Minister with responsibility for Culture in the Prime Minister’s Office, John King, paid tribute to the late calypsonian Colin “Observer” Reid, who passed away at his home on Thursday evening.
King, also a former calypsonian, said Observer felt he had “a duty to speak vigorously and sincerely on the issues that impacted calypso, calypsonians and the fans who through their support kept it alive — even if it upset those who led”.
The full statement follows:
It is with sadness that I join Barbadians generally, and the calypso fraternity in particular, in paying tribute to Colin “Observer” Reid, who passed away at his home today.
Colin was, without doubt, one of the shareholders of the local calypso competition, with a loyal following that respected him for his prolific song-writing ability, his biting lyrics that made it clear to all that he was not afraid to challenge the status quo, and his singing ability that allowed him to challenge the best the artform produced any year.
For certain, his memory will live on in the hearts of Barbadians, including many who are not necessarily aficionados of calypso, through his hit “Cat Attack”, which immortalised the thoughts of many on the need for tough justice to fight crime and deviance in society.
The veteran calypsonian also demonstrated over the years that he owed the artform a duty to speak vigorously and sincerely on the issues that impacted calypso, calypsonians and the fans who through their support kept it alive — even if it upset those who led.
Colin — his lyrics, his voice, his opinion — will be missed by us all.
On behalf of Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and the Government and people of Barbados, I extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of Colin “Observer” Reid.
May his soul rest in peace. (PR/SAT)
