Port of Spain, Trinidad – Former calypsonian and gospel singer Denyse Plummer died on Sunday following a battle with cancer.
According to Guardian media, her death was confirmed by a close family member and also on her Facebook page.
- Advertisement -
“It is with a heavy heart we confirm the passing of our beloved queen, Denyse Plummer-Boocock. Denyse was a wonderful mother, grandmother, wife, friend and an exemplary example to the younger generations. She will be missed by many, especially her family. She will live on through her music, literature and the beautiful impressions she left on everyone she met.
We love you Denyse, thanks for the magic you brought to this world.”
Ainsley King, president of The Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organization (TUCO) also announced her passing.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of legendary calypso and gospel artiste, Denyse Plummer. On behalf of the executive and members of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organization (TUCO), and as its president, Ainsley King, we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable talent and spirit.”
“Her journey from singing in the Holy Name Convent choirs to ascending to the pinnacle of the calypso world is an inspiring testament to her dedication and perseverance,” King continued. “She shattered barriers and paved the way for female calypsonians, demonstrating that the power of one’s voice transcends gender and background.
Plummer made her debut in 1986 at Calypso Fiesta, the National Calypso Monarch semi-finals, but on that day, the audience who disapproved of the mixed race singer threw oranges and rolls of toilet paper at her, but instead, it was reported that she picked up the toilet paper and waved it at the audience.
Plummer was later enlisted by Phase II Pan Groove steelband arranger Len “Boogsie” Sharpe and started making a name for herself as a calypsonian. In 1988, with yet another Len “Boogsie” Sharpe pan tune, “Woman Is Boss” she arrived at the National Calypso Monarch finals and also won the Calypso Queen crown.
She then continued to hold onto the Calypso Queen crown a total of six times and came in second place three times.
In 2002 and 2003, she released “Fire” and “Tempo” respectively. In 2001, the Calypso Monarch title was won with the songs “Heroes” and “Nah leaving”.
Plummer later left the genre of calypso and moved on to gospel.
She was 69 years old at the time of her death. (CMC)
