Black Stalin Has Died; Cause Of Death

Calypso figure Black Stalin has died.

The Trinidad artist suffered a stroke nine years ago, enduring almost a decade of poor health. News of the songwriter’s death broke earlier today; Black Stalin died at home in San Fernando, Trinidad, surrounded by his family. (via NewsDay)

Real name Leroy Calliste, Black Stalin embraced the calypso tradition from a young age, relishing the sound’s exhortation of the underdog. Frequently political in nature, he used calypso as a means to pick apart post-colonial mentalities, establishing an Afro-Caribbean viewpoint that was independent in nature.

Wise and funny, his work earned huge acclaim in the Caribbean and its connected diasporas; in all, Black Stalin won the Calypso Monarch competition on five occasions and the Calypso King of the World title in 1999.

A formidable wordsmith, he blended this lyrical ability with an emotive touch, enjoying success while remaining true to his roots. Born in San Fernando, he also passed away in the city; San Fernando mayor Junia Regrello – who had renamed a street in honour of the artist – mourned his death.

“We have lost one of our sons and an iconic calypsonian, a beacon of social issues. He will surely be missed,” Regrello said.

Chairman of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) South/Central Region Steve Pascall, aka Ras Kommanda, added: “Sincere condolences to the Calliste family and all his millions of fans around the globe as well as the calypso fraternity. May his spirit transition well into Zion.”

Black Stalin was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of the West Indies (UWI) in 2008.