(Barbados Nation) To Barbadians he was the “People’s King”, but to his daughter Zena Worrell, Colin Observer Reid, 65, was the greatest father in the world.
As news spread that the veteran calypsonian was found dead on Thursday afternoon at his Weston Terrace, Grazettes, St Michael home, members of the entertainment fraternity expressed condolences.
Worrell said her father was a great dad and also a talented tailor and cook.
When she and her father were last together on Saturday, he was in great spirits as he showed her his way of making cou cou.
So on Wednesday when he had not responded to her messages or answered when she visited, she had a strange feeling.
Statement From Minister John King On The Passing Of Colin “Observer” Reid
(Barbados Government Information Service) It is with sadness that I join Barbadians generally, and the calypso fraternity in particular, in paying tribute to Colin “Observer” Reid, who passed away at his home today.
Colin was, without doubt, one of the shareholders of the local calypso competition, with a loyal following that respected him for his prolific song-writing ability, his biting lyrics that made it clear to all that he was not afraid to challenge the status quo, and his singing ability that allowed him to challenge the best the artform produced any year.
For certain, his memory will live on in the hearts of Barbadians, including many who are not necessarily aficionados of calypso, through his hit “Cat Attack”, which immortalized the thoughts of many on the need for tough justice to fight crime and deviance in society.
The veteran calypsonian also demonstrated over the years that he owed the artform a duty to speak vigorously and sincerely on the issues that impacted calypso, calypsonians and the fans who through their support kept it alive — even if it upset those who led.
Colin — his lyrics, his voice, his opinion — will be missed by us all.
On behalf of Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and the Government and people of Barbados, I extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of Colin “Observer” Reid.
May his soul rest in peace.
