A private ceremony was organized in honour of the exceptional contribution to music by Geoffrey Phillips, better known as the Mighty Rebel, at the National Service Sport Complex two Saturdays ago.
This event was organized as a result of the calypso icon’s announcement of his retirement from competing in February, which shocked all of Guyana. It was coordinated by Natasha Corrica, Marci Forde and Stanley Phillips.
Among invitees were the Honourable Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Alfred King who delivered the main address in the stead of Dr Frank Anthony; Roshan Khan, Allan Fenty, Junior Horatio of Delta Airlines Guyana and others.
Rebel’s arrival was celebrated with petals being thrown at his feet and a trumpet heralding him in as a king. The two-hour ceremony was outstanding as the MC Basil Bradshaw took invitees through the programme.
It is believed by the organizers that persons should be given their flowers while they are alive and the Mighty Rebel had the opportunity to reciprocate the love poured out to him by family and friends.
For over three decades Rebel served and entertained throughout the length and breadth of Guyana through his calypso music.This legend made his name and gained popularity locally, regionally and internationally. He always intrigued his fans with his amusing costumes and presentations, leaving them wanting more every time he left the stage. He stands tall not in height but certainly in his career as the king of calypso, the only calypsonian to have won the crown six times.
Rebel’s winning songs include his 1988 hit “Secondhand”, 1993 – “Desi You Wrong”, 1997- “Political Lie”, 2001- “Ask de President”, 2007- “Is We Put You Deh” and 2010- “All Awee Know De Man”.
The organizer extended special thanks to the Office of the President (President Bharrat Jagdeo), Office of the Prime Minister, Minister Frank Anthony and the Ministry of Culture, Ansa Mcal, the Loft Night Club, Clairan’s Boutique, Nicky’s Fish Shop and all others who sponsored the event.
