The Echo of a Legend: UWI Mourns the Passing of Roy Cape
The soulful sounds of Roy Cape’s saxophone once echoed through the grounds of The University of the West Indies (The UWI) St. Augustine Campus, leaving an indelible impression on many who heard them. That will forever be a fond memory as the campus community mourns the passing of Roy Cape, an iconic musician and beloved Honorary Graduate. From gracing the stage as a performer to receiving one of the university’s highest honours, his connection with The UWI was a special one when in 2011, in recognition of his contribution to Caribbean music and culture, The UWI conferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Letters, honoris causa.
Affectionately known as “Doctah Horn,” Roy Cape was an icon of resilience and artistic excellence. Born from humble beginnings, his journey to international acclaim is an inspiration to all. Despite early adversities, including institutionalization at the St. Dominic’s Children’s Home at a young age, he found solace in music, discovering the clarinet and saxophone, which would go on to define his renowned career. A man of disarming simplicity and subtle sophistication, his talent transcended borders, carrying the melodies of the Caribbean to audiences around the world.
In 2004, he received the Humming Bird medal in gold in the national honours list and numerous articles in the popular press have highlighted and paid glowing tributes to his work.
For over five decades, Roy Cape’s sound was the heartbeat of Carnival and his contribution to the music industry, particularly in calypso and soca, is incomparable. As the founder and leader of the Roy Cape All Stars, he nurtured and supported countless artists, significantly shaping the region’s musical identity with his band being the preferred choice for many singers, composers, kaiso and soca artistes, as well as masqueraders and party-goers. Roy Cape and his band were exceptional ambassadors for these art forms and successfully spread their influence globally.
As a performer, Roy Cape toured extensively, bringing his music to prestigious events such as the WOMAD the Portsmouth Festival in England, the Hoogstraten Festival in Belgium, the Helsinki Festival and the 2006 World Cup Soccer Finals in Germany, as well as performing across the Caribbean.
In paying her respects, Professor Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal of The UWI St. Augustine Campus, offered her condolences:
“Roy Cape’s passing is a tremendous loss, not only for the music community but for The UWI family since as an Honorary Graduate, he will always be part of our legacy. His extraordinary contributions to Caribbean music and impact on the Caribbean soundscape will continue to inspire generations, particularly through his unmatched work in brass music. Although his contributions to the steelband movement may have been less visible, they were significant as he mentored, connected personalities, and built relationships that godfathered the pan movement.”
Former Campus Principal of The UWI St. Augustine, Professor Clement Sankat, also reflected on Roy Cape’s immense contributions:
“Roy Cape was a leading figure in Trinidad and Tobago’s music scene. From Tents to Fetes, including UWI Carnival fetes, his saxophone brought sweet soca music to the ears of many, accompanying icons like David Rudder, Black Stalin, and Blaxx. The UWI recognized his immense talent with an Honorary Doctorate, celebrating his warmth, humility, and generosity. Though he is gone, his music and legacy will live on.”
Sharing sentiments of condolences, Vice-Chancellor of The UWI, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles said, “As a true cultural and musical icon, Roy Cape’s contributions have been immeasurable. His passion and talents were inimitable. Across the university system, The UWI mourns this loss.”
Roy Cape’s unmatched influence was further celebrated during “Pappy: A Tribute to Roy Cape” at The UWI Classic Concert in 2016, where the region’s top performers honoured his life’s work and raised funds for his medical expenses.
The UWI extends its deepest condolences to Roy Cape’s family, friends, and the wider Caribbean music fraternity. His life was a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and community. Though he has left us, his music will continue to nourish our hearts, minds, and souls for generations to come. May he rest in peace.
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