Machel’s achievement was celebrated last week by friends and family. Among those present were Tony Chow Lin On and Montano’s partner, Renee Butcher. PHOTO CREDIT: Jermaine Cruickshank

In the wake of the sudden death of two of Trinidad and Tobago’s calypso stalwarts- The Mighty Shadow and De Fosto, Machel Montano was last week honored by the University of Trinidad and Tobago- the young veteran receiving a Doctorate for his years of artistic and cultural contribution in his homeland.

Elizabeth Montano graduated in October with her Master’s Degree.

Machel Montano has given his life to the art form known as Soca and with every victory attained, Trinidad and Tobago has been represented. On Thursday, November 15th, as Machel received his honors, he thanked the people responsible for his development as a human being- his parents and brother Marcus. He also thanked his former music teacher, who he explained, was blind. “I want to dedicate this award to him also,” he said of the teacher who he credited with coaching him when he had just started his career in music. “He was a blind man by the name of Ashford Joseph of Siparia. Rest in peace, I wish he could have seen this moment,” said Montano.

Machel was all smiles last week’s graduation ceremony. PHOTO CREDIT: Jermaine Cruickshank

Machel’s mother, Elizabeth Montano who ironically, graduated with a Masters of Philosophy in Cultural Studies in October, said of her son’s bestowed honor, “Congratulations my son. I see the feeling in your heart, reflected in your smile.”

His response to his mom’s post was heart warming to say the least :

“Thank you beautiful mother! My work could not have been what it is today without you and ‘tocobushdoc” and our strong family. Thank you for always supporting us.” – MACHEL MONTANO. 

Machel Montano has been a part of the entertainment industry since the age of 9. He is now 43 -years- old and celebrates his birthday on November 24th.