Riding a crest of popularity is C2k13 National Calypso Monarch Sangre Grande bard Eric Taylor (Pink Panther). After years of labouring in the vineyard, he finally clinched the coveted title with Travel Woes and Crying In The Chapel. It took place at the Queen's Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, on Thursday.
Like a hookline from a Road March contender, people have been singing "Ah can't find the partnership." The subtle meaning is citizens are yearning for proper governance from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar's People's Partnership administration.
Unknown to calypso connoisseurs it was veteran calypsonian and former eight-time monarch Prof Hollis Liverpool who penned the gems of political satire and social commentary. Crying In the Chapel deals with the loss of valuable cultural icons like Lord Conqueror and Sedley Joseph (Penguin). Both bards belong to the Kalypso Revue tent based at Wrightson Road, Port-of-Spain.
Asked about his contribution, Prof Liverpool said, "I came to the Revue tent and I grew to love him. When I saw he didn't have a song, I gave him two songs. I did a masterful job. Some people are saying I shouldn't have given him it. But I am a good Catholic. And I follow the Biblical injunction to treat my neighbours as I treat myself, or even better."
In the spirit of goodwill, Liverpool is celebrating Taylor's victory. In a previous interview, Taylor had described him as "his godfather."
"I feel good. I took over others. I was a godfather to others. But they were not as respectful. So Iet them go," said Liverpool.
"I wrote the songs for him because he has talent. In Chapel, people are feting while calypsonians are crying. Calypso must be put into language that is not abrasive or arrogant."
For C2k12, Liverpool said, "I cried with him when he didn't place. I cried this year with him for his victory."
Liverpool was also a strong competitor with Prodigal Son and Virginia's Alzheimer.
"I thank the judges for placing me ninth although I was looking for my ninth victory," said Liverpool.
