| Tripoli was formed in the 1940s when the steelband Grow More Food changed its name to Tripoli after the 1942 American movie To The Shores of Tripoli which starred John Payne. Its first panyard was located at the corner of Mucurapo Road and Ethel Street and its first leader was Joseph "Joe Crick" Christopher. One of Tripoli's most celebrated panman was Granville Sealey who was selected to tour England with TASPO in 1951. Unfortunately, he dropped out of TASPO before the band sailed for England. In 1952, Tripoli played at the funeral service for one of its members at the St. Agnes Church on Clarence Street. This is believed to be the first time that any organized steelband played at a church service in Trinidad & Tobago. For the 1957 Carnival, the band utilized loudspeakers to amplify its sound on the road (see picture above). This is believed to be the first attempt by any steelband to amplify its sound. Casper Durant, Sr., and Herbert Simpson were credited with this innovation. Under the leadership of Hugh Borde, Tripoli performed at the 1967 World's Fair in Montreal, Canada, following which they were booked for an extensive concert tour and television appearances with the famous American pianist Liberace. Tripoli finished among the top three steelbands in the following significant competition: |
