According to Trinidad Express, Soca Parang artiste, Kenny J, whose true name was Kenwrick Joseph, died on January 2, 2022, following a two-week fight with COVID-19.
Kenny J, 69, of Coora Road, Siparia, died at the Augustus Long Hospital in Pointe-a-Pierre at 11.25 am Sunday.
The former Assistant Superintendent of Police is survived by four children and ten grandkids. His wife passed away 11 years ago.
According to his daughter, Jeselle Joseph, he began feeling flu-like symptoms two weeks ago and chose to be tested. He tested positive for COVID-19, according to the results. As Joseph's health worsened, he was transported to Augustus Long from the Siparia District Health Facility.
“I spoke to him a couple of days ago, and he was doing OK, but he was a bit disoriented. He did not have the normal triggers to tell whether it was day or night. He would call and ask how I was doing. He was in and out of sleep as he was under medication. COVID-19 requires you to rest,” Jeselle said.
The musician had no known illness, according to his daughter.
Kenny J was featured recently in a public service announcement video series spearheaded by promoter Randy Glasgow and produced by the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB).
Kenny J was born in 1952 on Prices of Wales Street in San Fernando and discovered a passion for music. He was crowned Police Calypso Monarch in 1987. He qualified for the National Calypso Monarch finals four times, coming second in 1990 with his performances of Addicted to Sweet Soca and Leave She Alone.
The family will post funeral details to his Facebook page.