Calypso: A World Music   Part 1 | Part 2

Calypso for tourists

Maya Angelou	During the mid-twentieth century (1930s to 1960s), singers in diverse countries of the Atlantic world adapted the words and sound of calypso to appeal to new audiences. In the United States, for example, many singers performed calypso as a light-hearted party music, which fans associated with holidays in the Caribbean. Calypso of this type was very profitable for the music industry.
David Rudder	For the people of Trinidad, however, calypso was an important record of their history and an expression of their identity. Today, calypso remains an integral part of the culture of Trinidadians and other English-speaking Caribbean people, both in the Caribbean itself and in Caribbean communities in North America and Great Britain.

Explore this online exhibition of images and discover the story of the dissemination of calypso from Trinidad to the world.
Calypso in Trinidad	Learn how calypso developed in the island of Trinidad.
International Calypso	Learn how calypso became popular in many different countries.
Artists	Learn about the lives of famous calypso singers and other artists.
Songs	Learn about popular calypsos and related songs.
Calypso Today	Learn about calypso in the contemporary Caribbean.
Audio	Listen to calypsos.
Resources	Learn about calypso through books, CDs and other web sites.
Public Events	Learn about public conferences on calypso and the traveling exhibition.
	Next: Calypso in Trinidad

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