Ska, Calypso and Reggae are all interrelated forms of music. One of the original giants of calypso music, who was also influential in the beginnings of reggae is Grenadian-Trinidadian singer Mighty Sparrow (Slinger Francisco). Mighty Sparrow has been performing professionally since the mid fifties. The songs which he sings often have a sense of humor. These songs aren't necessarily to everyone's taste but I usually enjoy them. One of his better known songs, which has been covered by a number of different people is The Big Bamboo, which is about the absolutely critical importance of the aforementioned renewable resource. This song has different lyrics depending on who is singing it. It may well be a traditional song where true authorship is lost to time. Some of the versions have different lyrics. The first version I heard was by the Mighty Sparrow but I've also heard good versions by other calypso singers like Duke of Iron, Mighty Panther, Wilmoth Houdini and Lord Creator. I heard a more recent version of this song by the musical group Ska Cubano, which as you might suspect combines a variety of Afro-Carribbean music, including but not limited to ska, reggae, calypso, salsa and soca. I like songs that on the surface appear to be about one thing but when you think about it are about something else entirely. Sometimes limits can inspire more inventive wordplay.
I asked my woman what should I do
To make her happy and to keep her true
All she said that I want from you Is a little little piece of the big bamboo
Chorus:
The big bamboo it grows good and strong
The big bamboo grows good and long
The big bamboo stand up straight and tall
And the big bamboo pleases one and all
I gave my girl a sugar cane
Sweets for my sweet I did explain
She gave it back with my surprise
She like the flavor but not the size
(Chorus)
I gave my girl a coconut
She said she like it, its o.k. but
The only thing that worries me
What good is the nut without the tree?
(Chorus)
I met a Chinaman named Dick Van Go
He got married went to Mexico
His wife divorce him pretty quick
She like bamboo but not chopstick
(Chorus)
The big, big bamboo, bamboo Ay yai yai Money in the land of the Yankee dollar, eh
