Duke will undoubtedly be remembered for his sterling contribution to the development of meaningful social commentary and soca tunes in the 1960’s, 1970’s and 1980’s. He was widely acknowledged as one of the best dressed calypsonians, and remains the only calypsonian in history to take the Calypso Monarch title four consecutive times (1968 to 1971).

He was also a prolific composer for the likes of Lord Nelson and others, and penned songs which focused on numerous areas / topics including “How many more must die” (social commentary which spoke out against the atrocities of apartheid) to the more Carnival roadmarch- friendly “Thunder”. His monarch tunes included “Black is Beautiful”, “Brotherhood of Man” and “Teach the children”.

We salute the Mighty Duke, a man who stands out as one of the true exponents of an art form that is arguably dying – calypso.