AJ‘s Calypso Tent

More than 20 years of dedication to preserving the storytelling tradition of Calypso music has been recognised with a for the Grassroots Music Award, sponsored by Pride of Reading Awards CIC.

Jeff “De Admiral” Hinds founded AJ’s Calypso Tent in 2003, founded in 2003 to promote the art of calypso music, its origins, historical significance, and it's connection to carnivals worldwide.

Originally used as a way for enslaved people to share news and communicate important messages, calypso has remained a powerful platform for discussing social issues for generations.

“In Reading, we are blessed with calypsonians who continue write and perform their original social commentary songs, discussing gender-based violence, concerns about young people and the contribution of the Windrush Generation,” they added.

The nominator highlights The Admiral’s own success as a national Calypso Monarch, winning the title with his acclaimed Windrush Song.

AJ’s Calypso Tent has also played an important role in encouraging young performers, with children as young as eight years old taking part. One nine-year-old performer was interviewed by BBC Radio Berkshire after performing her song “Grown Up Games”, which explored the impact of adult conflict on children.

Despite ongoing funding challenges, the event continues to be organised annually by De Admiral, supported by a live band featuring local professional musicians, brass players, keyboardists, guitarists, drummers and backing singers.

“Calypso is far more than a rhythm,” said the nominator. “The music tells stories, preserves history and speaks to the nation through its social commentary.”