This Black History Month we are shining a light on events being held throughout the diocese to celebrate the culture and contribution of black people in our communities. Racial Justice Advisor, the Revd Polly Falconer, known as Dame Polly in Calypso circles, shares what the West African music style means to her...
Calypso – more than just a rhythm
If I had a penny for each time I am asked, ‘what is a Calypsonian?”, my savings tin would contain a healthy sum. The noun appears in my personal profile among my hobbies. My reply to the question is simply, ‘a calypsonian is an entertainer who composes, sings and performs calypsos’.
The Beginning
Calypso evolved from kaiso, in the 17th century. Kaiso is a musical art form that in West Africa, particularly in the area that is now Nigeria, and the Kingdom of Kongo. The influence of the Kongo can be found in the drum rhythms. People would gather in 'kaiso tents' where there would be a lead vocalist encouraging others to participate in the singing. The word kaiso originates from the Ibibio and Igbo tribes of West Africa, meaning 'go forward' or 'join in'. When shouted, it also means ‘more’.
Kaiso was originally used as a form of resistance and communication, enabling slaves to share news and critique their masters. Songs were generally narrative with some containing cleverly coded lyrics with hidden political and social messages. This rhythmic storytelling was accompanied by drumming. It is reported that Kaiso was brought to Trinidad by enslaved Africans and continued to be an important way of spreading news. The term ‘calypso’ dates back to the 1890s, with many believing that the origins are Trinidadian. Nowadays, we use both the terms are used, with veteran Calypsonians more likely to refer to Kaiso, wanting to preserve the history and the story of calypso for generations to come. I recently performed with a backing duo renamed The Kaiso Gems by a celebrated calypsonian, demonstrating the importance of its origins.
The Continued Journey
Calypso is usually associated with Caribbean communities, particularly carnivals. It is identified by the drum beat & tempo, and is known for its satirical and comedic lyrics, as well as its social commentary. Calypso artists tend to write songs that tell their own story, or stories of communities and political and social situations that are topical and important to them. This is social commentary at its best, coming from the heart. Songs relating to the plight of young people, discrimination and addiction, as well as social justice are not uncommon. These songs describe the issue, ask questions, and occasionally make suggestions for a solution. Most Calypsonians will perform at least one social commentary song in a ‘calypso tent, a live event in a temporary venue. The use of the word tent also reflects the origin where African slaves sang and chanted in makeshift shelters away from those that enslaved them.
The second performance tends to be comedic. For example, a fellow Calypsonian wrote and performed a song called Traffic Warden which included a verse about a parking ticket on a hearse outside a church. He also performed a song called Telly Addict, an amusing tale relating to his wife’s obsession with soaps and reality TV.
Calypsonians use conscious lyrics, which contain a positive message with an aim to uplift, enlighten, and connect with the listeners, or address deeper social and personal themes. Along with the style and tempo of the music, these are vital markers of calypso. Although some songs may be controversial, offensive language is frowned upon and would be unlikely to be permitted in a calypso tent.
The Performance
At a calypso tent, you can expect to witness expressive performances where body language, facial expressions and props such as suitcases or uniforms, are often used to enhance the storytelling and engage the audience.
Contrary to popular belief, calypso is not always an upbeat tempo. While rhythmic drumming defines the music style, the tempo is dictated by the seriousness of the subject matter. Social commentary songs for example, tend to be slower, enabling the lyrical content to be focused on and understood. Carnival party songs on the other hand, are created to make you dance. With social commentary, the words of each chorus may be completely different, effectively telling the whole story.
Each calypso tent will include an extempo performance where two Calypsonians are chosen for what is a challenge. The audience or fellow Calypsonians will choose a random topic or theme and the band will play a slow repetitive extempo rhythm. Each performer takes turns to improvise lyrics in rhythmic speech before the audience. There is no rehearsal or warning, just a single word that must generate a debate between them, a challenge, and subsequently end in an agreement. It is competitive, and winner is judged on the wit and ingenuity of the performance.
