Official Launch of Dr. Rudolph Ottley’s Book, The Evolution of Sokah: The Lord Shorty Testimony

Castries, Saint Lucia – May 17, 2025 – The Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC), in collaboration with renowned cultural researcher and author Dr. Rudolph Ottley, proudly hosted the official launch of his latest publication, The Evolution of Sokah: The Lord Shorty Testimony. The event, held in the FRC’s Conference Room at Barnard Hill, Castries, marked a significant cultural moment—bringing together scholars and enthusiasts for a compelling presentation and discussion on the life and legacy of the legendary Garfield Blackman, better known as Lord Shorty.

This groundbreaking work offers an in-depth exploration of Sokah—a dynamic fusion of Calypso and Indian rhythms—and presents an intimate, firsthand account of its evolution through Lord Shorty’s own reflections, triumphs, and struggles. The Evolution of Sokah not only chronicles the birth of a genre but also captures a pivotal moment in Caribbean musical and cultural history.

Dr. Rudolph Ottley, who holds a Ph.D. in Cultural Studies, is a cultural activist, archivist, and former Assistant Professor at the University of Trinidad and Tobago. He is also the Principal Consultant of Human Resource Specialists (HRS) Limited. With decades of experience in education, youth development, and cultural research, Dr. Ottley has become a leading voice in the preservation and promotion of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage. He has presented extensively throughout the Caribbean and North America and continues to contribute to the shaping of discourse around Caribbean music and identity.

In addition to his academic and professional credentials, Dr. Ottley has authored fourteen influential titles, including Ambataila Women: The Untold Story of Women in Calypso and Calypso Fiesta @ Skinner Park. With his background as a certified Human Resource Specialist, Life Skills Coach, and vocational guidance expert, he brings a multidisciplinary approach to this deeply personal and scholarly work.

At the launch, Dr. Ottley shared his extensive knowledge of Calypso and Sokah music, with a special emphasis on the vital, yet often underrepresented, role played by women in sustaining the Calypso artform during both colonial and post-colonial periods in Trinidad and Tobago. This powerful narrative set the stage for the unveiling of his latest publication.

Dr. Ottley then provided an in-depth look into the life and work of the main subject of his publication, Lord Shorty, who later became known as Ras Shorty I. His presentation included an examination of the philosophical underpinnings that guided the evolution of Lord Shorty’s music from traditional Calypso to the creation of Sokah—while acknowledging that this musical claim has been, and in some circles continues to be, a source of controversy.

The evening continued with a vibrant Q&A session, where attendees engaged directly with Dr. Ottley, followed by a book signing session.

Book Availability:

The Evolution of Sokah: The Lord Shorty Testimony is now available for purchase at the Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre for EC$60.00.