Leeward Islands Calypso King De Voice (formerly known as De Bear)
1. How did you come up with your very unique calypso name?
My name Bear was given to me by a cousin when I was about 5 years old. I just add “De” for stage. The new name I carry De Voice comes from a radio program in Montserrat called what’s on your mind. I call my self the voice of the people.
2. What is your real name?
My real name is Keithroy Morson
3. Where were you born?
Born in Montserrat
4. How were you introduced to calypso?
From a young age singing in a string band.
4 (b) Who inspired you in the art form?
Short Shirt. Swallow, Obstinate. Reality from Montserrat. Hero from Montserrat. David Rudder. Singing Sandra. Cro Cro. So many. INTERVIEW CONTINUES BELOW
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5. Do you play any instruments or does anyone in your family?
My uncle plays the guitar. I have cousins who play keyboard and trombone. I play the guitar, masquerade drums, fife, ukulele and a little bit of keyboard.
6. When did you first enter the calypso arena?
At age 15 in the Junior Calypso.
6 b) How many years have you been singing calypso?
From 1985 in the Juniors and from 1987 in the Senior Competition in Montserrat.
7. List some of your achievements. How many times have you been crowned and what years did you win? Any other notable achievements you wish to share with the public, you can do so.
One (1) junior crown in Montserrat in 1985. Six (6) senior crowns in Montserrat: 1992, 1993, 2014, 2020, 2021, 2022. Six (6) crowns in Antigua: 2007, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019. One (1) Independence crown in Antigua: 2002. Four (4) Leeward Islands crowns: 2007, 2012, 2015, 2023.
(Dear Reader please note for the first 3 Leeward Islands crowns he represented Antigua. However in 2023 he represented his native land Montserrat)
8. What countries have you performed in?
I’ve been all over: St Kitts, Nevis, St Martin, Tortola, Grenada, America, England and Anguilla etc. I went to America this year for a Life Time Award from a Montserrat progressive society.
9. Is there any difference with how a calypso competition or the calypso arena was years ago compared to now? Feel free to list anything you wish.
The difference is that there are hardly any calypsonians left. There are more singers . Most of them can’t pen a song. They just sing for the money. They only sing against the government who they don’t support. Mercenaries.
10. Name two songs you sang for the Leeward Islands Competition prior to 2023. Also give us a summary of the songs.
I sang “Ray of Hope”, and “Can’t Stop De Bear”. “Ray of Hope” is really about not giving up even in your darkest hour. If there’s a glimpse of chance take it. “Can’t Stop De Bear” is bragging rights. It’s a battle song sending a challenge. I think we lack that in the competition[compared] to those days. People come out to see war between the calypsonians. The songs are too subtle.
View “Ray of Hope” performance below or click here:
11. What were the songs in 2023?
Songs for 2023 were “Hard Lekka Diamond” and “Don’t Wake De Bear”.
12) What advice do you have for young people who see you as a role model?
I wish not to be a role model for the world. Only for my children. But my advise to the young ones is to seek knowledge from the older people in what ever you want to achieve. Especially the arts. Build on what they left you.
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Other articles featuring citizens of Montserrat:
Jim Allen-A Superb Caribbean Batsman