Justin ‘Hero’ Cassell, who died last week aged 80, has been dubbed a “national icon” in a series of tributes.
The popular member of the island’s community made his mark as an agriculturist, award-winning calypso musician, radio host and politician.
He won Montserrat’s calypso crown more than any other artist and wrote some of internationally acclaimed calypso artist and brother Alphonsus ‘Arrow’ Cassell’s biggest hits.
Cassell was also awarded the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States’ calypso crown in 1986 in Dominica.
In 2022, the Government of Montserrat presented him with the Order of Excellence for his service and achievements towards the advancement of music regionally and internationally.
A gift to the nation
Deputy Premier Samuel Joseph, during an episode of ‘From the Minister’s Chair’ on 5 February, said Montserrat as a nation and as a family will miss Cassell.
“There are people in our society that have done a lot to make Montserrat itself, as an island, as a country, what it is, and we don’t miss them until they’re gone,” he said.
“And that’s a cliché thing to say, but sometimes we sit back and we consider the people that have made Montserrat, that have put Montserrat on the map… and Hero was one of them.”
The deputy premier said that while the government’s focus is often on the infrastructure of the island, “what makes a nation is its people, its music, its culture, its food”.
Cassell was someone who was deeply involved in island life, and contributed in the areas of music, culture, agriculture, teaching and politics, Joseph said.
“I think it’s something that we should thank him for, to thank his family for, for his gift that he has given to this nation.”
Calypso king
Leader of the opposition, Paul Lewis, also paid tribute to Cassell, who he called a “cultural icon” and a “true luminary in every sense”.
“His unparalleled prowess as a calypso and soca songwriter and artist, coupled with a resonant voice, crowned him as a multiple times Calypso King; leaving an indelible mark on the music scene,” he said.
“As a radio programme host, he skilfully engaged audiences through shows like ‘Eyes on the Country’ and fearlessly navigated opposition radio programmes, showcasing his dynamic presence in media and politics.”
Lewis said that beyond the microphone, Cassell stood as one of Montserrat’s top agricultural scientists, agriculture teacher, reliable promoter and an astute organiser.
“His dedication to diverse fields showcased a brilliance that transcended boundaries,” he said.
The opposition leader added that he was an all-rounder whose legacy continues to inspire and resonate.
“May his music, words, and contributions echo through time, reminding us of a remarkable soul who left an enduring impact on Montserrat and beyond,” he said.
‘A true son of the soil’
A statement from the Montserrat Tourism Division described Cassell as a “true legend, a cultural icon, and a remarkable agriculturalist”.
“The passing of the late musician behind the timeless hit ‘Tiny Winey’ leaves a profound void in our hearts,” it reads.
“His contribution to our cultural heritage and agricultural legacy will forever be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his spirit continue to inspire generations to come.
“Our sincere condolence to the Cassell family. Rest in peace, dear friend, you will always be remembered as a true son of the soil.”
Kenneth ‘Rabo’ Silcott, director of the Montserrat Arts Council, extended his deepest condolences to Cassell’s family.
“Today we mourn once again the loss of another cultural and calypso icon,” he said.
“Hero was a methodical genius and a lyrical mastermind. His sweet voice and recordings transcend beyond his years on this earth.”
Cassell died in the United Kingdom on Monday, 5 February, after an illness.
