Top things to know
- Emrold Anthony Phillip, known as Brother Valentino, died at 85; his death was confirmed by TUCO.
- Born in Grenada in 1941, he moved to Trinidad at age five and began performing in the early 1960s.
- He was known for social commentary and songs including 'Stay Up Zimbabwe' and 'Life Is a Stage.'
- He received the Hummingbird Medal (Gold) in 2012 for contributions to culture.
Veteran calypsonian Emrold Anthony Phillip, widely known as Brother Valentino and celebrated as “The People’s Calypsonian,” has died at the age of 85. The Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) confirmed his death on Wednesday, stating that his “fearless voice and powerful social commentary gave expression to the struggles, hopes and experiences of generations.” The cause of death was not disclosed.
Born in Grenada on July 7, 1941, Phillip moved to Trinidad at age five and began performing in calypso tents in the early 1960s. His repertoire included “Stay Up Zimbabwe,” “Life Is a Stage,” “Barking Dogs” and “Dis Place Nice.” In 2012, he was awarded the Hummingbird Medal (Gold) for his contributions to culture. TUCO said his contribution to calypso “will remain an enduring part of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural legacy.”