Guyanese-born singer and band leader Dave Martins, renowned for his iconic patriotic anthem “Not A Blade of Grass,” passed away in Guyana on Sunday, August 18, 2024. He was 90 years old. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

Martins’ wife, Annette Arjoon-Martins, took to Facebook to express her grief and gratitude. “Eternally grateful to have shared fifteen years of unconditional love, support, and especially shared passions for everything Guyanese with my soulmate,” she wrote.

President Irfaan Ali and Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton both honored Martins, reflecting on his significant impact on Caribbean music and culture. President Ali described Martins as a “true Caribbean icon” whose music was integral to the region’s cultural identity. “As the leader of the Tradewinds band, Dave captured the essence of the Caribbean spirit and its identity,” Ali said. “His music invited us to laugh at ourselves while encouraging us to embrace our heritage with pride.”

Ali praised Martins’ anthem “Not A Blade of Grass” as a powerful symbol of resistance against threats to Guyana’s sovereignty. He emphasized how Martins’ music uplifted spirits and reinforced the collective strength and resilience of the Caribbean people. “Dave Martins was more than just a musician; his influence extended beyond borders, touching countless lives across the region and diaspora. His music connects us to our roots and fills us with a profound love for our Caribbean identity,” Ali concluded.

Dave Martins was born in Hague, Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Guyana, to Joseph and Zepherina Martins. At the age of ten, his family moved to Vreed-en-Hoop, where he completed his primary education before attending St. Stanislaus College in Georgetown. It was during his time at St. Stanislaus that Martins developed a passion for literature, music, and languages.

In a 2023 interview, Martins reminisced about his upbringing. He fondly recalled his mother’s love for music and his father’s farming activities along the Pomeroon River. These early experiences, along with his interactions with people he met during his travels, inspired his musical career. “The conversations I had and the real-life stories I heard fascinated me. I believe this sparked my interest in composing music,” he said.

Martins’ exposure to Trinidadian Calypso music, with its drama and power, further shaped his artistic vision. “I became familiar with Trinidad Calypso music and knew I wanted to create something similar with my own twist,” he noted.

Relocating to Toronto, Canada, Martins immersed himself in the business side of music. There, he joined a Caribbean band called the Debonairs, which performed frequently. Eventually, in 1966, Martins founded his own band, The Tradewinds. “We were a natural group who loved the music, the stories, and the people,” he recalled. “We just grew from there.”

The Tradewinds band became a pioneering force in bringing Caribbean music to Canada. Martins and his band produced numerous hits, including “Honeymooning Couple,” “Cricket in the Jungle,” “Civilisation,” and “Sweet Talk.” His music often drew from contemporary events and cultural themes, reflecting both humor and social commentary.

Martins celebrated his 90th birthday in April 2024. In recognition of his contributions to literature and music, the University of Guyana awarded him an honorary Doctor of Letters degree in 2022.

Dave Martins’ passing marks the end of an era for Caribbean music. His legacy, marked by his vibrant songs and dedication to his roots, will continue to inspire and resonate within the Caribbean community and beyond.