Hamidullah: More Than One Stick of Matches

When veteran Calypsonian Hamidullah steps onto the Kafe Blues stage for his upcoming concert “Moods and Views,” he’s not just performing, he’s revealing new layers of himself.

“This is going to be a show with a tremendous difference,” he said during our conversation. “It’s about drama, it’s about entertainment, and it’s about looking at Hamidullah from a different perspective… to realize that I’m more than one stick of matches.” For him, the show is an exploration of the many moods that have shaped his long career — humor, social commentary, and spiritual depth all woven into one night of Calypso and theatre.

He speaks fondly of Kafe Blues, describing it not just as a venue but a space of connection. “I love the ambiance and intimacy with the audience. You could reach out and touch them… they can actually feel your vibration. It’s grounding — grounding with my people.”

That sense of grounding runs deep in Hamidullah’s reflections. At this stage of his life, his motivation is spiritual rather than material. “What I have is a gift from the Almighty,” he said quietly. “I just want to extend it so that when my time comes, I could stand before the Father and He could say, ‘There’s my son, in whom I am well pleased.’”

Moods and Views is his way of giving thanks — not just to God, but to Calypso itself. “Calypso is in a good state,” he shared, “but I want to see more of the younger ones learn to compose. Everybody have music inside them. They need to express themselves.”

And while the concert features a carefully selected cast including Valentino, Luta, Ras Komanda, Pharaoh, Skero, Sexy Susie, and Kid Kallaloo, Hamidullah’s focus remains on authenticity. “Each artist brings something special,” he explained. “Everybody on this show has a uniqueness that adds to the program.”

For him, Moods and Views is a chance to stretch beyond the usual short stage slots and share his full repertoire. “Many times, we get invited to sing one or two songs,” he said, “but this time, I get to extend myself beyond one stick of matches.”

It’s that phrase — “more than one stick of matches” — that captures the essence of Hamidullah: an artist who refuses to burn out, choosing instead to light up every stage he touches.