By: Helen Grenade
August 13, 2024
GRENADA AN ISLAND RICH IN HISTORY AND CULTURE.
These movers and shakers from Grenada are not only influential icons in music but are flying the flag high for the entire Caribbean and the world. Grenada’s musicians have used their voices to transmit Cultural heritage, to highlight the development of Grenada’s music and to foster a sense of unity globally.
These are important figures that are worth mentioning, men and women that have shaped the legacy of Grenadian Calypso and Soca music. Today calypso music continues to influence both the political and social consciousness of Grenadians.
This list has explored the legends Grenada has ever produced in the music industry, and who have lived and died to make Grenada’s music more powerful. Their music will never stop winning the hearts of their fans, and their profound impact on the world. They composed and performed their music in a variety of styles on stage. These icons carried their culture with them wherever they ventured, because calypso and soca are parts of Grenadian life.
Some of these Calypso icons were pioneers of music genres made in Grenada. Their music and lyrics have never ceased to inspire people and a new generation of Calypso and Soca musical artists
These Grenadian Calypso and Soca legends, rose to international superstardom in tandem with their musical ability, that has taken them to an unprecedented level of fame and have helped catapult Grenada and the Caribbean Calypso and Soca Music to a new stratosphere with the eyes of the Caribbean’s rich culture. Grenadians take pride in affirming the super extraordinary work that these idols have delivered as we enter another Carnival season.
Here are the names of some of Grenada’s super icons known for their great songs, unforgettable music, lyrics and incredible unique voices. They are considered to be among the greatest musical artists to emerge from Grenada, and the most influential and widely recognized for their songs and stage performance.
One cannot talk about the 1960s, 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond without mentioning these legendary popular artists, who still today are revolutionizing the music scene. Their songs are meant for everyone to enjoy.
They dominated calypso and soca music in Grenada and the Caribbean. Their lyrics are still known today, and at the end of the day, it’s their lyrics that hold things together with their rhythm as they inspire hope in people.
Icons such as the Mighty Sparrow, Black Wizard, Flying Turkey, Ajamu, Sour Serpent, Rootsman Kelly, Praying Mantis, Inspector, their politically charged lyrics addressed corruption, social injustice, oppression drugs, poverty, education, and peace.
These legends and more have played a significant role in the promotion of Grenade’s music worldwide. Let’s forever honor their contributions in all its forms. They have paved the way for the younger generation of musical artists.
Starting with the greatest of all time, Dr. Slinger Francisco, “The Mighty Sparrow”, and other influential musicians as we uncover their music on Grenada’s History and Culture.
William Elcock, “Scaramouche”, “Papitette”, The original Inspector, Clifton Ryan, “Mighty Bomber”, Cecil Belfon, “Flyin’ Turkey”, Bubbler, Gospo, Patrick Humphrey, “Unlucky”, Edison Mitchell “Ajamu” Elwin Mcquilkin, “Black Wizard”, Lincoln John “Bubbler”, Lady Cinty, Winston Glascow, “African Teller”, Patrick Asa Paul, “Praying Mantis”, Dr. Trevor Friday, John Allard, “Tangler”, Sean Niles “Sour Serpent” , Kelly Clyne, “Rootsman Kelly”, Jerry Baptiste, “Papa Jerry”, Teacher Eddy, Phelon Blacket, “Smallies”, Val Adams, “Defender”, Sheldon Douglas,, “berbice”, “Skylark”, “Beast”, Finley Jeffrey, “Scholar”, ” Croqueta “, “Darius”, Randy Issac, “Squeezie”, “Mister X” “Thunda” “lil Natty” Wilt Cambridge, “Tallpree”, “Soca Banton” “Boyzie” “V’ghn” “Killa”, Shem Bernard, “Terra D Governor” “Slatta” “Jab King” “Lavaman” “Dash”, “Worst Ways” “Lil Kerry”, “Boogie B” “Robulous” and many others.