Remembering
Dr. Roy Cape
Introduction
Roy Francis Cape—a name that
resonates across the Caribbean, known
for more than five decades of devotion
to calypso, soca, and the musicians who
shape Trinidad and Tobago’s rich
cultural landscape. His influence on the
region’s music scene is immeasurable.
Leading the iconic Roy Cape All Stars,
Cape didn’t just make music; he crafted
a legacy of excellence, professionalism,
and commitment to uplifting his fellow
musicians.
Early Life
Roy Francis Cape born in April 1942
to a Trinidadian mother (of Grenadian
heritage) and a white American
father who came to Trinidad on
business and left shortly after he was
born. He grew up in poverty and lived
with some neighbors. They sent him to
the Sacred Heart Boys' School. Cape
entered the Belmont Orphanage in
1953, where he received his first
musical education.
Early Life
His love for music grew steadily, as
did his determination to rise above his
circumstances. From playing the
steelpan, he moved on to master the
clarinet, and eventually, the alto
saxophone became his instrument of
choice—one that would accompany
him through an illustrious career.
Career
In the 1960s, Cape embarked on his
professional journey, performing with the
likes of Sir Frankie Francis, Clarence
Curvan Orchestra, and the Sparrow’s
Troubadors. These bands laid the
foundation for his future endeavors, but it
was his vision for a group that could
transcend boundaries that led to the
formation of the Roy Cape All Stars, a
band that would revolutionize the calypso
and soca sound.
Career
By the 1970s, Cape’s career took him to
New York, where he played a mix of
American and Caribbean music, blending
cultural influences to create a unique
sound. His 7 year stint in the U.S. allowed
him to collaborate with notable musicians,
reforming the Ron Berridge Orchestra and
playing alongside stars like Hugh Hendricks
and Neville Oxley. But while New York
offered new opportunities, Cape’s heart
remained in Trinidad.
In 1977, he returned home to answer the
call of calypso, leading to the birth of the
Roy Cape All Stars—a band that would
soon become a global ambassador for
Caribbean music.
Mentor &
Advocate
To his bandmates and peers, Roy Cape
was more than a leader—he was a mentor,
affectionately known as “Pappy.” For over
five decades, Cape not only perfected his
music but also fought for the rights and
welfare of musicians.
His advocacy for fair wages and
improved working conditions is legendary,
ensuring that his band members were well
compensated for their talents and
dedication.
Philanthropy
In 2014, Cape faced a personal battle—he
was diagnosed with cancer, a challenge
that led him to step away from the stage
and focus on his health. However, even in
the face of adversity, Cape’s commitment
to making a difference never faltered. In
2016, he founded the Roy Cape
Foundation, an organization aimed at
providing music education to at-risk
communities in Trinidad and Tobago.
Through the foundation, Cape sought to
use music as a tool for healing, combating
crime, and offering hope to young people.
For Cape, music was not just a career—it
was a way of life, a means to uplift, heal,
and inspire.
Awards
In 2004, Cape was the recipient of the
Trinidad and Tobago National Award, the
Hummingbird Medal (Gold).
In 2011, he received an honorary Doctor of
Letters (DLitt) degree from the University of
the West Indies in recognition of his
contributions to Caribbean music. He
published his memoir, Roy Cape: A Life on
the Calypso and Soca Bandstand, in 2014,
offering readers a glimpse into his
extraordinary life and career.
In 2019, Cape was awarded the keys to the
city of Port of Spain—a fitting tribute to a
man who had given so much to his country
and its culture.
2004
2011
2019
Death & Legacy
On September 5, 2024, Roy Francis Cape
passed away at the age of 82, leaving
behind an indelible legacy in Caribbean
music. His career as a musician, bandleader,
and mentor spanned over five decades, filled
with countless achievements.
Cape’s legacy lives on, not only in the music
he created but in the countless lives he
touched through his mentorship, advocacy,
and generosity. His lifelong commitment to
promoting calypso and soca ensured that
Trinbago’s music would continue to thrive for
generations to come. Dr. Roy Cape’s
contributions to the world of music will never
be forgotten, and his story will continue to
inspire future generations of musicians and
cultural ambassadors.
References
Roy Cape. (2024, September 7). Wikipedia, the free
encyclopedia. Retrieved September 13, 2024, from
[Link]
The life and legacy of Dr. Roy Francis cape: Musical
legend. (2024, September 6). Life in Trinidad and
Tobago. [Link]
and-legacy-of-dr-roy-francis-cape-musical-legend/
Veteran musician Roy cape dies. (2024, September
6). Jamaica Observer.
[Link]
eran-musician-roy-cape-dies/
