Public plea to help ailing Blaxx

Fans and associates of soca artiste Dexter “Blaxx” Stewart are seeking to raise funds to help him after a recent surgery for an undisclosed illness.

A close associate, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that Blaxx had been recently discharged from hospital after undergoing surgery.

She said, “It was very complicated at this time and it surrounded a host of problems which included his kidneys and lungs.

“We pray for his speedy recovery and appreciate all the calls and support so far.”

The woman said Blaxx's medical bills were extremely high and appreciated any assistance necessary but noted that he was at home resting.

“All entertainers and the entertainment industry have been hit hard with the covid19 pandemic and income for them has been next to nothing. So, you could imagine having to face this predicament now,” she said.

Ronnie McIntosh, another musical icon who worked with Blaxx over the years said it was disheartening that cultural icons were treated poorly by the people and country they represent.

“I spoke with Blaxx about a week ago and he is in good spirits, trying to recover as fast as he could. I was not aware that there was social media plea for financial assistance.

“It is sad that an entertainer, someone who has contributed so much to this country’s economy through carnival, now has to go down this road.

“Soca has no pension and those promoters who owe Blaxx money should pay up,” he said.

A staple in soca music industry and TT Carnival, Blaxx, 57, has a successful career with many smashing hits during his career. He started his musical career at the age of 13, when he joined his father’s band Jerry and New School.

Blaxx later moved on to Fucceccion, Atlantic, Byron Lee and the Dragonaires and Blue Ventures. His role with Roy Cape All Stars cemented his place in local history.

Some of his well-known songs included Breathless, Tusty, Tanty Woi, Hunting, Hulk, and Carnival Jumbie. Some of his 2019 songs were Same Way, Canboulay.

He is also well-known for his catch phrases “alyuh come een” and “ban yuh belly.”

The news of Blaxx’s medical condition comes on the heels of an already battered entertainment industry, with the loss of actor and comedian Dennis “Sprangalang” Hall, musical director Joy Caesar, pop singer Hazel Rambaransingh, rising dancehall star Kwinton “K Lion” Thomas, drama arts director James Lee Wah and East Indian classical singer Sam Boodram among others.

Contributions to assist Blaxx can be made at the Republic Bank, San Juan branch, account number 320-801-024-001. Donations can also be made by calling 762-3740 and 753- 1221 or via WhatsApp at 755-6865.