Early Years: Stedson Wiltshire was born and raised in Black Rock, St. Michael, Barbados. Growing up in a musically vibrant environment, he was inspired by the rhythms and cultural heritage of Barbados. He began performing at an early age and quickly developed a passion for calypso, a genre rooted in storytelling, satire, and social commentary.
Start of Career: Wiltshire entered the calypso scene in the early 1980s. His stage name, “Red Plastic Bag,” was derived from a character he portrayed during his early performances. He gained attention for his witty lyrics, charismatic performances, and ability to address social and political issues in a lighthearted yet meaningful manner.
Rise to Stardom: In 1982, Red Plastic Bag won the Barbados Calypso Monarch competition for the first time, marking the beginning of a highly successful career. Over the years, he became a dominant figure in Barbadian calypso, winning the Calypso Monarch title a record 10 times. His successes in the competition earned him a revered place in the hearts of calypso enthusiasts.
Notable Achievements: RPB’s music is known for its infectious energy and clever wordplay. He has produced numerous hit songs, including “Ragga Ragga,” “Something’s Happening,” and “Volcano.” His songs often reflect the pulse of Barbadian society, tackling social issues, politics, and cultural themes with a humorous and entertaining twist.
Ups and Downs: Despite his successes, Red Plastic Bag faced challenges along the way. The competitive nature of the calypso scene meant that he had to continually innovate and stay relevant. He navigated the pressures of fame while balancing his personal life and maintaining his artistic integrity. Despite these challenges, RPB remained a beloved figure in Barbados, consistently producing music that resonated with audiences.
Legacy and Impact: Red Plastic Bag’s legacy is not only his remarkable record of Calypso Monarch wins but also his role in shaping the modern calypso landscape in Barbados. He inspired a new generation of calypsonians and remains a cultural icon in his home country. RPB’s commitment to using music to bring joy and provoke thought has solidified his place in calypso history.
Personal Life: Details about RPB’s personal life, including information about his family, are not widely known. He tends to keep his personal matters private, focusing on his music and contributions to the calypso community. Nonetheless, his fans and supporters have great respect for him, both as a performer and as a person.
Real Name: Stedson Wiltshire (Red Plastic Bag (RPB))
Date of Birth: March 17, 1962
Birth Place: Black Rock, St. Michael, Barbados
Residence: Barbados
Profession: Calypsonian, Songwriter
Nationality: Barbadian
Religion: Christianity
Partner: Details not publicly disclosed
Father: Details not publicly disclosed
Mother: Details not publicly disclosed
Horoscope: Pisces
Age: 62 years (as of 2024)
Body Type: Athletic
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black