Calypso, The Voice of The Caribbean People

Can you hear a distant drum
Bouncing on the laughter of a melody ( yea, yea)
And does the rhythm tell you , come,come,come
Does your spirit do a dance to this symphony
Does it tell you that your heart is afire
Does it tell you that your pain is a liar
Does it wash away all your unlovely
And are you ready for a brand new discovery

The great Trinidadian Calypsonian David Rudder starts off his 1987 hit, Calypso Music, with those words. The song continues to describe the wonders of this beautiful genre that fuels the daily life of the simple Caribbean folk. As descendants of slaves and indentured workers, Caribbean people are continuously experiencing various types of struggles as the small nations in the archipelago fight to find their identity and sustain adequately as sustainable nations. 

Hardship, political problems, local drama, partying and having fun are the different topics that are portrayed in the thousands, even millions of songs that have been produced in this genre. Calypsonians take their time to add their powerful lyrics to a sweet melody that captures the attention of many. 

Calypso is so great and diverse that it produced an offspring genre just to focus on feting (partying). Soca (Soul of Calypso) has also captured the hearts of many across the world. Different artists, from various islands have different or similar sounds that would have you feeling energized or just cuddled up with your Love one. 


This Carnival season, in my opinion will be great. The various struggles and challenges which resulted in the aftermath of hurricanes Irma and Maria, constant political issues throughout the region, and the simple fact that we never know when number 45 will start war, there are many different points and topics to sing about. 


So if you are a more political analyst type of person and focus on the scandals like David Rudder sang in Panama (yes I love David Rudder) or you are all up for the jolification with songs like How Will Santa Get Here by King Obsitinate or my personal favourite Christmas Morning In Sint Maarten by Young Dow, I know the music from this prestigious region touches your soul,


If you are Sparrow, Arrow, Rudder, Obstinate or any other great calypsonian fan, please take time to share the greatness wherever you go. 


If you have no idea what I am talking about, it is time to do you your research and I would say start off with Congo Man by the Mighty Sparrow (also a big fav). 


Let us know who are your favourite calypso artist and favourite song in the comments below 

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