A style of Caribbean music characterized by improvised lyrics on topical themes. Also refers to the sea nymph in Greek mythology who detained Odysseus.
From Greek Kalypso (Καλυψώ), from the verb kalyptein meaning 'to cover, conceal, hide.' In Homer's Odyssey, the nymph Calypso concealed Odysseus on her island. The musical style was named for its often hidden or coded social commentary.
Calypso music inherited its mythological name perfectly - just as the nymph 'concealed' Odysseus, calypso songs often 'conceal' social and political criticism within seemingly lighthearted melodies and wordplay. The music became a vehicle for commentary that could hide in plain sight!
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