by Weldon Ryan

Looking up at the modern architecture of the Dr. Philips Performing art center in the heart of Orlando made me wonder what the evening would be like.  Orlando Carnival Downtown 2023 has so far done fantastic selecting this as a venue for it’s weekend Carnival ‘23 launch after J’ouvert. Another phenomenal job was selecting the Headliner of the evening. I was already impressed. The brightness of the sun was casting its rays steadfast on my forehead somewhat like a spotlight on an egg in a dark room. It was so intense I felt I was being cooked.  What a contrast from this morning of J’ouvert which I didn’t attend.  

So many years removed from my Caribbean homeland, my love for Calypso music and the songs that still resonate in my head still ring every time I daydream.  Calypso’s songs from Super Blue, The Mighty Sparrow and Calypso Rose puts me in harmony with present my state.  I daydream and think back to the tropical vegetation and the warmth of the Trinidad sun.

In contrast, my New York City experience brings memories of cold summer days and wishes of warm Caribbean nights. What a treat to be at Orlando Carnival listening to old school Calypso liming back in time.  The events of Saturday was so chill.  Everyone eased onto their clothe chairs with anticipation of the featured artist, David Michael Rudder.

David Rudder is a Calypsonian with the blood of Trinidad and Tobago running through his vein.  His musical genius extends for decades with songs pleasing our ears since the 80’s.  His love for his homeland and his people resonates through his lyrics with songs like ”Dus in De Air” and “The Hammer”, “Calypso Music”. One  particular song says it all. “Trini to De Bone” 2003 is tthat song.

I don’t know how he still has a positive outlook in life. He has such positive lyrics. Having suffered Polio, he has endured much though it seems his career was so smooth. I woudn’t know as I see from the outside. Polio would weaken the hearts of many.  But the strong fight the odds. Recently being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, his will to perform for Orlando Carnival Downtown 2023 Back in Time Lime, OCD’s version of Dimanche Gras, bestows love once more for the love of Calypso, TnT, the Caribbean community and Orlando.

It was epic and a special night!

Further information for feature events goto: https://orlandocarnivaldowntown.com/