Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1924

 

Lord Burgess, also known as Irving Burgie, was a renowned American composer and songwriter who is best known for his contributions to the world of calypso music. Born on July 28, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York, Burgess grew up in a household that was filled with music. His mother was a classically trained pianist, and his father was a singer and guitarist who performed in local clubs and bars. Burgess began his musical journey at a young age, learning to play the piano and guitar from his parents. He was also exposed to a wide range of musical genres, including jazz, blues, and classical music. As a teenager, Burgess became interested in calypso music, a genre that originated in Trinidad and Tobago and was characterized by its upbeat rhythms and social commentary. In 1944, Burgess enlisted in the US Army and served in Europe during World War II. During his time in the military, he continued to play music and even formed a band with some of his fellow soldiers. After the war, Burgess returned to New York and began performing in local clubs and bars. In the early 1950s, Burgess traveled to the Caribbean, where he was introduced to the world of calypso music. He was immediately captivated by the genre and began writing his own calypso songs. In 1956, Burgess had his first major breakthrough when Harry Belafonte recorded his song "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)." The song became a massive hit and helped to popularize calypso music in the United States. Over the next few years, Burgess continued to write songs for Belafonte and other artists, including "Jamaica Farewell," "Island in the Sun," and "Mary's Boy Child." His songs were characterized by their catchy melodies and socially conscious lyrics, which often addressed issues such as poverty, racism, and inequality. In addition to his work as a songwriter, Burgess also composed music for films and television shows. He wrote the score for the 1957 film Island in the Sun, which starred Harry Belafonte and Joan Fontaine. He also composed music for the television series The Adventures of Robin Hood and The Dick Van Dyke Show. Throughout his career, Burgess remained committed to promoting the music and culture of the Caribbean. He was a frequent visitor to the region and worked closely with local musicians and artists. In 1998, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to music. Burgess continued to write and perform music well into his later years. He released several albums, including "The Father of Modern Calypso" and "Jump Up Calypso," and performed at concerts and festivals around the world. He passed away on November 29, 2019, at the age of 95. In conclusion, Lord Burgess was a pioneering composer and songwriter who helped to popularize calypso music in the United States. His catchy melodies and socially conscious lyrics continue to inspire musicians and fans around the world. His contributions to the world of music will be remembered for generations to come.

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