ECNETNews, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Mon. Aug. 19, 2024: The Caribbean music scene mourns the loss of Guyanese-born singer Dave Martins, the esteemed leader of the Tradewinds band and the voice behind the iconic patriotic song ‘Not A Blade of Grass.’ Martins passed away in Guyana on Sunday, August 18th, at the age of 90.
In a heartfelt tribute, Martins’ wife expressed her gratitude for their fifteen years together, highlighting their shared love for Guyanese culture. The cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
Both President Irfaan Ali and Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton honored Martins’ legacy, acknowledging his role as a cultural icon who significantly impacted Caribbean music. President Ali described him as the “heartbeat of our region,” noting how his music encapsulated the Caribbean spirit, infused with humor and a deep sense of pride in Guyanese heritage. The President emphasized that Martins’ timeless anthem, ‘Not A Blade of Grass,’ served as a powerful statement of national resilience.
Opposition Leader Norton remarked on Martins’ profound influence, stating that his music allowed Guyanese everywhere to connect with their culture and identity. He lamented the loss, recognizing Martins as a vital cultural ambassador for Guyana.
Born in Hague, Region 3, Martins’ journey into music began early in life. His family’s relocation to Vreed-en-Hoop allowed him to explore his interests in literature and music, nurtured by his mother’s love for singing. His formative years included meaningful interactions with various people, which sparked his lifelong passion for storytelling through song.
In 1966, Martins founded the Tradewinds, a band known for its calypso-infused Caribbean sound. He became a pioneer of Caribbean music in Canada, where he successfully bridged cultural gaps and promoted Guyanese music on a larger scale. Beyond ‘Not A Blade of Grass,’ the band produced numerous hits that resonated within and beyond the Caribbean community.
Martins celebrated his 90th birthday in April 2024, and in recognition of his contributions to the arts, he received an honorary degree from the University of Guyana in 2022.
