Brigo — great story-teller, show-stealer

It’s no use giving them awards posthumously. We need to show them more love and financial appreciation when they are alive.

Many of our full-time calypsonians have worked for crumbs, while promoters smile their way to the bank. Promoters should help their former servants in their difficult years.

Over the past few months, calypso has suffered some body blows with the deaths of King Austin and Lord Smiley. Now calypso lovers have to mourn the death of the inimitable composer and entertainer Brigo (Samuel Abraham). That man was a blast.

A great story-teller.

I have seen him perform on many occasions and he was a show-stealer. Brigo gave value for money. Like the late great Lord Popo, King Creole and Allrounder, Brigo brought theatre to calypso, through dress, dance and facial antics; a dying art. Remember his portrayal of Barnabas Collins which had audiences in stitches? One Sunday morning he raised the roof of the Deluxe cinema, Port-of-Spain, with a memorable performance of the song Limbo Break and his favourite calypso, Doh Beat Mama Popo, a story based on his childhood. Brigo was in his element when spurred on by audiences. He wasn’t only a calypsonian, he was a stress tonic.

Once he related the story of meeting a white woman who told him he was “the most handsome man she ever saw.” Two of his major concerns about this society were the lack of manners and respect displayed by the youths towards the elderly.

In his calypso wisdom, we are walking in the dark. So true.

KEITH ANDERSON via emai