tidings
Corey Connelly
SEVERAL cultural groups in Tobago gathered at the Plymouth Recreation Ground on Monday to honor the life and contributions of veteran calypsonian Lord Nelson (Robert Alphonso Nelson).
The cultural presentation, which featured a procession of traditional carnival characters, tambourine and drum music and African dances, preceded a gala concert to honor the calypso legend. The event was part of a series of concerts, organized by Tobago Music Arts and Culture (TOMAC), celebrating the island’s Nigerian heritage.
Nelson, 91, was born in Plymouth on July 27, 1931, a stone’s throw from the recreation ground.
He returned to Tobago on Sunday afternoon, almost a month after he was conferred the title of Bobagunwa of Iwo-Ate, Nigeria, Africa on September 27.
Lord Nelson was wheeled out of the terminal building to a standing ovation from members of the TOMAC executive team, airport staff, passers-by and other well-wishers.
Historian and Newsday columnist Dr Rita Pemberton was also on hand to welcome the calypso icon.
Looking regal in a red and white African-inspired hooded outfit, Nelson, upon hearing the sweet tambourine and drumming music, got up and danced to the delight of the spectators, who seemed visibly surprised by the enthusiasm and his energy. Many took out their cell phones to catch him dancing.
Among the tunes played was his classic, All Ah We Is One Family. Some people wore T-shirts with “Let’s Have A Good Time” printed on them, in honor of another Nelson classic, Mih Lover.
Lord Nelson told reporters that words could not express how he felt being on his home island.
“I feel wonderful, wonderful, happy beyond happiness. There is no way to explain today. But I’m at home,” he said.
Nelson said he returned from his motherland, where he was given the title Chief Bobagunwa.
“Chief Bobagunwa paves the way for all to come.”
After leaving the airport, Lord Nelson attended a Fisherman’s Day event at Black Rock. It was revealed that, as a gift from Nelson to the people of Tobago, Monday’s TOMAC festival opening ceremony and tribute concert would be free for all general admission patrons.
TOMAC then announced that they would be in contact with all general admission customers to fix and upgrade or refund.
