News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thursday. November 7, 2024: The Guyana Arthur Chung Conference Center came alive on Saturday, November 2, 2024, as Guyanese nationally of all races paid tribute to the beloved cultural icon, Dave Martins, who died in August at the age of 90.
The tribute event, titled “Dave Martins in Possession – A Musical and Visual Journey”, was organized by Guyana’s Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports in collaboration with the Department of Public Affairs, Office of the Prime Minister. It celebrated the life and legacy of Martins, whose story and music have inspired generations throughout the Caribbean and its diasporas.
Family, friends, admirers and fans gathered to pay tribute to the legendary musician as local artists and popular string band Tradewinds Caribbean performed some of Martins iconic songs. The evening also featured a video journey through the life of Martins, tracing his path from his early days in Guyana to his rise as a prominent figure in Caribbean music and culture.
Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Trade Oneidge Walrond paid a heartfelt tribute on behalf of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. “Dave wasn’t just a songwriter. He was a storyteller who made us laugh, remember and be proud of who we are,” said Minister Walrond. She praised Martins for his ability to capture the spirit of Guyanese identity without anger or division, noting that his song “Not a blade of grass” embodied a fierce but quiet pride in being Guyanese.
Through his music, Minister Walrond noted, Martins preserved the authentic spirit of the Caribbean, celebrating the unique character, strength and beauty of its people. “This was his great gift to us,” she added, “a lifelong reminder that no matter where life takes us, we carry the mark of being Guyanese and West Indian. Although he may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on to inspire, uplift and unite.”
Members of Tradewinds offered their own reflections, honoring the musician who dedicated his life to Caribbean culture. The tribute ended with the crowd singing along to the iconic anthem “Are we alone” capturing the Martins’ enduring legacy of unity and joy.
Martins, who returned to Guyana after years in Canada, became famous for calypso hits such as “Jungle Cricket”, “Civilization”, “It’s Traditional”, “Copy”, “Guyana Returns”, “Wong Ping”, AND “The West Indian Alphabet.” In 2022, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters degree by the University of Guyana. Martins passed away on August 19, 2024, leaving a musical legacy that will continue to transcend generations.
