BASSETERRE, ST.KITTS - UNDOUBTEDLY, for some calypsonians having just one song to perform at the calypso tents, in event that they do not make the ‘cut’ after eliminations, may seem a good idea because the second song might not be publicised for the original forum penned for.
However, such an action could and, in some cases, had proven to be a major disadvantage for a calypsonian who successfully make it through the eliminations but does not have the second one at hand, so to speak.
Well, during an interview, with well-known leader of the Proud Sounds Calypso Tent and veteran musician, Wingrove Hicks, he commended calypsonians for having a second song prepared.
“One of the things I’m impressed with the calypsonians this year, is that over the years calypsonians have waited until they have made the semi-finals to compose a second song and found themselves in great difficulties. However, many calypsonians this year have prepared both songs.”
He continued: “As a matter of fact, some have already been singing two songs in the tents so far. That is quite some improvement. I hope the others, who usually sit back uncertain and wait around, would take a page out of their book. As a matter of fact, if you are competing you should not be uncertain; you should always feel that you would excel.”
Asked about the calypsonians and songwriting, his response was: “The majority of calypsonians write their own song. However, there are many calypsonians who have song writers. Nothing at all wrong with songwriters! If you’re not a good songwriter, you get a writer and, even if you are a writer and you can get assistance, you seek assistance or seek advice. The best composers always seek second opinions.”
Attempts to reach tent leader of the Legends Kaiso Tent, popular calypsonian Sylvester ‘Socrates’ Hodge for a comment on whether or not participants of the tent had a second song prepared leading up to eliminations were unsuccessful.
Calypso tent eliminations will be held at De House Nitery on Saturday (Nov. 8) from 8:00 p.m. and then on Sunday (Nov. 9) at 17 Degrees, starting at 5:00 p.m.
Over 60 calypsonians from both tents are expected to compete.
