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David Rudder: Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images David Michael Rudder was born on May 6th, 1953, and grew up in Belmont, Trinidad, in an area known as Freetown. In many ways, Belmont became the first instrument in his life, full of rhythm, argument, faith, street theatre, Carnival energy, and the everyday music of Caribbean people finding their voice. By age eleven, Rudder was already singing with a group called The Solutions. Long before he became one of the most important v

Chuck Gordon as Mighty Sparrow The story of the Mighty Sparrow continues to soar across the Caribbean, this time through the powerful stage production Ten To One: The Mighty Sparrow Musical, which recently received a warm and appreciative reception in St. Lucia. The musical celebrates the life, music, wit, brilliance, and cultural impact of Slinger Francisco, the Calypso King of the World, tracing the early years of his rise and the powerful songs that helped shape the modern

Point Fortin has produced a lineage of calypsonians whose work reflects the full range and function of the art form itself. From social commentary to high-energy performance to cultural continuity, the borough’s contribution is defined not just by numbers, but by lasting influence. Calypsonians and soca artistes connected to Point Fortin include The Mighty Duke, Super Blue, Fay-Ann Lyons, and Iwer George, among others, each representing a different evolution of calypso and so

Photo by Mark Lyndersay Carl “Beaver” Henderson stands as one of the unsung heroes in the world of calypso music. Known for his exceptional skills as a producer and sound engineer, Henderson has been instrumental in shaping the sonic identity of modern calypso. His work bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, ensuring that the genre remains both authentic and relevant. Over the years, Beaver has collaborated with numerous calypso artistes including Lord Kitchener, S

“Merchant: The Hidden Gems of Dennis Williams Franklyn” prepares to deliver a powerful tribute at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) on Saturday 9th May 2026. This feature concert shines a spotlight on the work of Dennis “Merchant” Franklyn, a respected contributor to the development of calypso music in Trinidad and Tobago. Known for his musical depth and composition, Merchant’s work has quietly influenced generations of performers and the sound of the artfor

The Borough of Point Fortin has officially honored one of its most celebrated sons, The Mighty Duke, by naming a street after the legendary Calypsonian. Born Kelvin Pope in Point Fortin, Duke went on to become one of the most influential figures in Trinidad and Tobago’s musical history. His impact on Calypso is unmatched, including a historic run of four consecutive Calypso Monarch titles between 1968 and 1971, a record that still stands today. Known for his commanding presen

IShowSpeed’s stop in Trinidad has quickly become one of the most talked-about moments of his Caribbean tour, not just for the energy, but for the culture. Streaming live to millions, the global internet personality moved through the streets of Port of Spain, drawing massive crowds at every stop. From St James to the city centre, thousands of fans showed up, turning each location into a full street takeover. But beyond the chaos and excitement, Speed’s visit turned into a full

The West Indian cultural community is mourning the passing of Derek Parsons, a Trini-Brooklyn-based broadcaster, promoter, DJ and avid supporter of Caribbean culture. Derek founded and operated Caribbean Radio Stations (CRS), an online Caribbean radio platform known for sharing and promoting Caribbean music, interviews, news, commentary, and culture with listeners across the world. Derek’s contribution went beyond radio. He was an avid supporter of steelpan, calypso, comedy,

Calypso legend “Contender” is set to mark an incredible milestone, 60 years in the business and his 75th birthday with a grand live concert at the City Hall Auditorium in Port of Spain on Friday 24th April 2026. Known for his powerful storytelling, social commentary, and commanding stage presence, Contender has long been a respected voice in the calypso arena. This concert is a tribute to a lifetime of contribution to Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity. The cast reflects

The Kultural Stew Roadshow is shaping up to be a vibrant platform for live entertainment, bringing together a diverse group of artistes under one banner. Built around the idea of “All Genres, Live, All Year,” the initiative focuses on keeping local music active beyond the traditional season. With performers like Neruki The Messenger, Trini Saw, Kevin Navarro, Hamidullah, Devica, Travys ArtySt, Kinte, Lady Lystra, Greg, St. Nick, and De Guru, the roadshow blends different styl

