Carlton Joseph, known professionally as Lord Blakie, was a seminal Trinidadian calypsonian whose dynamic performances and incisive lyrics left an indelible mark on the calypso genre. Born on November 3, 1932, in San Juan, Trinidad, he emerged from a community renowned for its "badjohn" culture, which profoundly influenced his music. Blakie's debut hit, "Steelband Clash," won the 1954 Road March title, and he repeated this success in 1962 with "Maria." His distinctive, infectious laugh became a signature element of his performances, endearing him to audiences. Throughout his career, Blakie was celebrated for his witty compositions and his fearless portrayal of societal themes, solidifying his legacy as a "Warlord" of calypso. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lord_Blakie?utm_source=openai))