In Swahili, the word Shikamoo means “I respect you.”
Tribute to the elders, those present and those who have passed on to the other realm, is a pillar which the Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago (ESCTT) holds dear.
On Friday 28th July, on the opening day of the Lidj Yasu Omowale Emancipation Village, the ESCTT will celebrate cultural elder – Lord Relator (Willard Harris),
The 1980 National Calypso Monarch, Relator won with “Food Prices” and “Take A Rest.” His tribute to cricketing legend, the former Indian skipper and batsman Sir Sunil Gavaskar is known among cricket fans. Gavaskar’s prowess against West Indian fast bowlers in a five-match Test series in 1971 was legendary.
Lord Relator is also revered for his treasure trove of calypso classics. In essence, he gives life to calypsos past, while giving his audiences a history lesson through the work done by bards before him.
An accomplished guitarist and player of many stringed instruments, Lord Relator is also known for his mastery of the art of extempo.
“We are pleased to pay tribute to Lord Relator as we continue to ensure honour is given to our cultural icons,” said Uzoma-Wadada. “In the past, we have paid tribute to Mighty Duke, David Rudder, Composer, Black Stalin, Ella Andall and Singing Sandra. So we continue the tradition of celebrating the cultural foundation.”