Celebrating the Life of “Bill”  Paul Trotman (Lord Flying Fish)

“Bill” Paul Trotman was a true son of Trinidad and Tobago whose extraordinary life was devoted to the celebration, preservation, and advancement of our nation’s culture. For more than six decades, he captivated audiences as a calypsonian, actor, visual artist, poet, mas designer, comedian, dancer, master of ceremonies, and cultural ambassador, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s artistic heritage.

Born in Port of Spain, Bill spent his early childhood in Woodbrook before his family settled in Morvant when he was ten years old. Although widely regarded as one of Morvant’s cultural elders, he never forgot his roots or his commitment to community. As a young man, he helped construct the Morvant Community Centre in 1945, a landmark built entirely through the dedication and labour of community members. He often reflected with pride that it was the first community centre built in the West Indies without government assistance.

Inspired by the legendary Geoffrey Holder, Bill discovered his passion for the arts at an early age. Performing under the stage name Lord Flying Fish, he became one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most beloved entertainers. His infectious personality, unmistakable wit, and commanding stage presence earned him admiration across generations. His timeless calypso classics, including Go Back to School, Sing a Song for Me, Would You Believe, Run, My Kinda Woman, Monkey See Monkey Do, Suck Finger Baby, and Going for King, remain treasured pieces of Trinidad and Tobago’s musical legacy.

Bill’s influence extended well beyond music. A gifted actor and comedian, he joined Sparrow’s Original Young Brigade Calypso Tent in 1963, where he spent twenty-three years as both master of ceremonies and cast member. His memorable performances in productions such as Stella Wedding Scandal, The Trial of Mano Benjamin, Nine Years’ Honeymoon, Governor’s Ball, and Baby Snatch showcased his remarkable theatrical talent and helped elevate storytelling within the calypso tradition.

As one of the country’s most respected hosts, Bill served as the master of ceremonies for the prestigious Dimanche Gras show for eleven consecutive years and was frequently called upon to host many of Trinidad and Tobago’s major Carnival and cultural productions. His warm personality, professionalism, and ability to connect with audiences made him one of the nation’s most recognizable and beloved voices.

His artistic talents were equally impressive. As a visual artist, Bill held six solo exhibitions and participated in countless group exhibitions both locally and internationally. His paintings grace the walls of private collections, hotels, government buildings, and institutions throughout Trinidad and Tobago. He also created the iconic murals displayed at De Nu Pub (The Mas Camp), preserving yet another aspect of the nation’s cultural history through visual art.

Bill’s career carried him to some of the world’s most renowned stages, including the Apollo Theater, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Madison Square Garden, the Brooklyn Museum, and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Along the way, he shared stages with and opened for internationally acclaimed performers such as Nat King Cole, Brook Benton, José Feliciano, and The Shirelles, while also crossing paths with legendary figures including Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Mick Jagger, Nina Simone, and Stevie Wonder.

A passionate masquerader, Bill embraced Carnival in every form. His portrayals of Native American Indian, Fancy Sailor, African Warrior, and the unforgettable Ugurugu – Spirit of Sacrifice—became defining moments in Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival history. He also appeared in presentations by celebrated mas designers Terry Evelyn, Peter Minshall, and Tribal Connection, helping to preserve and elevate the artistry of Carnival.

Beyond the stage, Bill was a dedicated advocate for the creative community. He served on several cultural committees and was one of the longest-serving board members of the Copyright Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (COTT), championing the rights and recognition of local artists. His lifelong commitment to culture was formally recognized in 2005 when he was awarded the Hummingbird Medal (Silver) for his outstanding contribution to the arts and culture of Trinidad and Tobago.

Above all, Bill was a man who cherished family, community, and country. His love for Trinidad and Tobago never wavered. He once chose to remain in his homeland to care for his elderly blind mother rather than relocate abroad, a testament to his deep sense of duty, compassion, and unwavering loyalty.

“Bill” Paul Trotman’s life was one of service, creativity, and inspiration. Through his music, performances, artwork, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to preserving our cultural identity, he enriched countless lives and helped shape the artistic landscape of our nation.

Though he has taken his final bow, his voice, laughter, artistry, and enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his remarkable legacy forever live on in the heart and culture of Trinidad and Tobago.

• My Epitaph

When it’s time to go

Who dares to say no?

Don’t cry, or try to stop me

Because now I am free.

Free and happy,

I mean as I have ever been.

Life is beautiful,

I’ve enjoyed it to the fullest.

I have no regrets,

Alive I am the happiest.

I came alone, I will go alone

I have been alone

But I have never been lonely.

I am going alone

And I’ll never be lonely

With god it’s a new life.

So just let me be.

Final Arrangements

A Public Viewing will be held on Thursday, 16th July 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Belgroves Funeral Home, 11 Borde Street, Port of Spain.

The Tribute Service will take place on Friday, 17th July 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Morvant Central Community Centre, Cipriani Street, Morvant.

A private cremation will follow.