The allure of calypso music: a journey into the world of passionate Caribbean classics
Calypso, the music that shines under the Caribbean sun.
Harry Belafonte’s “Banana Boat Song” was born from the songs of dock workers and became a beloved classic around the world.
Nurtured by Trinidad and Tobago’s Mighty Sparrow and Lord Kitchener, calypso has continued to evolve alongside the heat of Carnival.
Its rhythms are infused with people’s daily lives and joys, and with the light of the sun.
A gift from the Caribbean—let’s set out into the exhilarating world of calypso.
The allure of calypso music: Step into the world of passionate Caribbean classics (1–10)
Fire In Your WireCalypso Rose
Calypso Rose is a calypsonian who has been active since 1964.
She began songwriting at the age of 15 and has released over 800 songs and more than 20 albums to date.
She has received numerous awards, including the 1984 “Queen of Soca and Calypso Award” from Super Jocks Records.
Ba Boo La LaRoaring Lion
Roaring Lion was a calypsonian from Trinidad and Tobago who was active from the 1930s.
Over a career spanning more than 65 years, he released many hit songs that continue to be performed by numerous artists to this day.
This track was released in 1938.
CryingSinging Sandra
Sandra DesVignes-Millington, known as Singing Sandra, is a Trinidad and Tobago calypsonian who has been active since the 1980s.
She won the Calypso Monarch competition in 1999 and 2003.
Calypso QueenCalypso Rose
With a voice as bright and powerful as the Caribbean sun, Calypso Rose from Trinidad and Tobago captivates listeners.
Produced by Manu Chao, this track from the album “Far From Home” is a gem that blends traditional calypso music with modern arrangements.
Released in April 2016, the album became a major hit and was certified gold in France.
Riding a cheerful, danceable rhythm, she proudly sings of her life and career.
The Queen of Calypso’s voice, brimming with pride and joy, will set your heart free and make you want to dance.
Hot-Hot-HotArrow
A Caribbean classic track released in 1983 by Arrow, a calypso and soca musician active since 1959.
In the United States, it has become very popular at cruise ships, weddings, and other celebratory occasions.
In 1994, the “World Carnival Mix ’94” was released and became a hit in the UK and elsewhere.
Jamaica FarewellHarry Belafonte
This is a song that warmly embraces the nostalgia and parting sentiments of the West Indies, showcasing the charm of calypso master Harry Belafonte.
Released in North America in August 1956, it is based on the melody of the traditional Jamaican folk song “Iron Bar,” with new lyrics introduced by Barbados-born songwriter Irving Burgie.
Gently singing of the beautiful scenery of Kingston and the memories left there, it drew major attention in the United States alongside the album Calypso.
Melodious and mento-tinged, the piece pleasantly conveys the sunlit atmosphere of the Caribbean and offers a heartwarming moment.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to during a calm evening or when lingering over a farewell with someone dear.
MathildaKing Radio
A heart-stirring tale of heartbreak by King Radio of Trinidad and Tobago, a leading figure of calypso’s golden age.
Bathed in the Caribbean sun, the buoyant rhythms and the keen observations he honed while working as a dock laborer and pursuing music weave a story that wraps even the pain of lost love in warm humor.
Since its smash success in 1939, the song has been covered by countless artists—including Harry Belafonte—and has become a legendary piece that helped bring calypso music to the world.
This work portrays a lovesick protagonist thinking of the sweetheart who fled to Venezuela, set to an irresistibly lively melody.
It’s a classic packed with the subtleties of life beneath a bright, cheerful mood—perfect for a refreshing morning drive.