Trinidadian Calypsonian Leroy Calliste better known as “Black Stalin,” died at the age of 81. Stalin suffered a stroke in 2014 and passed away on December 28th, 2022 at his home in San Fernando surrounded by his loved ones.

Born in San Fernando Trinidad and Tobago on September 24th, 1941, Leroy Calliste emerged to be one of the most popular Calypsonians of all time. In 1959 Calliste began singing Calypso for the first time and debuted at the Good Shepherd Hall in St. Madeleine. Three years later in 1962, Calliste started his Calypso Tent journey with the Southern Brigade. This would mark the start of his prolific career. During the 1960’s Calliste found his voice and was given the nickname “Black Stalin,” by Blake, another Calypsonian.

Throughout his career, Stalin won the Calypso Monarch an impressive total of 5 times. In 1979 he won with “Caribbean Man” and “Play One.”  His other four victories were in 1985, 1987, 1991, and 1995. With all this success Stalin became a very popular and influential figure in the Caribbean music industry. His songs encompassed the essence of Trinidadian culture with tunes such as “Black Man Feeling to Party,” which won him the calypso monarch title in 1991 using complex, catchy rhythms.

Stalin’s music expresses many different facets of Trinidad’s culture. For example, his song “Tribute to Sundar Popo,” which won him the calypso monarch title in 1995 was infused with chutney music.

Leroy Calliste was honoured by his home country of Trinidad and Tobago in 1987 for his contribution to Caribbean culture and was given the silver Hummingbird Medal. Another crowning achievement of his career came in 1991 when he was awarded the Calypso King of the World title. Stalin was also honoured in 2008 by the University of the West Indies with a doctorate for his outstanding contribution to Trinidadian music and culture.

Caribbean Entertainment Hub would like to offer condolences to his family, loved ones, Calypso Fraternity, and fans all over. This Carnival as you party and jam to some sweet Calypso tunes, don’t forget to pay Tribute to “Black Stalin,” a true legend of Caribbean culture.

 

References

Newsdaytt https://newsday.co.tt/2022/12/28/breaking-news-calypso-veteran-black-stalin-dies/

DailyExpress https://trinidadexpress.com/newsextra/the-black-stalin-has-died/article_9862748a-86c2-11ed-918f-5fe28f0a1b11.html

 

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