Mary Cuffy
Calypso is the heart of the people of T&T, and it is celebrated in October, which has been dubbed Calypso History Month.
The observance was officially declared by TUCO (Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation) in 2002.
Zachary Ransome and friends, Jalessa Lazarus, Cael Pyke, and Jimecya Burnett share their views on Calypso History Month with Guardian Kids.
Zachary Ransome
A charismatic and instinctive performer, ten-year-old Zachary Ransome bravely took to the stage of Fyzabad at the early age of four and has never looked back. Staying true to his aspiration to be one of the world's most noted entertainers, he has continued to compete, win, and perform under the management of his mother.
His career thus far includes a first place in the 12 and Under category at the Aunty Tova’s Icons of Calypso competition with his rendition of Shadow’s “Bassman”, third place in the TUCO National Junior Calypso Monarch in 2023, and the production of two soca parang songs, 'First in the Kitchen' and ‘Sing Zacky Sing’.
In 2024, he claimed second place in the National Junior Calypso Monarch and first place in the Junior Soca Monarch with his hit song ‘Rankatang’ and is currently the three-time consecutive Eastern Credit Union’s Primary School Junior Monarch since 2022.
"My thoughts on the importance of calypso are that it teaches us about more of our culture/country as well, and it influences me to sing calypso and make history for Trinidad and Tobago. Calypso also has emotions that others can relate to.
"Shadow’s Bassman is one of my favourite calypsoes. Not only are the rhythm and lyrics infectious, but understanding historically what that song did for Shadow’s career and his contribution to calypso and soca music makes that song one of my favourites.
"Calypso is seen as relevant and appreciated only during Carnival time. Calypso History Month allows a focus on calypso outside of Carnival. A focus on the past and foundation as opposed to the new. A chance to celebrate accomplishments and give flowers to those who are still here or have gone that paved the way for the art form. A chance to teach those who don’t know and understand. It is an opportunity to focus on and respect the historical figures in calypso who paved the way for young calypsonians today."
Jalessa Lazarus
Jalessa Lazarus is a 14-year-old who lives in east Trinidad. She dreams of becoming an international recording artiste. Jalessa started singing at the tender age of three and loves playing the piano and guitar.
In 2023, Jalessa released her first soca, 'Kiddies Carnival' written by Jason Bishop featuring Nicki Crosby. She entered the junior soca competition and placed second.
In 2024, she released 'Focus' with a message for young boys and girls to focus on their education. Jalessa is passionate, loves music, and works hard towards her goals.
"My thoughts on the importance of calypso are that it teaches us about more of our culture/country as well, and it influences me to sing calypso and make history for Trinidad and Tobago. Calypso also has emotions that others can relate to."
Cael Pyke
Cael was born into a family of music lovers. In 2022, he co-hosted the largest carnival children's show, Kids So Amazing Carnival, with local social media talent, actor, and entertainment extraordinaire Rodey. He also took part in the Zachary and Friends Kids Show, where he shared the stage with his many talented friends. With his larger-than-life personality, Cael aspires to be one of the world's most noted entertainers shortly.
"For me, Calypso History Month is a very integral part of our essence as musical inventors. It is the time that we celebrate our genre, the many accomplishments, and the endless stalwarts who have played a part in our DNA as Trinbagonians. One of my absolute favourite calypsoians is the late great Black Stalin. I particularly love his classic hit 'Ah Feel to Party'... It just makes me feel good! Makes me feel to dance!"
Jimecya Burnett
Jimecya Burnett began singing at the age of six and began performing calypso at the age of 14. She placed first in the NYAC and NACC Emancipation Calypso Competition in 2022, and placed second in the Point Fortin Kids in Culture for the years 2016, 2017, and 2018.
Jimecya was also the second place winner in the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Song Competition, second place winner in the South Junior Monarch 2022, and sixth place winner in the National Junior Calypso Competition 2022.
"Calypso was our ancestors' way of communicating during slavery; at times people tend to forget what is calypso and what it means because they focus so much on competition and money, so they forget the mission of calypso.
Calypso is used to send messages as our ancestors did and tell stories.
“Is Calypso History Month important?” Yes indeed, to remember those great legends who have left us and to remind those who forget what calypso is, where it came from, who we came from, and even who we are, and where we can be. The calypso ‘Winners never quit’ by the stunning Karene Asche influences my everyday life as she states, “One thing in life that you must avoid is negative people," “you only fail when you fail to try," “winners never quit and quitters never win," “no matter what you meet in life, no matter the pain or strive, don’t give up!” I’ve had a lot of life lessons, and this song keeps me going.
Mary Cuffy is an educator and local children’s author. Ms Cuffy is the author of the Ladybug book series. Ms Cuffy believes the best investment we can make in children is in the early years. Email: mary.cuffy@yahoo.com • IG: marycuffy • FB: mary cuffy/Lola and the Dancing Ladybug
