Monarch Calypso Terri Lyons shares her calypso favorites
Lessons about history, ethics, poetry, and ways of life are often taught in calypso texts. But is the appreciation of rhythm overriding the value of lyrics in Trinidad & Tobago music as other genres grow in popularity? T&T’s reigning monarch, Calypso Terry Lyons has been singing calypso since elementary school. She has worked alongside prolific songwriters, singers and producers around the world, and as the daughter of calypso and soca legend Austin “Superblue” Lyons (formerly known as Blue Boy), she credits her father as her inspiration. Bigger. Here are her top five personal kaiso classics and what makes them special.
Religions
by Blue Boy (now called Superblu)
“When most people hear the word kaiso, they think of songs based on social or political commentary. This song, although often labeled as just soca, perfectly combined elements of soca and kaiso and definitely brought a party vibe with it.”
We can make it if we try
from Stalin the Black
“Get up! This is a topic that will always be relevant. This song was released in 1988 and is still played today. It is what I would call an ‘eternal theme’. Somewhere in the world, an individual or an entire nation may need to be lifted up, and this song can do that.”
Common entry corruption
by Cro Cro (aka Mighty Dwarf)
“That’s what kaiso is all about – not being afraid to talk about sensitive subjects or call names. This song spoke to the problems our people faced, giving a voice to those who felt like their plight was ignored. Not only is this one of my favorite kaiso songs, but Cro Cro is one of my favorite calypsonians of all time.”
Sledgehammer
by David Rudder
“I am fascinated by the way he educates through song. King David Michael Rudder is here telling the story through pure poetry in music that will make us dance.”
rumor
from the Mighty Shadow
“This is one of my all-time favorites simply because it’s so unique. This is not a topic that most writers would consider developing as kaiso content. Simple and effective. Most Kaisonians follow what’s trending, but not Shadow. He always found a way to bring his own unique vibe, actually giving us what we as listeners wanted by mixing it with his style. Another song that will forever be relevant, as the rumor has its roots in Caribbean culture.”
