Message Board Archives

�������������� ���� ��������������������

���� �������� ���� ������������������ ����������������

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a true Caribbean icon, Dave Martins, whose music was the heartbeat of our region. As the leader of the Tradewinds band, Dave captured the essence of the Caribbean spirit and its identity, blending upbeat rhythms with biting satire that spoke to our hearts and minds. His music not only invited us to laugh at ourselves but also encouraged us to stand tall and be proud of our Guyanese and Caribbean heritage.

"Not a Blade of Grass," his timeless anthem, stands as a powerful statement to our nation’s collective resistance against threats to our sovereignty and territorial integrity. In our moments of challenges, it was Dave's music that lifted our spirits, reminding us of the strength and resilience we hold as a people and our duty never to surrender an inch of our territory

Dave Martins was more than just a musician; he was a true Caribbean person whose influence extended beyond borders, touching the lives of countless individuals across the region. His loss is deeply felt, not only in Guyana but throughout the entire Caribbean and in our diaspora.

Whenever his music plays, no matter where you are, it stirs a deep sense of pride in being a Caribbean person. The rhythms and melodies carry the essence of our shared heritage, reminding us of who we are and where we come from. Dave Martins' music connects us to our roots and fills us with a profound love for our Caribbean identity.

I am confident that while he has passed on, his music will live on. Guyana and the Caribbean are indeed poorer for his passing, but we are infinitely richer for having had the privilege of experiencing his art, his passion, and his deep love for our country and the culture of the Caribbean. Dave Martins will be dearly missed, but his spirit will forever resonate in the rhythms of our Caribbean identity.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Annette and to his family, friends and massive following of fans.

Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali

President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana

Giraffe and kangaroo at fine leg,
Snake down in de gully.

“I learned a lot from listening to the approaches of the Trinis, particularly Sparrow, and Lord Kitchener, but I was also a big fan of Lord Blakie, the man with the ribald infectious laugh, and Andre Tanker with his clever lyrics. It was then, and remains now, a treasure trove for me.”

As a youngster, he spent most of his boyhood days frolicking along the quiet coastlands of West Demerara. He was the only boy of the Martins clan—a family with very humble beginnings.
In fact, he explained that both his parents belonged to indentured Portuguese families.
“In fact, I am told that my father, Joseph Francis Martins, was born in Funchal Madeira, an Island in Portugal. He was smuggled in a mattress abroad a ship en route to British Guiana – the place where his parents were headed to work as indentured labourers. So, my parents spoke to each other in Portuguese around the house, most of the time.”