The popularity of calypso music is dying.This is an important issue we should pay attention to, because it's an intrinsic part of our culture.As society looks away from calypso, these cultural ambassadors struggle to survive both financially and within the music industry. This has led to some of them to surrender the true essence of calypso music–namely to comment on the social ills experienced in this country–to topics which guarantee them a quick dollar.
The radio stations are playing all genres of soca music but not enough calypso. Our music industry is evolving, which is a good thing for our culture, but calypso must not be left behind. Should the government adhere to the call from calypsonians for more money? Let's face it, the popularity of soca in all its variations has easily enabled it's increased funding. But what can we say is the reason to increase the funds for the calypso monarch?
Maybe it could be to preserve our culture, to respect it and to ensure livelihood.
Deborah Sween
Barataria