The allure of calypso music: a journey into the world of passionate Caribbean classics

Victory Test MatchLord Beginner

LORD BEGINNER – Victory Test Match

This is a song that celebrates a historic cricket victory on the British mainland with a cheerful rhythm and warm vocals.

Lord Beginner from Trinidad and Tobago vividly portrays, with all the charm of calypso music, the moment in June 1950 when the West Indies national team defeated England.

Released the same year by the Melodisc label as a 10-inch shellac record, the single features “Sergeant Brown” on the B-side.

Its lyrics bring the course of the match and the players’ exploits to life, making it a recommendation not only for sports fans but also for anyone interested in the musical culture of the Caribbean.

Portrait of TrinidadMighty Sniper

Mighty Sniper – Portrait of Trinidad

This is a signature work by Mighty Sniper, a leading singer in Trinidad and Tobago’s calypso scene.

Set to a cheerful Caribbean rhythm, the song celebrates love and pride for the homeland, filling the listener with a sense of openness—like gazing out at blue seas and white sandy beaches.

Yet behind the vocals lies a sharp gaze at society grappling with nation-building in the post-independence era.

Released as a single by RCA Victor in 1965, it won the Calypso Monarch contest that same year.

It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the satire and humor unique to calypso while feeling the warmth of the sun and the heat of Carnival.

Recommended for moments when you want a taste of a tropical holiday or music that makes your heart dance.

Bee’s MelodyLord Kitchener

Lord Kitchener – Bee’s Melody

Music brimming with the brightness and warmth of the Caribbean sun was included on the 1992 album The Honey In Kitch.

Created by Lord Kitchener from Trinidad and Tobago, the piece beautifully blends the refreshing tones of the steelpan with the vitality of calypso.

As a leading figure in Caribbean music, his artistry shines throughout, and the lyrics—humorously depicting the everyday experience of being stung by a bee—leave a strong impression.

In 1994, it was also featured on the compilation album Klassic Kitchener Volume Three and received high praise in a performance by the Renegades Steel Orchestra.

Its cheerful rhythms and polished melodies make it highly recommended for any music fan seeking a heartwarming moment.

Calypso InvasionDuke Of Iron

Duke Of Iron – Calypso Invasion

A heart-thumping moment arrives with the passionate sounds from the sun-sparkling Caribbean.

Created in 1946 by the Trinidad and Tobago–born Duke of Iron, this exciting track fuses tropical rhythms with elements of jazz and blues.

When it was performed at New York’s Renaissance Ballroom, folklorist Alan Lomax praised it highly, helping to stir up a calypso breeze in the American popular music scene.

It was first released as a 78 rpm record on Apollo Records, and later issued as an EP in 1957 by RCA Italiana in Italy.

Its humor-laced, satirical lyrics and breezy groove make it perfect for parties or a drive.

Soak up the sunshine and feel the Caribbean sea breeze.

Feeling Hot Hot HotThe Merrymen

The Merrymen – Feeling Hot Hot Hot

Marry Me is a calypso band formed in Barbados.

Their music career spanned about 50 years, from the early 1960s into the 2000s.

This track is included on the album “No Big Ting,” released in 1983.

Jump In the LineHarry Belafonte

Jump In the Line

This is a memorable classic filled with the sunshine and sizzling rhythms of the Caribbean.

It’s a superb calypso number recorded by American singer Harry Belafonte on his November 1961 album “Jump Up Calypso,” which became a major hit, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard 200 chart.

The dynamic sound woven by steelpan and percussion blends seamlessly with Belafonte’s clear vocals, creating a liberating feeling as if you’re dancing under the sun.

The song was featured in the ending of the 1988 film “Beetlejuice,” winning new fans across generations.

It’s the perfect track for anyone who wants to savor the allure of calypso music or feel the sun shining in their heart.

Doctor KitchLord Kitchener

Doctor Kitch

A masterpiece brimming with the heat and jubilation of the Caribbean, this calypso classic was recorded in January 1963.

Hailing from Trinidad and Tobago, Lord Kitchener unfolds vivid social satire through a humorous back-and-forth between doctor and patient.

Its buoyant rhythm and horn-driven, cheerful melody naturally draw listeners into a whirl of dancing.

Included on the album “Doctor Kitch,” released the same year, the song garnered high praise worldwide.

Its light, urbane vocals and lyrics rich with double entendre have been covered by artists across genres such as jazz and reggae.

It’s a perfect track for basking on a sunny beach or turning up the energy at a party with friends.