This is news that will come as a relief to some (ahem, Sean Penn): Former Fugee and wannabe Haitian president Wyclef Jean has conceded that he’s not in the running to become his homeland’s next leader and has officially withdrawn from the race. Now, he’s going back to his music, and apparently this brush with politics will provide the fodder for his next artistic endeavor. –KA

Reuters:

After weeks of quiet but painstaking reflection with my wife and daughter, I have chosen to end my bid for the presidency of Haiti,” the singer-songwriter said in a statement.

“This was not an easy conclusion to reach; but it is one that was thoughtfully made,” Jean added.

The Haitian-born Jean, who has lived most of his life in the United States, said he would now focus on his music. He said he planned to release a new album next year titled “If I were President, the Haitian Experience.”

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