Grenadian Calypsonians ; Ajamu (Edson” King Ajamu” Mitchelle)
Ajamu (Edson "King Ajamu" Mitchelle
[edit | edit source]born Edson Mitchell, is a Grenadian calypsonian and reggae artist recognized as one of the leading figures in Grenada’s music history. Although he began his career in reggae before 1983, releasing albums such as Jah is My King and Living Water, he turned to calypso after a year in Trinidad and Tobago in 1983.[1] [2]
Ajamu gained early recognition from established Caribbean icons including The Mighty Sparrow and Calypso Rose. He went on to achieve significant competitive success, becoming a seven-time winner of the Grenada Calypso Monarch title (1987, 1988, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1995, and 2004). He has also won both the Soca Monarch and Road March competitions in Grenada.
In addition to performing, Ajamu is a multi-instrumentalist (guitar, keyboards, drums), a certified sound engineer, and a songwriter, arranger, and producer for calypsonians in both Grenada and Trinidad. His international recognition includes winning the 1997 Male Vocalist of the Year award at the Sunshine Awards in New York, where he surpassed notable regional artists such as David Rudder (Trinidad) and Edwin Yearwood (Barbados).
Ajamu’s contributions have been acknowledged internationally: Billboard Magazine has featured his work, and he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music.
Over the course of his career, Ajamu has released 19 albums and toured extensively. Marking his 25th year in calypso, he is regarded as a cultural ambassador for Grenada and the wider Caribbean. His body of work is noted for delivering positive and socially conscious messages, combined with an enduring reputation for humility and integrity.[3]