ST. KITTS AND NEVIS MOURNS CULTURAL ICON KING ELLIE MATT

Legendary St. Kitts and Nevis calypsonian and bandleader King Ellie Matt has died at the age

of 72. His passing was reported on April 26, 2026.

Born Elston Nero in Newtown, St. Kitts, King Ellie Matt was widely regarded as one of the

Federation’s most influential cultural figures. Over a distinguished career, he earned an

impressive 17 major titles, including ten Calypso King crowns and seven Road March

victories.

He was celebrated not only for his commanding stage presence but also for his songwriting

and musical arrangements. Among his most popular hits were “I Love St. Kitts – Viva St.

Kitts,” “Joke Dey Making,” and “De Poor Can’t Take No More.”

IN an interview on Studio 327’s Good Morning S.t Kitts and Nevis, King Ellie Matt in speaking

about his newly launched autobiography at the time, shared about his upbringing and his

patriotism.

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King Ellie Matt also led the renowned band “Ellie Matt and the GI’s Brass” for more than two

decades, helping to shape the sound of calypso in St. Kitts and Nevis while promoting

national pride through music.

Tributes have been pouring in from across the Federation, with many describing him as a

cultural giant, a master musician, and a national treasure.