Former Calypso Monarch Denyse Plummer has died. She is said to have died at home with her family. Plummer had been battling cancer for some time and receiving treatment.
She started her career as a successful carabet singer and transitioned successfully to Calypso. Plummer made her debut in 1986 at Skinner Park, where she found herself at the end of an unappreciative audience who were not cheering her on. Plummer was enlisted by Phase Two pan Groove and steelband arranger Len Boogsie Sharpe in 1986 to sing his band’s national Panorama entry. It was then that Plummer 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 finals and also won the Calypso Queen crown. Since then, she has taken the Calypso Queen crown a total of six times and has won 2nd place Crown three times.
In a statement on her Facebook page last evening, Plummer’s family confirmed her passing:, “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.”
Tribute was also paid in a statement yesterday, Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) president Ainsley King extended condolences to Plummer’s family, friends and those who were touched by her remarkable talent and spirit.
“Denyse Plummer’s legacy is etched in the annals of Trinidad and Tobago’s musical heritage. 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. She shattered barriers and paved the way for female calypsonians, demonstrating that the power of one’s voice transcends gender and background,” King said.
Plummer is the fifth female calypsonian to win the Young Kings and National Calypso Queens competition and made it to the finals in 1983, 1988, 1992, 1994, and 2001, winning the title in 2001. She is also known for the very popular ‘Nah Leaving.’ She leaves to mourn two sons and husband Patrick Boocock.