Roaring Lion (born Rafael de Leon, Aroquita, Trinidad, British Trinidad and… Read Full Bio ↴Roaring Lion (born Rafael de Leon, Aroquita, Trinidad, British Trinidad and Tobago, February 22, 1908; died July 11, 1999) was one of the greatest calypsonians (calypso singer/composers) of the 20th century. His 65-year career began in the early 1930s and he is best known for his compositions "Ugly Woman" (1933), "Mary Ann" and "Netty, Netty," which are still performed today.
From a young age, Roaring Lion (de Leon's adopted stage name) became known for his skill in creating calypsos (particularly in his ability to extemporize lyrics on any subject). Contrary to his humble origins, he cultivated a refined stage persona and always appeared sharply dressed. His career officially began in 1924. He recorded extensively between the 1930s and 1950s, and was one of the calypsonians who deserves the most credit for the increasing international popularity of the genre during this period. In March 1934 the Trinidadian phonograph merchant Eduardo Sa Gomes sent Roaring Lion and Attila The Hun to New York to record; they became the first calypsonians to record abroad.[5][6]
Roaring Lion achieved fame for his linguistic prowess as much as for his catchy tunes. His lyrics, delivered in rapid-fire style, show an impeccable command of the English language (as well as Trinidadian slang), and are replete with witty turns of phrase, humorous metaphors, and clever alliterations and internal rhymes.
From a young age, Roaring Lion (de Leon's adopted stage name) became known for his skill in creating calypsos (particularly in his ability to extemporize lyrics on any subject). Contrary to his humble origins, he cultivated a refined stage persona and always appeared sharply dressed. His career officially began in 1924. He recorded extensively between the 1930s and 1950s, and was one of the calypsonians who deserves the most credit for the increasing international popularity of the genre during this period. In March 1934 the Trinidadian phonograph merchant Eduardo Sa Gomes sent Roaring Lion and Attila The Hun to New York to record; they became the first calypsonians to record abroad.[5][6]
Roaring Lion achieved fame for his linguistic prowess as much as for his catchy tunes. His lyrics, delivered in rapid-fire style, show an impeccable command of the English language (as well as Trinidadian slang), and are replete with witty turns of phrase, humorous metaphors, and clever alliterations and internal rhymes.
Carnival Long Ago
Roaring Lion Lyrics
We have lyrics for these tracks by Roaring Lion:
Ugly Woman If you want to be happy and live a king's…
The lyrics are frequently found in the comments by searching or by filtering for lyric videos
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@douglahdrum1
The sound of the Lion. My daughter has a 4 month baby boy. The named him LION. GOD BLESS!!!
@wiredread1
One of the great carnival songs its gives you history and what our carnival was all about.
@santitofelipe6283
I've played this song more than 100 times already..
My Neighbors HATE ME!
@brandisyounge3561
No they love you
@brandisyounge3561
No they LOVE you!
@CarnivalVillage
Classic will never die thanks Roaring Lion
@Trintana
Great thanks to Rafael de Leon.... The Roaring Lion, for adding his beautiful contributions to the fabric, that makes our land Trinidad and Tobago!!
@PJCaqua
great one!!
@scottfsimpson
I knew you would have this! Top Class selection as always Luis!
@SuperSnk1
Dis is Class.