SINGING Francine, a calypso and parang star, has died.
Edwards, 79, was known for many hit Christmas songs like “Hooray, Hurrah”, “Parang Parang”, “I adore Christmas”, “Christmas is Love”, “Caribbean Christmas” and “Ay Ay Maria” as well as several powerful commentary such “Go Brave” and “Runaway”.
Singing Francine used her song to address numerous social topics, especially women’s struggles.
1975’s “A Call to Women” urged women to express themselves through calypso. “Runaway,” a 1978 calypso, urged women in harsh living situations to seek help.
In 1972, 1973, 1981, and 1983, she was National Calypso Queen. Singing Francine helped establish parang and soca parang.
Cherril “Pauline” Caraballo, Edwards’ manager and friend of 23 years, stated she was in perfect health until she suffered a heart attack two years ago.
She’s been doing well since open-heart surgery. Last Monday, Francine had cataract surgery.
Her manager and close friends were shocked by Edwards’ death.
Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Minister Randall Mitchell said Singing Francine’s legacy must be preserved.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, I offer my sympathies to Singing Francine’s family, Trinidad and Tobago, and the cultural community. We’ll always be grateful for the joy she offered, especially during the holidays, and we’ll honour and maintain her legacy.
The minister said Singing Francine has contributed to calypso’s growth and women’s empowerment for decades.
