Calypso Vibrations

Calypsovibrations.com is Proud to Introduce 2012 Calypso Monarch of Trinidad & Tobago! Artiste Duane O'Connor!

 It has been said that Caribbean countries only appreciate their heroes when they have passed on, but when it comes to Calypso superstar, Duane Donald O’Connor, you can be sure this artist is realizing fame while he’s still very much alive.  On February 20, 2012, Duane O’Connor dethroned Karene Asche at the Calypso Monarch competition, securing the $1 million first prize, while remaining true to his social and political commentary art form. His two songs, “The Hunt is On” and “Long Live Calypso,” received the judge’s collective nod to take home the crown at the Dimanche Gras show. 

 As the Young King for 2012, Duane is a unique talent with a love of music heard through his dominant blend of artistic folk music that addresses political, social and Caribbean issues unique to his style.  What exactly makes Duane different?  Plainly stated, some calypso artists demonstrate a depth of music that comes from their roots.  Other calypso entertainers compose and perform music that comes from their soul.  Others still create intense inspiration when engaging a crowd.  With Calypso artist, Duane O’Connor, you can expect it all.  In fact, the newly crowned National Calypso Monarch has always felt a special affinity to calypso, even as far back as being a young child.  Today, leaving his audiences captivated by his melodic sounds, he combines calypso lyrics with mesmerizing rhythms that literally make the heart soar. 

 Making his entrance into the world on December 30^th (year) Duane was born in Port Spain, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, where he was drawn to Calypso music at an early age.  Even as a toddler, he showed signs of having an ear for music, which his parents noticed immediately.  Influenced by his father, who is a prolific composer/song writer and by his ever loving mother who supports him wherever and whenever he performs, Duane had the love and encouragement of family right from the very start. 

 Attending Newtown Boy’s Catholic School in Port of Spain he successfully participated in calypso competitions during grade school and later went on to the University of the West Indies.  Using his education and musical abilities, he masterfully combines his education and musical talent to send a message of unity, responsibility and harmony to the world.  His long lists of credits are many and in addition to being crowned the King at the Dimanche Gras show, he has also been a winner of Stars of Tomorrow as well as being a seven time Gold Awardee, five time Young Kings finalist, six time National Calypso semi finalist, three time unmatched Monarch finalist and winner of the Emancipation Monarch in 2003.

 Living in the Caribbean Island nation he aspired towards being in the national cultural show The Dimanche Gras Show of Trinidad and Tobago, which he achieved for the first time on a Sunday night in February 2007.  His tropical lyrics and powerful diction together with his melodic freshness helped him rise to the upper echelon at the Dimanche Gras show.   Performing his well-known hit song “Sartorial Elegance,” he also sang an idolized tribute to historic icon and four-time calypso monarch Kelvin “The Mighty Duke” Pope. In 2007, Duane ranked among the top six calypsonians in Trinibago, winning the north zone monarch competition later that year, an achievement he is very proud of winning.

 Close observation of his performances has been featured in a variety of media outlets throughout the nation including:

 Trinisoca.com, Calypso Vibrations http://www.calypsovibrations.com/ 

Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,155953.html

CTNT World, http://www.ctntworld.com/LocalArticles.aspx?id=38564,

Youtube -  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-ZpHndBidk

Trinidad Express - http://www.trinidadexpress.com/news/-OConnor-crowned-Calypso-Monarch--OConnor-crowned-Calypso-Monarch-BREAKING-NEWS----139674653.html

Guardian Media - http://www.guardian.co.tt/carnival/2012-02-20/duane-o%E2%80%99connor-captures-calypso-monarch-title

 Songs to his credit include Status, Forget the Branch, Stand T&T, Thriller and Jourvert Morning to name a few.   Duane has literally turned his inspired passion into a successful career. 

Today, Duane serves as a Police Officer, where he works with youth in the arts at a particular location in the Western part of the country. On February 24th, 2012 he was presented with an award by the police service for his achievement. Never in the history of the Trinidad & Tobago Police service has a police officer ever captured the prestigious Calypso Monarch title, a title Duane proudly wears.  As a testament to his talent, his debut CD titled “The Right Voice” was a clear demonstration as to how Duane O’Connor views his role as an entertainer and as a man. Bringing a fresh perspective to life, his CD helps us see the world with a little more passion, compassion and spirit, creating music that brings a better view of the world. 

Having met a number of challenging life experiences, Duane O’Connor is the first to admit that without the enormous support of his mother, his prosperity and success would not be possible, as she unfailingly is there to support and encourage his career.  Duane told C News, he plans on taking his million dollar first prize and building a home for his ailing mother.  He added that he is elated about the win and feels confident that calypso is in good hands.

 Consistently receiving an array of accolades from well-respected peers and music aficionados for his continued success in the industry, in addition to his musical talents, Duane has an intense desire to use his culinary skills.  You will often find him on a Sunday afternoon cooking up a storm for his relatives and close friends creating various local cultural dishes. 

Duane O’Connor is available for singing engagements and appearances and can be contacted by phone at (number) or by e-mail at (e-mail address.)  To learn more about Duane or to order his CD, you may go to (address) to make a purchase.