HADCO Phase II Pan Groove Remembers Black Stalin

On Wednesday December 28, 2022 Dr. Len “Boogsie” Sharpe and HADCO Phase II Pan Groove joined with the international community to pay tribute to one of the region’s most iconic calypsonians, Dr. Leroy Calliste, who was better known as, “Black Stalin.” Born Leroy Calliste on September 24, 1941, Black Stalin had been heralded throughout his career as a “true Caribbean Man,” and dubbed by many as, “the People’s Calypsonian,” because of the use of his lyrics as a powerful form of social commentary on the challenges that were faced by the West Indian Diaspora in the pre and post-colonial Caribbean era.

Black Stalin was also a five-time Calypso Monarch. He first won in 1979 with “Caribbean Man” and “Play One” followed with victories in 1985, 1987, 1991 and 1995. In 1999, he was also crowned, “Calypso King of the World.” In 2003, he achieved his first and only Panorama Championship to date alongside Phase II Pan Groove with their collaboration of “More Love.” The song was composed by Dr. Len “Boogsie” Sharpe while Black Stalin wrote the lyrics and vocalized the melody. Deepest condolences are extended to the Calliste family and Dr. Calliste’s colleagues and friends. May he rest in eternal peace.