Honoring Black Prince — WACK Radio x Kaiso Dial

We have lost another great one, and calypso music will not be the same after his passing. Trinidad & Tobago bids farewell to Kenroy “Black Prince” Smith, a calypsonian whose wit, humor, and sharp storytelling lit up the tent for decades. Rising through the calypso ranks from the 1950s, he crafted a style that was unmistakably his—blending comedy, social commentary, and the everyday realities of Caribbean life.

For this post, we celebrate some of his performances, as played in a recent tribute to the man by Mr. Kenny Phillips on WACK Visual Radio. We are confident that you will love the songs. You can look for his music after reading this, but first, check out TriniView, which has seven posts about him. Read and get to know the artist. Link here: Black Prince

This generation may not be aware of his songs, but Calypso connoisseurs know him for classics like "De Letter" and "Mrs. Black Prince Business." He earned the Most Humorous titles in 1993 and 1997, and his work stood proudly alongside icons like Zandolie and Lord Blakie on the Raw Kaiso CD. A true cultural witness, Black Prince captured the joys, ironies, and struggles of the people with charm and clarity.

As the spirit of the calypso tent waned and the voice of the Calypsonian was replaced by Soca dance music, he remained committed to the artform, performing and composing with the same passion that first brought him to the tent. His passing marks the end of an era, but his voice and spirit live on in the verses, the vinyl, and the memories of all who cherish a well-crafted calypso.

His death ends an era, but his legacy lives on in the verses, vinyl, and memories of those who know the power of a well-crafted calypso.

Rest in rhythm, Black Prince. Your crown was lyrical, and your legacy is royal.

Some of the artist's music—Discog:

• De Letter—One of his best-known comedic pieces; it was featured on Raw Kaiso.
• Fry Balls—Humorous social commentary in classic tent style.
• Calypso Horrors—A storytelling piece reflecting everyday struggles.
• Friday Evening—Apopular tent performance number.
• One Lifetime Ent Nuff—It's Reflective, witty commentary on life and relationships.
• The song "If" is well-known among collectors and is often performed in tent circuits.
• Hang 'Em High—A comedic narrative with sharp punchlines.
• Oya, Don't Cry No More Song—Emotional, socially aware composition.
• Mrs. Black Prince Business—A humorous look at domestic situations.

Production Notes/Music Credits:

Calypsonian: Kenroy Smith

Sobriquet: Black Prince

Music Tribute on WACK Visual Radio 90.1FM

Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.

Genre: Calypso 🎶

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Sokah2Soca · Black Prince Tribute WACK Radio 90.1FM x Sokah2Soca