Calypso Music

Caribbean music · African rhythms · island culture · dancing

Born in Trinidad. Calypso music started in Trinidad and Tobago way back in the early to mid-1800s, created by Afro-Trinidadians who mixed their African heritage with island life.

African roots run deep. The music's rhythms come straight from West African music called Kaiso, brought over by people from West Africa and also influenced by French planters and their music from the French Antilles.

Spread across the islands. By the middle of the 1900s, calypso had traveled from Trinidad and Tobago to islands all throughout the Caribbean Antilles, making the whole region groove to its beat.

Stories set to beat. Calypso musicians traditionally used their songs to tell stories and comments about everyday life, celebrations, and what was happening in their communities.

Made for dancing. With its catchy, upbeat rhythms and energetic melodies, calypso music gets people moving and is perfect for festivals and celebrations all around the Caribbean.