Poser at 83: Celebrating a Life in Calypso

Today, September 6, Trinidad and Tobago celebrates the birthday of veteran calypsonian Sylvester Lockhart, better known as Poser, whose career has stretched across more than six decades of the nation's musical history.

Born in 1943, Poser's journey into music began with the steelpan. Growing up in the Matura and Sangre Grande area, he developed his musical foundation playing with steelbands before turning his attention to calypso. He began singing in 1962 and reportedly captured the Sangre Grande calypso competition for five consecutive years before testing himself against the established names in Port of Spain.

His biggest Carnival triumph came in 1979, when “Ah Tell She” captured the Trinidad and Tobago Road March title and permanently placed Poser's name among the celebrated performers of the era. Over the years, songs including “Bus Conductor,” “Party Tonight” and “Town Man” helped establish his reputation for lively storytelling, humour and music grounded in everyday Trinidad and Tobago life.

His cultural contribution has also travelled beyond Trinidad and Tobago. In 2023, Poser received a Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Achievement Award in New York, with his contribution also recognised by the country's Consulate General there.

At 83, Poser's story represents much more than one Road March victory. It is the story of a performer who has remained connected to calypso through changing generations, changing sounds and changing Carnivals.

Today, TUCO joins the calypso fraternity in wishing Sylvester “Poser” Lockhart a very Happy 83rd Birthday and thanking him for a lifetime of music, memories and service to the culture.