Five individuals and one institution to be inducted into the Dominica Calypso “Kaiso” Hall of Fame

In a resounding tribute to the melodic rhythms and soulful beats of Calypso, the stage is set for the Fifth Induction Ceremony of the Dominica Calypso “Kaiso” Hall of Fame (DCKHF). This year, the spotlight shines on a cohort comprising not only five distinguished individuals but an institution, all poised to take their place among the pantheon of Calypso legends.

The 2024 cohort which was earlier unveiled, features the contributions of D.B.S Radio – a national beacon in the realm of Calypso music, and five exceptional individuals, namely Ken Robinson, Mark Marie, Cornell Phillip, Fred Nicholas, and Deryck “Hunter” St. Rose who have all left an indelible mark on the dynamic landscape of the art form.

This annual celebration, to be held at the Fort Young Hotel on January 23, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, promises to be more than a mere ceremony but according to the founder Alex Bruno, it will be a harmonious celebration of the enduring legacy of these exceptional figures, who have dedicated their lives to the art and soul of Calypso music.

The proprietor revealed that the DCKHF strictly follows a selection criterion encompassing key facets including longevity/consistency, achievements, impact on humanity, recognizability, dedication to the arts, leadership, and contributions to the positive evolution of the art form. The induction of candidates showcasing excellence in these domains guarantees the continued preservation of Calypso’s cultural significance.

The sole institution to be inducted this year, State-owned D.B.S Radio was selected in recognition of its role as the National Broadcaster and its dedication to preserving the Kaiso culture through music documentation, archiving, promotion, and overall entertainment.

A pioneering figure in the Calypso music scene, Ken Robinson is being acknowledged for his roles as a music producer, publisher, promoter, distributor, archivist, and recording engineer. McCarthy Marie, celebrated as a seasoned music producer, consultant engineer, intellectual property expert, and economist, is receiving acclaim for his notable advancements in the realms of recording and sound engineering, specifically in the context of the Calypso art form.

Cornell Philip, a musical innovator and creator, lyricist, producer, arranger, composer, and musical industries collaborator, is being recognized for his expertise in Kaiso/Creole/Cultural Rhythm Variation. Fred Nicholas, a pioneer in Calypso, Cadence-Lypso, and Soca music, stands poised for induction due to his exceptional skills as a bassist, songwriter, arranger, composer, producer, and musical director, particularly highlighting his technical engineering prowess.

Deryck “Hunter” St. Rose, an icon in Kaiso, Road March, and Soca, is being lauded for his diverse roles as a recording artist, lyricist, composer, producer, entertainer, Kaiso administrator, and Kaiso music exporter.

In a collaborative effort, the DCKHF has partnered with The University of the West Indies Global Campus, Fort Young Hotel, Dominica State College (DSC), and the Sign Man for this year’s event which has taken on the theme, ‘Documenting Calypso, Changing the Beat,’ and will reflect a commitment to capturing and preserving the rich history of Calypso while ushering in transformative changes to the rhythmic landscape.

The Dominica Calypso Association (DCA), the esteemed custodians of Dominica Calypso, has extended its foundational support and endorsement to the DCKHF, underscoring the event’s profound significance within the vibrant Calypso community, Bruno noted.

As the Dominica Calypso “Kaiso” Hall of Fame prepares to welcome its 2024 cohort, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of these institutions and individuals who have tirelessly dedicated themselves to the vibrant world of Calypso. The induction ceremony promises to be an evening filled with nostalgia, celebration, and a profound appreciation for the tireless efforts of these legends in shaping the cultural landscape of Dominica.

The DCKHF stands as an institution deeply rooted in the essence of African performing art and culture. Legally established on May 8, 2008, under the provisions of the Registration of Business Names Act Chap. 78:46 of the Revised Laws of Dominica, this institution was conceived to honour and promote pioneers of the Calypso art form.

The visionary behind this initiative, Alex Bruno, submitted the application for ownership and trade under the name Dominica Calypso “Kaiso” Hall of Fame on April 23, 2008. At its core, the DCKHF is guided by a mission statement that reflects a commitment to operating within the spirit of past connoisseurs of the Caribbean art of Calypso, with a focus on recognizing deserving custodians and practitioners of this art.

The organization’s vision, is to achieve and celebrate excellence in Calypso through competence, honour, and integrity. The organization takes immense pride in its mandate and remains authentic in its efforts to ensure the enduring spirit of Calypso. Recognizing Calypso as an elite traditional art, DCKHF acknowledges the risk of losing its originality in the face of rapidly emerging cultures. As a guardian of this art form, the society sees its role as crucial to the continued viability of Calypso, given the fragility of such traditions in the wake of evolving practices.