It has been said that Caribbean countries only appreciate their heroes when they have passed on, but when it comes to Calypso superstar, Duane Donald O'Connor, that isn't the case. This amazing artist is realizing huge fame while he's still very much alive, demonstrated on February 20, 2012, when Duane O'Connor dethroned Karene Asche at the Calypso Monarch competition, securing the $1 million first prize. Remaining true to his social and political commentary art form, his two songs, "The Hunt is On" and "Long Live Calypso," received the judge's collective nod to take home the crown at the Dimanche Gras show.
As the Young King for 2012, Duane is a unique talent with a love of music heard through his dominant blend of artistic folk music that addresses political, social and Caribbean issues distinctive to his style. Leaving his audiences captivated by his melodic sounds, Duane combines calypso lyrics with mesmerizing rhythms that literally make the heart soar. Born in Port Spain, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, he was drawn to Calypso music at an early age, when even as a toddler, he showed signs of having an ear for music, which his parents noticed immediately. Influenced by his father, who is a prolific composer/song writer and by his mother who supports him wherever and whenever he performs, Duane had the love and encouragement of family right from the very start.
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Duane successfully participated in calypso competitions throughout grade school and later went on to the University of the West Indies. Using his education and musical abilities, he masterfully combined his education and musical talent to send a message of unity, responsibility and harmony to the world. His long lists of credits are many and in addition to being crowned the King at the Dimanche Gras show, he has also been a winner of Stars of Tomorrow as well as being a seven time Gold Awardee, five time Young Kings finalist, five time National Calypso semi finalist, three time unmatched Monarch finalist and winner of the Emancipation Monarch in 2003. Songs to his credit include Status, Forget the Branch, Stand T&T, Thriller and Jourvert Morning to name a few. Duane has literally turned his inspired passion into a successful career. In combination with his musical career, Duane also serves as a Police Officer, where he works with youth in the Arts throughout the Western part of the country. Never in the history of the Trinidad & Tobago Police department has a police officer ever captured the prestigious Calypso Monarch title, a title Duane proudly wears.
This week in recognition of his huge win, many articles appeared in publications including Calypso Vibrations, Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, CTNT World, Youtube, Trinidad Express, Guardian Media and Twitter. The generously proportioned 6 feet 7 inch entertainer is a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Junior Calypso organization committee where he stands on a solid foundation as he performs to keep calypso alive. He also serves as a Master of Ceremonies at some of the organization's important programs and often hosts the annual Kiddies Carnival Calypso show being held in the capital city. As a testament to his talent, his debut CD titled "The Right Voice" was a clear demonstration as to how Duane O'Connor views his role as an entertainer and as a man.
To learn more about Duane you may visit him at www.Calypsovibrations.com or e-mail him at dbernard2010@att.net or thriller4u@gmail.com
Telephone 323-845-5354
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