Resilience, revolution and love. These are the qualities that best capture the spirit of the late music icon Black Stalin (Dr Leroy Calliste), according to his grandson, calypsonian Kevan Calliste. “When I think of my grandfather, the images and words that come to mind are resilience, revolutionary spirit, and a deep love for the people of the Caribbean,” Calliste said via WhatsApp.
“His music was rich with messages of empowerment, unity, and justice and he often used his platform to uplift and educate through song.” Black Stalin passed away on December 28, 2022, at the age of 81, after suffering a debilitating stroke eight years earlier. Known as the people’s calypsonian, he delivered socio-political gems like “Caribbean Man” (1979), “Wait Dorothy Wait” (1986) and “We Can Make It” (1989).
In 1991, he cemented his legacy in T&T cultural history with the timeless national party anthem “Black man) Feeling to Party”. “In terms of wisdom his lyrics frequently encouraged standing tall against oppression and injustice, while promoting Caribbean pride and solidarity, Calliste noted. “I hear his voice and the power of his messages echoing in my mind, especially when making music and song writing.
” An all-star affair On October 4, Young Calliste will join a stellar cast of performers and musicians in paying tribute to his legendary grandfather at the “Echoes of the Black Stalin” classic concert, at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts (SAPA), San Fernando. Reigning National Calypso Monarch Machel Montano leads a royal cast of former monarchs including Winston “Gypsy” Peters (1997), Karene Asche (2011), Duane O’Connor (2012), Roderick “Chuck” Gordon (2014 and 2015), Terri Lyons (2020) and Ta’zyah O’Connor (2023). Multiple International Soca Monarch winners SuperBlue (Austin Lyons), Ronnie McInstosh and Iwer George are also on the bill, as are Bajan calypso stalwarts Mighty Gabby (Anthony Carter) and Ras Iley (Darcy Small), as well as Grenadian Ajamu (Edson Mitchell).
Rapso trio 3 Canal and calypso veterans Brother Valentino (Emrold Phillip), Baron (Timothy Watkins), Johhny King (Johnson King), Bally (Errol Ballantyne) and Ras Komanda (Stephen Pascal) are also set to appear in the Carlysle “Juiceman” Roberts and D All Starz production. Pan soloists Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, Duvone Stewart, Kegan Calliste and Shaquille “Flogo” Forbes will add their unique talents to the show. “This tribute show to honour him is deeply emotional and fulfilling for our family,” Calliste said.
“To see so many artistes line up to celebrate his legacy reflects how much he impacted both the music industry and the hearts of the people.” Calliste emphasised that the gathering of some of the region’s brightest talents to honour Stalin is a powerful acknowledgment of the strong values he upheld. It also gives the gifted extempo performer a unique opportunity to carry forward that rich legacy.
“For me it would likely be a profound experience. Not only does it allow me to honour my grandfather’s legacy, but I am now a part of the living legacy, and performing in his honour would be a beautiful continuation of his work,” he said. “My role in this tribute will carry a deeply personal weight.
Look forward to me delivering some of his classic songs with a fresh yet heartfelt perspective, embodying his spirit and message.” Impossible shoes to fill Calliste, who turns 25 today, has set aside the pressure to replicate Stalin’s achievement. Instead, he believes staying true to his own voice is the best way to build on his grandfather’s legacy.
“I focus on delivering to the people just as my grandfather did. I feel like that approach makes my performances so genuine and you can get that feel of ‘Stalin’ still,” he smirked. “Rather than trying to fill his shoes, I’m staying true to my own voice while carrying forward his legacy of connecting with the audience through his music.
” Stalin’s most powerful asset was his “quiet but magnetic force”, Calliste observed, adding that he “didn’t need to be flashy to captivate an audience.” “His presence alone commanded respect,” he noted. “His personality was humble and warm, but when it came to his music, he was fearless.
He wasn’t just a performer, he was a storyteller, a social commentator, and a voice for the people.” Calliste remains deeply inspired by his grandfather’s unique ability to reach people and positively influence thought and behaviour through music. “He had a way of telling stories that touched the soul while challenging social and political systems.
His songs were often uplifting yet critical, using sharp wit and powerful lyrics to inspire change,” he said. “He made you think, feel, and reflect on both the Caribbean and the world at large. His music was not just for entertainment, it was a call to action, wrapped in the rhythms and melodies of calypso that are still very relevant today in society.
” And how he will personally remember Black Stalin? “I remember him as an amazing, loving, and caring person, someone who was deeply connected to the people around him,” he said. “He had that natural warmth and charm, making him a true people person. His presence left a lasting impression, especially in Fyzabad, where he was almost larger than life.
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