Final answer:
Calypso is the style of music from Trinidad known for its witty lyrics and social commentary. It has historical African influences and became internationally recognized in the 20th century. While Calypso is distinct to Trinidad, the Caribbean hosts many unique music genres island by island.
Step-by-step explanation:
The music style from Trinidad known for its witty vocals and "poking fun" social commentary is Calypso. Calypso music is a blend of African musical influences, which became distinct in the early 20th century. It has played a significant role in Carnival and Caribbean festivals, featuring instruments like the steel pan.
Calypso music gained international recognition with performances by artists like Harry Belafonte, particularly his rendition of "Day-O" (the Banana Boat Song). Although Calypso has humorous elements and often includes social commentary, it also paved the way for other Caribbean music styles. Reggae, for example, is another popular genre that originated in Jamaica in the 1960s and has roots in styles like Mento. It has been widely popularized by musicians such as Bob Marley and has had a global influence.
The Caribbean boasts a rich tapestry of music, with unique genres specific to each island reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of the region. From the meringue of the Dominican Republic to the bouyon of Dominica and the rara of Haiti, these musical styles exemplify the vibrancy of Caribbean culture.