A man ahead of the times

THE EDITOR: The iconic image of the Mighty Shadow attired in signature skeleton suit as he jumped on the spot in perfect unison with his dread beat of another classic from his vast repertoire at the smoke-filled stage of his Masters’ Den in the 80s, is certainly an image which has resonated in my mind as I warmly remember him and his contribution to the calypso art form.

If ever there was a sub-genre of calypso called alternative calypso, Shadow would have been its standard bearer. Ahead of his time, unique in his style and delivery, filled with an aura of mystique, he was the absolute performer who commanded the stage and captivated audiences for well over five decades in which he transcended the varying styles within the evolution of calypso music.

When one considers the vast riches of his catalogue, it is difficult to determine his definite tunes that defined him as his song book is so varied.I have however singled out the following:-

“Poverty is Hell” is perhaps the most accurate portrayal of adverse economic circumstances in Trinidad; written in the 90s it is still relevant today and it remains a mystery that during the year of its release, he failed to make the big yard with what became a timeless gem.

“Stranger” perhaps the last of the melodic road marches and one punctuated with the classical storytelling as a tourist is educated on the infectious and rhythmic soca beats.

“Obeah” was an education in the local occult and provided the sheer tension of any expression in mainstream entertainment in the horror genre.

“ Yuh looking for horn” is another gem that examines the reasons and ramifications of infidelity within a local context; and

“One Love” is as much an universal anthem promoting peace and unity as John Lennon’s “Imagine” or Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds”Rest in peace, Dr Winston Bailey, your music is indeed timeless as is your legend and enigma. Thank you for the music!

ROLAND HOSEIN via email