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  • 5 hours ago
The role of Calypso as a mirror of society was on full display last evening, as the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians' Organisation staged the second edition of D'Kaiso Dynasty 2026.

The event brought together seasoned calypsonians and emerging voices, using performance to tackle social issues while keeping the artform's traditions alive during the Carnival season.

Sharla Kistow reports.
Transcript
00:00More than entertainment, the Kaiso dynasty served as a reminder of Calypso's enduring responsibility
00:13to question, comment and connect with the lived experiences of the people.
00:18As Toku's flagship Calypso tent and one of several operating throughout the carnival season,
00:23the platform gave artists the freedom to confront national issues through sharp lyrics and storytelling.
00:30Calypstonian Rikijai used this performance to highlight challenges at the community level, reinforcing Calypso's grassroots.
01:00Economic pressure was another reoccurring theme, with son of the late great Lord Kitchener, Colonel Roberts,
01:07addressing the rising cost of living and its impact on everyday citizens.
01:11So you raise up the price of whiskey, white rum and vodka.
01:18Barfly's now calling for pressure, Kamla.
01:22And you say that you are a don't think sincere grandmother.
01:28Caring for the poor taxpayer.
01:32Yes, you send home the poor folks who cut in grass with sea pep.
01:36From C-drunk to Valsen and U-Rep.
01:41So you're leaving me wondering if your party's policies can improve the state of mighty auntie.
01:50Former Calypso monarch Winston Gypsy Peters turned the spotlight inward,
01:55questioning whether the message behind the music is still being valued in a rapidly changing cultural space.
02:00Am I wasting another song to tell black children, go to school and learn?
02:07Am I wasting another song to tell them that you must respect your own?
02:13Am I wasting another song to tell them, fuck, you doing this wrong?
02:18Am I wasting another song to tell them, we've been doing wrong too long?
02:24Am I wasting another song to tell them, oh God, we have to be strong?
02:29Am I wasting, am I wasting, am I wasting another song?
02:39The tent also bridged generations with younger artists like Young Brother,
02:44bringing fresh energy while acknowledging the foundation lead by Calypso's pioneers.
02:48Cause we are, and we're free, what we dream, tell them we could be.
02:57So come on and dream it, come along and do it, push yourself and build it.
03:04Listen to me, they call me the messenger, tell them, this story I tell, tell them.
03:11I come met a reminder, tell them, darkness to repel, tell them.
03:15I told me truth I never tell no lie, tell them, tell them, this is the story I make a two guys, tell them.
03:20Could only say it ain't open high, tell them, tell them, from the botanicals out and fly, tell them.
03:24Yes, I am the messenger, tell them, I come to ignite, tell them.
03:29Reigning Caribbean Calypso Queen Terry Lyons' performance centered on prayer and reflection,
03:34calling for unity and healing for the nation.
03:37I pray for my people to not lose their fire.
03:40Amen.
03:42I send in prayers for those who suffer in silence.
03:45Amen.
03:47Grant them wisdom, cures, clarity and guidance.
03:51Amen.
03:53I pray for the young and I pray for the old.
03:56Cover their minds, Lord, don't let them lose control.
03:58Though we stand in sin, our transgressions are many.
04:01Thank God for the life that he gave we, all you who doubt it and lose it, please.
04:06Time to congregate and no time to settle.
04:09Look, I'm calling on my prayer warriors and I'm a country.
04:12Come for Trent, beg on need we, cause the Trinity that need a blessing.
04:17The beg on need a blessing.
04:20Charlotte Kisto, TV6 News.
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