Calypso
It isn't known where the word 'Calypso' came from for sure. One of the
most popular beliefs however is that it derived from the African word
'Kaiso', this
being a corrupted version of the word 'Kaito' meaning 'Bravo'.
Calypso has been sung in the Caribbean for over 200 years, originally
in Patois (a French based mix of dialects and slang). Patois is still
occasionally used in calypso now-a-days by the older Calypsonians, but
most calypso is now in English.
Traditionally, Calypso had many purposes. It was sang as a way to pass
along stories and fables, to let people voice their feelings about the
state of the country, politics and their personal lives, and of course
to entertain.
Who to look out for: Mighty Sparrow, Lord Kitchener, Roaring Lion
Soca
Although born in the late 1970's, Soca has taken a while to develop into
what it is today. Initially intended as a mix of Soul and Calypso (hence
the name), Soca is now the music to fete too! Loud rythmical beats and
a fast pace, Soca music has the energy to keep you jumping up all night.
Who to look out for: Super Blue, Iwer George, Second Imij, Red Plastic Bag... (where do I stop)
Chuckney Soca
After some major hit in recent years, Chutney is finally receiving wider
acknowledgement. A blend of traditional Indian music with Soca, it can
have all the excitement of regular Soca but with an extra bit of spice!
Who to look out for: Chris Garcia
