Less than three weeks after celebrating his 77th birthday, Winston Bailey, “The Mighty Shadow” has died. But he is being remembered as a cultural icon who changed the calypso landscape through his “musical genius”.

Bailey grew up in Les Coteaux in Tobago, and began his love affair with the art form at a young age. Chief Secretary Kelvin Charles said the bard will be remembered for his contributions.

“The musical genius of the ‘Mighty Shadow’ will certainly be missed,” Charles said. “He was loved by many and his music appealed to a wide cross section of society, spanning classes and ages.  Trinidad and Tobago has lost another cultural icon who championed a successful career in the performing arts.”

Charles extended condolences to the family and loved ones of the late, great calypsonian, who made history in capturing the Road March, Calypso Monarch and International Soca Monarch titles. He spawned famous hits like “Bassman”, “I come out to play”, “Scratch Meh Back” and “Stranger”.

The Chief Secretary encouraged the country to remember Shadow’s family and loved ones in prayer even as the country is dealing with the aftermath of severe flooding in Trinidad.

Charles said this is a time for the nation to demonstrate unrestrained love, unity and camaraderie to overcome these circumstances.