Image via YouTube music video © Kurt Allen.
Oh lordy, I want to fall, and as you know, pressure does bust pipe! Now for all those who are surely going to get upset with this Calypso, here is what we have to say to you: 'Grow up!' Kurt Allen, a talented Calypsonian, has demonstrated the power of his pen to bring the truth to life. While politics will always have its sycophants, those who know and understand the truth and refuse to bow down or cowtail to those who love to 'kiss ass' will understand the power of this calypso.
I have a strong distaste for politicians, particularly when a petroleum engineer holds the position of Prime Minister and your industry suffers significant losses. There is so much blame to go around that both political entities, including the current opposition leader, are just as guilty. One can only hope for a better day. So no matter how hard you run, Dr. Rowley, the griot has exposed you, and neither you nor those who 'vote against their interests' can save you.
From "The Last Bardjohn of Calypso":
In calypso tradition, the political landscape has always been a prime subject for commentary and critique. Each PM, no matter their stance or achievements, has been the subject of the calypsonian's sharp tongue and fearless lyrics. The composition “Your Turn Now” was written in 2015 after the general elections in Trinidad and Tobago, with the knowledge that no leader, however influential, is immune to the calypsonian’s call for accountability.
As a calypsonian, I have always felt a deep responsibility to speak the people’s truth, and my decision to perform this piece was not one taken lightly. There is an innate sense that this particular PM, unlike all those before him, has somehow escaped the critique that has shaped the nation's understanding of political leaders.
This piece isn’t an emotional outburst or an attack on character—it’s a lyrical mirror, reflecting the promises, the missed opportunities, and the legacy that stands under the weight of scrutiny. It’s a wake-up call, a direct message not only to the Prime Minister but to all who hold power. "Your Turn Now" stands as one of the most daring calypsos I have ever composed, a reminder that the voice of the people cannot be ignored.
With this song, I, Kurt Allen—The Last Bardjohn of Calypso—step up to the role that calypsonians have carried for generations: the fearless watchdogs of the people, unafraid to confront power and to call it out when it drifts from its duty. This is not merely a critique of one individual, but a reinforcement of Calypso’s tradition of holding leaders to account, no matter which side of the political divide they stand on.
So, Dr. Row, “Your Turn Now isn’t just a song; it’s a message, a call to action, and a reminder of the promise Calypso has made to this nation—to always, without fear, call a spade a spade.
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Production Notes/Music Credits:
Song Title: Your Turn Now
Sung/Composed by: Kurt Allen—The Last Bardjohn of Calypso
Arranged/Produced by: Kenny Phillips
Background Vocals by: Judith Edwards and Kurt Allen
Executive Producer: C.E.F Ltd
Contact: kurtallen41@gmail.com
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Genre: Calypso
We present the music here for your listening pleasure and promotional purposes only, adhering to the "Fair Use" Musical Content Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976. Sokah2Soca/Soca Music Blog © 1990 by Santiwah is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-SA/4.0/.
♫ Please click the music player button below to listen now (a small triangle in the music player/TV frame).
The Bardjohn himself/Earla's Verse