Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago mourns the passing of Rapso pioneer Lutalo Masimba, Brother Resistance holder of the Hummingbird Medal Silver. Mr. Masimba received this National Award in 1992 in recognition of his work as a Rapso artiste and volunteer social worker.

Having been in attendance at the first ever Rapso Week concert held at City Hall, President Weekes can attest personally to the talent, drive and persistence of this people’s representative. Unafraid to speak his truth, Brother Resistance’s lyrics were often sharp indictments of Trinbagonian society, cutting portraits of the lives of the marginalised. He and his Network Riddum Band have left an indelible legacy in the cultural annals of Trinidad and Tobago.

“Our country is losing its cultural giants.” laments President Weekes. “Let us hope that our young artistes prove themselves capable of carrying on the vital work begun by these pioneers.”

Her Excellency extends sincere condolences to the family, friends and fans of Lutalo Masimba. May your soul rest in eternal peace Brother Resistance.