Aldwyn Roberts (18 April 1922 – 11 February 2000), better known by the stage name Lord Kitchener (or "Kitch"), was one of the most internationally famous calypsonians. Hailing from Arima, he was the son of a blacksmith, Stephen, and homemaker, Albertha.
Kitchener's success began after he moved to England in 1948. His fame continued throughout the 1950s, when calypso achieved international success. Later, though, he moved towards soca, a related style, and continued recording until his death. Kitchener's compositions were enormously popular as the chosen selections for steel bands to perform at the annual National Panorama competition during Trinidad Carnival.
During the 1960s and 70s he and the Mighty Sparrow proceeded to dominate the calypso competitions. Lord Kitchener won the road march competition ten times between 1965 and 1976, more times than any other calypsonian.
For 30 years, Kitchener ran his own calypso tent, Calypso Revue, by which he nurtured the talent of many calypsonians. Calypso Rose, David Rudder, Black Stalin and Denyse Plummer are among the many artists who got their start under Kitchener's tutelage.
Kitchener continued performing well into the 90s although he was forced to abdicate the stage in the year before his death, which was the result of a severe infection brought on by a blood disorder and organ failure.
Kitchener, who created highly-popular and sweet melodies, is honoured with a statue in Port of Spain. He is buried in the Santa Rosa Cemetery in Arima. A bust of the beloved entertainer is also on display on Hollis Avenue, Arima, not far from the Arima Stadium.
Lord Kitchener - Sugar Bum Bum
