Rewind to 1941. Emrold Anthony Phillip was born in Grenada. He moved to Trinidad as a youth and spent decades documenting the nation’s identity through calypso under the sobriquet Brother Valentino, beginning his professional career in 1966. With his Rastafarian locks and confident swagger, he remained unapologetically himself and used his platform to champion people of African descent, especially during the turbulent 1970 Black Power movement, speaking truth to power and giving voice to ordinary people.
In a Calypso Showcase interview, he once said, “I’m not responsible for what I do,” believing his talent was a gift from God. His pen became a weapon for social change, delivering kaisos such as Stay Up Zimbabwe, Barking Dogs and his well-loved classic Life Is A Stage.
On October 20, Brother Valentino—known as the People’s Calypsonian and revered as both poet and prophet—took his final bow at the age of 85. Coming on the heels of last month’s farewell to the Mighty Sparrow, the calypso fraternity and the wider nation face another heavy loss as they say goodbye to a true elder and one of the greats of his era.
Rikki Jai remembers a brother
Hours after hearing the news, industry veteran Rikki Jai (Samraj Jaimungal) told Guardian Media that even before he entered the arena, the name Valentino was spoken with reverence.
“He is one of the pillars,” he said. “To share the stage and the tents with him, that was a true education. What stood out about Valentino was his quiet, commanding presence. He did not need noise or fanfare to announce himself. He had a way of sailing into the tent—elegant, stylish, that unmistakable walk—and without a word, you knew a master had arrived.”
Rikki, who placed third in this year’s Calypso Monarch with ‘Doh Spoil Meh Name’, described Valentino not just as a fellow calypsonian, but as a true brother and gentleman of the art form.
“I am saddened to learn of his passing, but I will remember him always with love and deep respect.”
Chuck Gordon cherishes the memories
Former Calypso Monarch Chuck Gordon (Roderick Gordon) echoed similar sentiments, reacting with great sadness.
“Brother Valentino, or Papa as I called him, was more than a calypsonian; he was a cultural institution whose contribution to calypso and our national socio-political consciousness was immense,” he said, recalling his performance of Valentino’s classic ‘No Replacement’ at a 2018 tribute show.
“That moment touched me deeply. He always told me I was one of his favourite young calypsonians. We grew very close, and whenever I visited him or spoke with him, he was loving, encouraging, attuned and insightful. He was extremely wise, and I was often enthralled by his perspective on society and the human condition. I will forever cherish those memories and the bond we shared.”
Losing two industry giants so close together, Chuck noted, is a tremendous blow to the nation’s cultural heritage. Valentino and Sparrow represented different dimensions of calypso’s greatness: entertainment, social commentary and living history.
“Both embodied resistance and the yearning for change. Their passing reminds us of the urgency of preserving their legacies and ensuring younger generations continue the tradition they helped build.”
Kymani Hector-Kalloo calls for icons to get their flowers while alive
Valentino’s work crossed generations. Reigning Primary School Junior Soca Monarch Kymani Hector-Kalloo, known as Yung Kymani, remembers an unforgettable backstage moment at NAPA in July, when he rehearsed and sang the classic ‘Now Is The Time’ alongside the master.
“I’m really grateful that I got the opportunity to share a stage with him, even though it was just a brief interaction,” the Queen’s Royal College student said. “I’m happy I got to experience that memory with him before he passed. It’s something I’ll always remember and treasure.”
Soon to turn 13, he called for icons to be celebrated in their lifetimes.
“Just a few days ago, I watched the tribute to Sparrow and thought they did an excellent job. I was glad to see him receive the recognition he deserves. We need more initiatives like that for our veterans. They deserve their flowers while they’re still here to receive them.”
Terri Lyons speaks on an uneasy era
Two-time Calypso Monarch Terri Lyons reflected on the moment for those now carrying the mantle forward.
“It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I address the global cultural community during what has become an incredibly uneasy and sobering time for our nation,” she expressed. “The National Calypso Monarch represents the global body of our sacred art form, built entirely on the backs of the many soldiers, warriors and pioneers who laid the foundation for my generation to stand on. It feels as though we are losing our icons right before our very eyes, watching the living library of our heritage depart.”
