Tributes pour in for Oscar B

The music fraternity and Tobago are mourning the loss of celebrated soca artiste Oscar Benjamin, affectionately known as Oscar B, who passed away yesterday morning at the age of 57. Benjamin, a native of Signal Hill, Tobago, died just hours before a benefit concert, the Tobago Family and Friends Healing Concert, was scheduled to take place at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex.

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Oscar B dedicated his life to sharing the gift of music, bringing joy to audiences and proudly representing Tobago wherever he performed. It is especially heart-breaking that he passed away less than 24 hours before the scheduled Tobago Family & Friends Healing Concert, an event organised by those who loved and admired him to support his recovery following his recent illness. While he may not have witnessed that extraordinary outpouring of affection, it stands as a lasting testament to the lives he touched and the deep respect he earned throughout his career.

The concert was organized to support his medical recovery following a stroke he suffered in May. The Division of Tourism, Antiquities and Creative Industries under the Tobago House of Assembly confirmed that the event would proceed as planned, but would now serve as a tribute to Benjamin's life and his significant contributions to Caribbean culture.

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Waking up to sad news this morning hearing my dear Friend Oscar B pass away. May you fly with the angels above until we meet again. Always enjoy watching your performance. You will be missed. Rest in Peace.

Following the news of his death, tributes flowed in from across the music industry, government officials, and the wider community. The Ministry of Culture and Community Development described Benjamin as "a cherished son of Tobago and a celebrated ambassador of our culture." The ministry noted his musical journey began in church choirs before he joined the Signal Hill Alumni Choir in 1982.

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a cherished son of Tobago and a celebrated ambassador of our culture

Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin paid tribute, stating, "Oscar B dedicated his life to sharing the gift of music, bringing joy to audiences and proudly representing Tobago wherever he performed." She highlighted the heartbreaking timing of his death, occurring less than 24 hours before the concert organized by those who loved him. Veteran soca artiste Austin “SuperBlue” Lyons and Signal Hill Secondary School also posted heartfelt condolences, remembering Benjamin as "more than a gifted singer and entertainer" and a "living legend."

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more than a gifted singer and entertainer