David Michael Rudder was born in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago on May 6th, 1953. He suffered from polio as a young child, resulting in his left leg being damaged. As a child he spent much of his time with his grandmother, a spiritual Baptist. He showed a great interest in the arts, including painting and sculpting. He began singing at the age of 11 with the music group The Solutions. He became known in the calypso tents as a background singer, one of which was run by Lord Kitchener. When David filled in for the lead singer of the band Charlie Roots, he became known for his invigorating performances and for writing his own songs. He also took his role in calypso differently than most artists; he abstained from drinking and the party scene and would regularly bring his children on stage– a unique lifestyle for a calypsonian artist at the time. His song “Hot Hot Hot” became a mega hit and spread internationally. Other major hits include Bahia Girl (1986) and Hammer (1986). In 1987 he released “Calypso Music” which encapsulated the history of calypso, followed by his most popular album Haiti in 1988. Ruder would go on to become a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador in 1991, representing the Caribbean. Rudder now resides in Canada and continues to perform, including back yard jam sessions and performances around North America and Europe. He stands heavily by his music and it’s connection to his culture.