Trinidad and Tobago honors calypsonian Brother Valentino

Family, friends, and members of the calypso fraternity gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Port of Spain to celebrate the life and legacy of Anthony Emrold Phillip, known professionally as Brother Valentino.

Dubbed “The People’s Calypsonian,” Phillip died on October 21 at the age of 85 following a battle with cancer. His career was defined by socially conscious music that sought to give a voice to the marginalized and challenge injustice. While he never held the National Calypso Monarch crown, he received numerous national honors, including the Hummingbird Gold in 2012 and a Veteran’s Award.

During the funeral service, his daughters, Janelle and Gizelle Phillip, delivered eulogies praising his humble nature and his dedication to the downtrodden. He was also set to receive an honorary doctorate in November.