintains a consistently uplifting and groovy vibe while blending classic rap with subtle R&B influences giving the listener a head-nodding experience from start to finish.
"I just wanted to create something that feels good, you know? Something you can vibe to that doesn't try too hard. I really wanted to lock in on the feels and tried to bring a new energy to the table."
- Lou Phelps
Chèlbè was created to introduce a sound that represents the true nature of Montreal in what Phelps likes to call “a melting pot of influence.” The album sets the tone for what’s to come with “PROLLY US” – A nostalgic fusion of funk, soul and a cultural sound formally known as “Kompa” – a Haitian dance music genre that emerged in the 1950s, combining African rhythms and European ballroom dance influences. You’ll find more of this cultural influence throughout the album with tracks like “After i” – a collaboration with GoldLink showcasing Phelp’s other talents weaving English, French, and Haitian Creole together to create a uniquely cosmopolitan sound.
Lou’s natural swagger is felt throughout this record, giving listeners a glimpse of what's to come on his upcoming tour, alongside KAYTRANADA.
Chèlbè is out now available on all streaming platforms
Experience the album on vinyl now live for pre-order here.
Chèlbè Tracklist:
PROLLY US
After i (feat. GoldLink)
4MYCHILDREN
I Dunno
WHAT NOW
Under My Skin
Jungle
IS MY MIC ON?
9. 2AM Interlude
10. AftaParty
11. PIMP Freestyle
12. BONUS TRACK: “GEMINI MOON” available only on vinyl
About Lou Phelps:
Montreal's Lou Phelps is a Haitian-Canadian rapper known for his effortless flow and genre-blending sound that seamlessly fuses hip-hop, house, and jazz-infused production. First emerging alongside his brother, Grammy-winning producer KAYTRANADA, in their duo The Celestics, Lou has since released explosive collaborations like “Call U Up” (5.7M+ streams) and accumulated over 120M+ catalog streams. Fresh off of support dates across North America, Lou Phelps is set to join KAYTRANADA's Timeless Tour this spring, performing at iconic venues including Co-op Live (UK), Accor Arena (Paris), and ING Arena (Brussels).
UPCOMING ‘TIMELESS’ TOUR DATES (SUPPORTING KAYTRANADA)
7 April, 2025 O2 Universum, Prague, Czechia
9 April, 2025 AFAS Live, Amsterdam, Netherlands
10 April, 2025 AFAS Live, Amsterdam, Netherlands
11 April, 2025 Palladium, Cologne, Germany
12 April, 2025 UFO im Velodrom, Berlin, Germany
15 April, 2025 Arena COS Torwar, Warsaw, Poland
17 April, 2025 ING Arena, Brussels, Belgium
18 April, 2025 Accor Arena, Paris, France
19 April, 2025 Accor Arena, Paris, France
23 April, 2025 Co-op Live, Manchester, UK
25 April, 2025 Alexandra Palace, London, UK
26 April, 2025 Alexandra Palace, London, UK
27 April, 2025 Alexandra Palace, London, UK
29 April, 2025 Inselparkhalle, Hamburg, Germany
30 April, 2025 K.B. Hallen, Copenhagen, Denmark