The Kaiso Effect

This prospective calypsonian has no experience in writing, song composition or singing, for that matter. He just feels he has to speak. Indeed he wants his 10 minutes of fame on stage. After all, the government and other officials have access to various media whenever they so choose. Now is his time, probably his only time, once a year to say his bit.

He has a decision to make; should he pay a visit to Pat Aaron our most renowned Calypso writer/ composer or the next best bet, Ian Jackson who may be more a social than a political commentator and perhaps more subtle with his political compositions? Tim Durand could be a great alternative as he usually stays clear of all things political. Again, maybe he should just do his own thing and keep all the money, even at the risk of not passing Eliminations. At least he would have said what he wanted. Another choice he has is instructing the writer as to what he wants to say and have him craft. After all, he is a Laborite and doesn’t want to offend the ruling party. Who knows, he is a bus driver or a small businessman with a family, a child to send to university or he may require duty-free concession. Certainly, he can’t risk this. “I will do my ting”, he surmises and stays away from the politics even if I am so affected.

Registration completed, now the long nights in the band-house with the JPR Band- Jerry, Peter and Refuse. He comes from a rural district and finds himself down as number 37 out of the over 60 registrants for practice. Practice coordinator, Haxey, tells him to wait and chill “First come, first serve” regardless of the fact that he has far to go.

He grinds his teeth amidst the cold Elmshall breeze and the unprepared calypsonians who can’t keep timing, stay in key, have not learnt their song and elongate their practice time while ‘Refuse’ reminds “fellas it getting dark, you know”. It’s now after 11pm; number 20 is called; he is way down at 37. He only now regrets that he should have heeded the earlier calls to practice and avoid the final three-day rush before Eliminations.

Meanwhile, another calypsonian is a budding artiste of sorts and bravely takes on the challenge to be an echo the sentiments of the people. Whether it is crooked politicians, incest, social commentary, he’s all for it without fear or favor. He recognizes his job is to come out from his comfort zone, recognizing his role is not to patronize but to champion causes and use the privileged position of the stage to reflect views of the populace, controversial or not.