Last Updated on June 17, 2023, 7:10 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Steve Davidson Reid, known in the calypso circles as King Flamingo, has joined the Nevis Culturama festival as the official patron of the 49th edition of the Nevis Culturama. He was born on November 3rd, 1956, to Austin and Maudina Reid. He is the eldest of four siblings and grew up in Craddock Road.
During his formative years at the Charlestown Boys School, he honed his debating skills by engaging in lively discussions with his close friends. Little did he know that these skills would shape his future, allowing him to create his calypso masterpieces. Additionally, Steve’s exceptional aptitude for mathematics paved the way for a successful career as a skilled mason and contractor.
As he entered his late teens, Steve Davidson Reid was greatly influenced by calypsonians such as King Solomon and Harmony. He started refining his singing abilities by participating in various school and community events. During this period, the exceptional quality of his rich tenor voice began to be recognized. Two of Flamingo’s fierce calypso rivals, King Meeko and King Dis and Dat, affirm that his golden and powerful tenor voice remains unrivalled.
In 1972, when Steve Davidson Reid debuted in the Nevis Christmas Carnival Calypso competition, he had yet to adopt a calypso name. Impressed by his stylish and well-dressed manner, King Solomon bestowed upon him the moniker “Flamingo”. Steve Davidson Reid embraced the new identity, and Flamingo’s talent and dedication shone brightly in subsequent years, including the Nevis Christmas Carnival Calypso competition in 1974. Securing the third spot in both years, he cemented his status as a formidable contender.
Following the tragic sinking of the MV Christena in 1970, the atmosphere in Nevis was one of despair, and there was a growing sentiment of separation from the sister island, St. Kitts. Against this backdrop, the 1974 competition took on greater significance. Flamingo took to the stage and delivered a powerful performance of ‘March to Freedom’, which resonated deeply with the audience.
However, the politically charged nature of Flamingo’s performance gave rise to concerns of potential repercussions from the authorities and as a result, Steve Davidson Reid had to flee the scene swiftly. He vividly recalls running through a pasture and seeking refuge in a clammy cherry tree.
This pivotal moment in Flamingo’s calypso career showcased his talent and commitment to his art and highlighted the power of Calypso to express social and political commentary. Flamingo’s bravery in addressing such sensitive issues and his willingness to push boundaries left an indelible mark on the Nevisian community. They solidified his position as a revered calypsonian with a fearless spirit.
In 1975, King Flamingo aka Steve Davidson Reid debuted in the Culturama calypso competition and won the Culturama King title with outstanding renditions of “Caribbean Culture, Beauty & History” and “Culturama Morning.” He earned his second Culturama calypso crown in 2002 with ‘Fathers’ and ‘Law and Order.’ Throughout his journey, he garnered numerous ‘First Runner-Up’ awards, earning him the endearing nickname of the ‘First Runner-Up Guy.’
One of his most unforgettable first runner-up performances took place in 1978 when he delivered a powerful rendition of ‘Nevisian Pride’, a song still dear to many. This timeless classic, as well as the popular hit ‘Sherry Oh Baby,’ was featured in his highly acclaimed album, ‘Nice and Jumpy’.
Flamingo sincerely hopes that his cherished compositions that celebrate Nevis’ rich culture and heritage will be embraced more deeply in his beloved hometown. This place has played an integral role in shaping his artistic journey.
Flamingo aka Steve Davidson Reid has captivated audiences far and wide with his incredible vocal talent, earning him recognition and admiration across the Caribbean. He had the honour of gracing the stage of the famous Trinidad Maljo Calypso Tent. This prestigious platform allowed him to share the spotlight with other legendary calypsonians such as King Short Shirt, Lord Nelson, Mighty Pat, Sparrow, Blakey and Power.
It was a testament to his immense talent and reputation within the Calypso fraternity.
In addition to his successful performances, he has dedicated himself to mentoring junior calypsonians, including his son Steve Jr., who won the Junior Calypso title four consecutive times. As a mentor, he holds high vocal standards for those seeking his guidance. He constantly emphasizes that individuals who cannot sing in tune or have pitch problems should not come to him for assistance.
In an interview with the Research and Documentation Unit of the Nevis Cultural Development Foundation, Steve Davidson Reid gave these insights: “Calypso is we ting, you know, black people ting, but we have strayed from it. Look at what Kinna music is taking over lately. I still go to the calypso shows. Any festival you go to in the Caribbean, the calypso show is still the number one!”
Flamingo has now retired and resides on Craddock Road with his wife, Nola and their two children, Steve Jr. and Tamu.
On behalf of the Nevis Island Administration, the Ministry of Culture, the Nevis Cultural Development Foundation and the Nevis Culturama Committee proudly salute Steve Davidson Reid, aka King Flamingo, for his years of dedication to the calypso art form on Nevis. We cherish and value his efforts to promote and preserve Nevis’ rich cultural legacy.
Have a fun-filled Culturama 49!
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
