How Old Is David Rudder

David Rudder is a celebrated Trinidadian calypsonian and soca singer whose career has spanned over four decades. His poetic lyrics and powerful performances have made him a legend not just in his homeland but across the Caribbean and beyond. Born on May 6, 1953, Rudder continues to inspire fans with his rich musical storytelling, even as he adapts to life’s changes. Many people wonder how old he is today and what milestones have shaped his remarkable journey through music and culture.

Birth and Early Years

Born in Port of Spain

Rudder was born on May 6, 1953, in Belmont, a neighborhood in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Growing up as one of nine children, he spent much of his childhood under the care of his grandmother, who nurtured his early love for music. Despite suffering from poliomyelitis as a child which affected his left leg his passion for singing remained undiminished.

Music From a Young Age

By the age of 11, Rudder was already singing in calypso bands and performing in local calypso tents. His early exposure to the genre laid the foundation for his later success.

Calculating His Age in 2025

How Old Is David Rudder?

Since David Rudder was born on May 6, 1953, he turned 72 on May 6, 2025. As of today currently July 2025 he is 72 years old, bringing decades of experience and artistic expression to his performances.

Career Milestones

Breakthrough With Charlie’s Roots

Rudder began his professional music career in 1977 with the influential band Charlie’s Roots. Their brass-driven sound and lyrical themes struck a chord across Trinidad and Tobago.

Launching Solo Stardom

In 1986, Rudder embarked on a solo career in the calypso tents, rapidly gaining acclaim as a leading calypsonian. His rise mirrored the impact of icons like Bob Marley, thanks to songs like Calypso Music and Haiti.

Legacy and Honors

Accolades and National Recognition

• 1992: Awarded the Hummingbird Silver Medal by the Trinidad and Tobago government.
• 1996: Named a Goodwill Ambassador to the United Nations Development Programme.
• 2015: Received an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from the University of the West Indies.
• 2022: Conferred the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC).

These honors reflect Rudder’s enduring impact on Caribbean culture and his role as a musical ambassador.

Personal and Health Note

Public Diagnosis and Future Plans

In April 2023, Rudder revealed he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He announced that following his 70th birthday, he would retire from large-scale concerts, but he remains committed to creating new music and performing smaller, more intimate shows.

What Defines Rudder at 72

• Still active musically, writing and performing despite Parkinson’s.
• Cultural icon with influence across the Caribbean and diaspora.
• Respected elder statesman within calypso, soca, and Caribbean arts.

At 72, Rudder blends creative vitality with personal resilience, showing the power of music to transcend challenges.

So, how old is David Rudder? He turned 72 on May 6, 2025. In many ways, his age symbolizes a lifetime of artistic achievement from his early performances in Belmont to becoming one of the most influential calypso voices globally. Despite health hurdles, he continues to share his music, stories, and cultural perspective with the world. Rudder’s journey is a testament to enduring talent, cultural pride, and the unifying power of song.