Julian Whiterose

Who is Julian Whiterose?

Julian Whiterose was a pioneering calypso performing and recording artist. He also performed under the names J. White Rose, Henry Julian, and J. Resigna.

Early calypso performers sang in French. Whiterose is credited with the growth of the English language calypso. During the era that Whiterose performed, the musical style was called cariso or chantwell.

Whiterose was one of the first chantwell musicians whose works were recorded, and the first vocalist to record. He recorded "Iron Duke in the Land" for the Victor label in 1914. This title is the only existing recording of Whiterose. It was included on the 1989 Rounder Records CD compilation Calypso Pioneers 1912-1937.