Having not studied History in depth since my secondary school days and for CXC, some 15 years ago, I still thought I would be somewhat familiar with the subject matter being discussed. During this summer, the various lectures introduced riveting topics especially music, religion, Caribbean Identity and many more.

 

 The thought provoking discussions held by Dr Carter towards the end of the course were my favourite part of the course, as they involved listening to various songs by Caribbean Calypso artists e.g. The Mighty Gabby, Sparrow, Red Plastic Bag, as well as Bob Marley. Each song held a specific meaning to the Caribbean.

 

I wholly enjoyed this course and believe I am now more aware of Caribbean culture and history as a whole. It has instilled in me a renewed desire to learn more about the Caribbean.

 

I have no regrets about studying the course, and I am feel a greater sense of Caribbean identity. 

Origins

The Crop Over Festival in Barbados (which ends with Kadooment Parade) is the season used to celebrate the ending of the local Sugar Cane harvest, an is arguably distinctly unique from the Carnival festivals in other Caribbean countries[1].

[1] Barbados Crop Over Festivalhttp://www.funbarbados.com/crop_over/ Accessed 4 July 2017 

Manifestation

‘The Barbados Crop Over Festival spreads over period of approximately (12) weeks from the month of May through to August. Although not the official start of the festival, the popular Crop Over Cavalcades, a cultural talent showcase, were designed to create excitement for the festival in communities in the parishes of Barbados.’[1]

 

The Crop Over "Visual Arts Festival" & its exhibitions play an important part in the Photography and Arts & Craft community, by annually exhibiting the skills of talented Barbadians of all ages, both amateurs and professionals.

 

Additionally, those persons who want learn more about Barbados' Heritage and Culture, there are a number of events educating and showcasing such. Some of these events are "Historic Bridgetown Heritage Tours & Walks", the "Heritage Lectures", the Crop Over "Heritage Feast" and the Ceremonial Delivery of the last Canes. Other cultural events include Speightstown Market, Bridgetown Market, Garden Parties, Flower Festivals and Folk Concerts.

 

It must also be noted that during the Festival, other characters are included such as the Mother Sally, Shaggy Bear and Green Monkey. 

[1]CROP OVER: A National Festival of Culture, Music & Revelry. 2015 http://www.funbarbados.com/crop_over/ Accessed 4 July 2017 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpxExb0qYbAOnline Video Clip. YouTube. 21 February 2017. Web. 2 July 2017

 

CROP OVER: A National Festival of Culture, Music & Revelry. 2015 http://www.funbarbados.com/crop_over/ Accessed 4 July 2017

 

The material covered in this course has allowed me to critically analyse the song and video for the song ‘Full Extreme’ by Ultimate Rejects. This is a Calypso song by Trinidadian artists in which they sing about the true Trini culture with reference to Carnival. They sing about the city and Treasury burning, however this will not deter them from jamming for Carnival. Essentially that no matter what tribulations they may face, the Trinidadians will steadfastly party and “jam” for Carnival. Additionally, they sing about the Recession not bothering them, nor the economy failing; as their main goal is to party and jam. 

 

The video depicts cars burning in the street and revellers jamming amidst the chaos, all while, the singers ‘The Ultimate Rejects’ chant repeatedly ‘We don’ miss dis’. They demonstrate and display in front of police/ Task Force; who are seen standing on guard in the midst of the chaos and revelry.  The final scenes show the artists shaking hands with the police and embracing one or two as they bring the video to an end. This shows ultimately, in my opinion, that they mean no harm and just want to enjoy themselves despite whatever may face them (the public/ society at large) either economically or socially.