FDR in Trinidad
Van Dyke Parks
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When Roosevelt came to the Land of the hummingbird Shouts of welcome were heard Hummingbird, hummingbird, hummingbird His visit to their island is bound to be An epoch in local history Definitely marking the new era Between Trinidad and America We understand that the president had just been On a visit to Brazil and the Argentine With Mr Cordell Hull in attendance There they took part in a peace conference Struck by his modest style We were intrigued by the famous Roosevelt smile In fact everybody was glad To welcome Roosevelt to Trinidad We were privileged to see the democratic President of the great republic With his charm and his genial personality And his wonderful urbanity To stop war and atrocity And make the world safe for democracy The greatest event of the century In the interest of suffering humanity Port of Spain threw open her gates To the President of the United States In fact everybody was glad To welcome Roosevelt to Trinidad
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Written by: VAN DYKE PARKS
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Genre Classification"Fdr In Trinidad" is regarded as a tune embodying Caribbean and Calypso vibes, significantly contributing to Van Dyke Parks' iconic symphonic pop style.
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Song InspirationThis song was inspired by the historical visit of President Franklin D. Roosevelt to Trinidad during World War II. The lyrics reflect the local excitement around this visit.
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Album Contribution"Fdr In Trinidad" is a track from the album named "Discover America" which was released by Warner Bros in 1972. The album showcases various American music styles blending with Caribbean beats.
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Original SongThe song is a cover of a traditional calypso tune by Atilla The Hun (name of a calypso singer Raymond Quevedo, not to be mistaken with the historical warrior), which was recorded back in the late 30s. Van Dyke Parks adapted it by adding his own unique style to it.
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Musical StyleVan Dyke Parks' rendition of "Fdr In Trinidad" skillfully bridges the gap between traditional calypso and contemporary pop, showing his commitment to genre-blending in his music.
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Praise and Acclaim"Fdr In Trinidad" has been widely praised for its engaging narrative and intricate arrangement, with plenty of music critics praising Parks for his audacious exploration of different music styles.
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Instrumental FeaturesThe song is known for its use of steel drums, resonating the true essence of Trinidadian calypso and majestically fusing it with western pop.
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ProducerLenny Waronker, a long-time collaborator of Van Dyke Parks, produced "Fdr In Trinidad" steering the song to seamlessly blend different styles.
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Social CommentaryThe song includes a fair amount of social commentary, critiquing the disparity of wealth and the power dynamics at play during the president's historic island visit.
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Album AccoladeThough not having mainstream success, the album "Discover America", featuring "Fdr In Trinidad", was identified as one of the most important albums of the 20th century by Sounds magazine.
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Citation
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"FDR in Trinidad Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 11 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/1835472/Van+Dyke+Parks/FDR+in+Trinidad>.
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