Guyanese musical legend Dave Martins, who was a pivotal part of the award-winning Tradewinds Caribbean string band, and whose song” Not a Blade of Grass,” became an anthem to bring nationals together against Venezuela’s claim to Essequibo, died on Aug. 19 in Georgetown. He was 90.
Wife, Annette Arjoon Martins who posted on her Facebook page that she was “eternally grateful to have shared fifteen years of unconditional love, support and especially shared passions for everything Guyanese with my soul mate,” later thanked the scores of fans, who expressed sadness at the passing of the well-loved lyricist.
President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali also conveyed sadness at the passing of Martins saying that the man who was born in the West Coast of Demerara, was “a true Caribbean Icon”.
“It’s a great loss to Guyana. He is one of our cultural icons and one of the men who took a lot of Guyanese culture and put it into music and wherever you went in the world, you could have related to it and be proud of it.” wrote Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dave Martins. His contributions to music, culture, and the community have left an indelible mark. Dave’s talent, passion, dedication, and patriotism were truly inspiring, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. During this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him,” said Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.
Martins, who remigrated to Guyana after living in Canada, for many years, became famous for his catchy songs, Cricket in the Jungle”, “Civilization”, “It’s Traditional”, “Copycats”, “Guyana Coming Back”, “Wong Ping”, and West Indian Alphabet.”
His knack for great entertainment, and jovial spirit was on full display at the University of Guyana Artist in Residence program, where he performed at the Sea Wall Bandstand, much to the pleasure of nationals who flooded the area to listen to his music.
According to an in-depth article penned by Dr. Dhanpaul Narine, Martins, worked at Atkinson Airport for four years and then he migrated to Canada in 1956. He became exposed to Trinidadians that had a good record collection and the music wrapped him and held him in awe. Martins said that some of his early songs were influenced by that era, wrote Narine.
Narine wrote that Trade Winds was formed after Dave saw an advertisement in a Toronto newspaper from someone who wanted to start a Caribbean band. He answered the advertisement and a group of four musicians was born.
The band sounded good, and it was hired six nights a week. Dave moved away from mainly Latin music, and he also changed the name of the group to the Debonairs. They could now play a mixture that included calypso.
Narine wrote that Martins cared deeply about the welfare of young people. “Their success is influenced by their upbringing, and they must not forget their roots,” said Martins.
Martins credited his parents Zepherina and Joseph Francis for values they imparted in him as a child that have enabled him to treat people with respect, honesty and kindness.
Most memorable, was when Martins met a beautiful young lady Annette Arjoon. He was impressed with her knowledge of Amerindian life, her photography, aviation skills and ideas on conservation, according to the article.
Narine wrote, “Dave Anthony Martins is an icon, and a treasure that brings entertainment and wisdom to many.”
In 2022, Martins was conferred with the honorary degree of Doctor of Letters from the University of Guyana.
Dave Martins, who attended the prestigious St. Stanislaus College in Georgetown, will be remembered for his stirring commentary, jovial spirit, and legendary music that touched every corner of his homeland.