Politics
Calypsonians have never shied away from politics. They do not specifically call out political parties, but they will often highlight injustice. It is about the impact of policies visible in the community and the fragility society in general. Songs about local issues such as education, poverty and greed and peace and unity are common, as are songs about poverty and greed, raising awareness of things like addiction or disharmony in families features too. Some songs are controversial and can forced to be kept within the calypso tents. Get Out by Tobago Crusoe is an example of this.
How has calypso changed?
The sound has evolved with the addition of different types of instruments. Almost all 'tents' include a brass section, electric guitar, keyboard and bass guitar, although some veterans stick to the acoustic guitar. Soca is an updated form of calypso. It is slightly faster, uses less percussion, and is generally less about social commentary and more about dancing and having fun. Soca is sometimes in the music charts with hits like Feeling Hot Hot Hot, and Who Let the Dogs Out?
In some communities, events such as receptions or wakes are sometimes blessed with spiritual calypso songs, or traditional hymns performed in a calypso rhythm by popular artists.
Can anyone ‘sing’ calypso?
It’s worth a try. You don’t need a good voice; you do need to want to tell the story as this gives you confidence and it almost like a performance of a conversation. Phrasing can be a challenge, but practice makes perfect
ABC
The Association of British Calypsonians are striving to keep the art of calypso alive. Last year, they held workshops for young people to encourage them to write and perform calypso. It would be sad to see the end of this musical art form. Soca will remain popular through carnivals, but the loss of social commentary and ex tempo would mark the end of calypso in its original form and it would lose its historical significance.
Calypso in worship. Really?
- Already examples of hymns with a calypso type beat
- Many hymns have been remixed to a calypso beats (these are often used to bless events in the Caribbean community)
- Worship styles are changing, so why not include calypso worship songs?
My Personal Saviour
When I was a youngster-- I went to Sunday School
I heard about Jesus --- and how he did so much good.
In our school assembly ---they always mentioned his name
Then during Christmas time -- I learned about how he came.
I loved stories -- like Jonah and the big fish.
And often wondered ---“did it really happen like this?”
Then as I got older - and things started to go wrong.
I turned myself toward Jesus
And found that he made me strong.
My Personal Saviour, He walks with me every day.
My personal Saviour is here to show me the way
When I am in darkness - he’s my light and my guide
No matter what I am searching for - I know the Lord will provide. Praise Him!
Each morning I wake up - I thank the Lord for the day
I think of my blessings - get on my knees and pray
I ask him to help me - to do what I need to do
Obey his commandments. -- I know that he’ll guide me through
It’s never easy, --- the world seems so full of hate
Too much greed and anger-----so many people displaced
I have to say thank you Lord --- for you gave us your Son
I pray for peace in this troubled world
and may your will be done
My Personal Saviour, he finds me when I am lost
I know that he loves me - He died for me on the cross
Through his resurrection – I know that I can live on
I read about the eternal life -- in the Gospel of John. Praise Him!
The Lord is my fortress ---my life I place in his hands
He always forgives me --- my weakness he understands
If something is needed – he gives me what I ask for
If I need to call on him – I knock and he’ll open the door
The Lord is my teacher-- there’s always something to learn
When I read the scriptures there’s -- so much I need to discern
The Holy Spirit -- is what I need deep within
To give strength when temptation calls to show me the way to sin
My personal Saviour, he called me just as I was
And then he changed me -- He blessed me from up above
He told me to go out and --- spread the good news to all
I know whenever I make mistakes – God catches me when I fall. Praise Him!
The Lord is my shepherd --- Yes, I am one of the herd
Grazing this troubled Land - but nourished by His Word
He has a plan for me-- I know he’s calling you too
It’s not impossible -- here is what you must do
Reach out to others -- love them as you are loved
Always read the bible - the guidance from up above
Remember that we are – part of the body of Christ
We pray together for unity – acknowledging God in our life
My Personal Saviour, He walks with me every day.
My personal Saviour is here to show me the way
When I am in darkness - he’s my light and my guide
No matter what I am searching for - I know the Lord will provide. Praise Him! (Repeat)
© 2023 Revd. Polly Falconer