By Sue-Ann Wayow
A LIVING legend and a cultural icon were just some of the phrases used to describe Clifton Ryan better known as ‘The Mighty Bomber’ and Kenwrick ‘Kenny J’ Joseph who passed away on Sunday.
Kenny J died of a Covid-19 related death.
In a press release by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts on Sunday, Tourism Minister Randall Mitchell said, “The Mighty Bomber was a composer extraordinaire, living legend and cultural icon who influenced many a younger calypsonian through his mentorship, willingness to compose for others and teach the calypso art form.”
Mitchell continued, “His sweet voice, witty parang soca renditions and his ability to captivate any audience, made Kenny J a performer par excellence and a cultural icon. He will be especially missed at Christmas time when he brought his signature flavour to the season, making the Christmas festival one that was unmistakably Trinidad and Tobago.”
The Mighty Bomber’s career started in 1940 at the age of 12 and in 1957 he entered Radio Trinidad’s Calypso Competition which he won. He also won the Calypso Monarch competition in 1964, represented Trinidad and Tobago in the Commonwealth Festival of the Arts in England in 1965 and in 2003 at the age of 75, he made the Calypso Monarch Finals.
The ministry also reflected on the recent passing of another cultural great Anthony “Tony” Williams who influenced the development of the steel pan who passed away late last year.
“As we look back on 2021, we cannot help but reflect on our entertainers and icons who we’ve lost over the past year. Their contributions to the creative sector have left an indelible mark on those who must continue to follow in their footsteps and hold on to their rich legacy,” the ministry stated.
