Mourners Honour Brother Valentino at Port of Spain Funeral

Brother Valentino, Anthony Emrold Phillip, was honoured at his funeral in Port of Spain as a cultural elder whose calypso gave voice to black consciousness, equality and social justice in Trinidad and Tobago. TUCO and his family said his songs shaped national identity, while the Culture Ministry said it is working on financial support for ageing artistes.

Family, friends and fellow calypsonians gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to farewell Brother Valentino, the socially conscious Trinidad and Tobago singer born Anthony Emrold Phillip. Known as “The People’s Calypsonian,” he used calypso to challenge injustice and uplift ordinary people, leaving behind a legacy marked by major national and cultural honours.

The deaths of Brother Valentino and the Mighty Sparrow have renewed calls for stronger support for calypsonians in Trinidad and Tobago. Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin says the Government and TUCO are discussing insurance, life funds and other measures to help artistes secure their later years and preserve their legacy.