For years, The Trinbago Unified Calypsonian's Organization's digital platforms have focused on competition updates, results, and official notices only. Today, this is no longer enough as times have changed and our audience has evolved. With this in mind we are now transitioning our digital platforms from an information channel into a living, breathing media platform for our calypso culture and member activity. A New Kind of Presence Moving forward, TUCO’s official platforms w

Some events are built around entertainment. Others are built around a feeling. That is what stands out about Girls Just Wanna Have Fun , the women’s event hosted by Maria Bhola , now heading into its 8th edition on May 2, 2026 . On the surface, it is a ladies’ event. But the language around it, and the way women have responded to it publicly, suggests something more personal is happening here. Bhola herself has described it as “an intentionally curated evening for women to c

The Hendricksons Calypso has always been shaped by individuals, but across generations, it has also been carried by families. Within the calypso fraternity, these legacies quietly sustain the artform through everyday exposure, shared experience, and continuity over time. Long before the stage, the tent, or competition, calypso is often introduced at home through observation, participation, and constant presence. In families like the Hendricksons, that process is easy to trace

Families in South Trinidad can look forward to an afternoon of talent, creativity, and youth expression as Demi Melville Entertainment prepares to host its Annual Children’s Concert on April 19th, 2026. Led by Damion Melville, the event continues to build a space where young performers can step onto the stage and showcase their abilities in music, performance, and entertainment. Set to take place at the Mon Repos Regional Complex from 2PM, the concert is designed as a family-

Lord Kitchener's contribution goes beyond songs and into the structure of the artform itself. Born Aldwyn Roberts in Arima in 1922, Kitchener developed calypso as both a musical and performance discipline. While many were known for lyrics, he set a higher standard by focusing on melody and composition. Songs like “London Is the Place for Me,” “Margie,” and “Pan in A Minor” showed that calypso could be musically rich, not just lyrically sharp, giving steelbands and arrangers m

There are many individuals who have dedicated their lives to documenting calypso culture over the years, and their work plays a critical role in preserving the artform beyond the stage. Today, we highlight a few of those individuals and the work they have contributed. Dr Rudolph Ottley Dr. Rudolph Ottley has built an extensive body of written work that captures the structure and history of calypso. Through publications such as One Hundred Years of Vocal Calypso Recordings an

Photo By: Carver Thompson Darwren Pharaoh Greenidge, known in calypso circles as “Pharaoh,” has passed, leaving behind a life of contribution to both calypso and the steelpan movement in Trinidad and Tobago. Greenidge was not only a calypsonian but also played an active role within Pan Trinbago, where he contributed to the development and support of the national instrument and its community. His involvement placed him at the intersection of two of the country’s most important

Ninja is marking his birthday this year with a bus ride event to Toco, bringing together music, food, and a full day experience outside of the usual party setting. The event takes place on Sunday 21st June , with the bus scheduled to leave Carib Brewery at 9:00 AM sharp . From there, patrons will head to Toco, with music and entertainment continuing throughout the trip. The concept is simple, people on the move, good music playing, and a relaxed environment for socialising. T

Black Prince, born Kenroy Smith, was one of those calypsonians whose career was built not on momentary spotlight, but on endurance, craft, and connection to the people. With a journey spanning decades, beginning as a young boy in John John and growing into a respected voice in the calypso tents, he represented a generation that carried the artform year after year. His early path into calypso followed the traditional route: writing his own material, earning his place through c

Chuck Gordon is stepping into a bold new space with his latest release, Love Mehself . The track delivers a clear message that self-worth, confidence, and personal growth take center stage. Love Mehself highlights a shift in perspective, encouraging listeners to prioritize themselves and move with intention, with a message rooted in self-worth Early reactions suggest the song is already resonating with audiences who connect with its empowering message as Chuck flips the foc