Kalabushana for Calypso King
Noel Brian Ranasinghe, who is well-known as the King of Calypso was recently honoured with a state honorary award ‘Kalabushana’ by the Cultural Ministry for his immense contribution to Sri Lankan music. “I am glad that finally the state has recognised what I have gifted to this country, a style of music that could not be found anywhere in the world,” says Noel with satisfaction.
Well-known as the man who introduced a trend of music called Calypso, a variety of Sinhala pop in the 1960s, Noel’s innovation has inspired Sri Lankan music and entertainment. Pioneering leader of the “La Ceylonians” Noel created all original Sri Lankan music which later became a foundation for Sinhala pop music.
Calypso a style never seen in any part of the world and caught on like wild fire and became popular in most tourist hotels.
Noel is also glad that his style with distinctive musical instruments and attire- Batik shirt and sarongs and reed hat is been followed by many and had generated much employment for musicians. Last September Noel was honoured at the State Music Award Ceremony for his contribution to the local music scene.