🎵 Caribbean cultural icon Dave Martins passes away at 90

Acclaimed Guyanese musician and Caribbean cultural icon, Dave Martins, passed away on Sunday, 18 August, at the age of 90. The Cayman Islands Ministry of Culture described Martins as a visionary whose influence on Caymanian and wider Caribbean culture was extraordinary. As the leader of the iconic Tradewinds band, Martins' music was a blend of dynamic rhythms, vibrant melodies, and thought-provoking commentary, leaving a lasting legacy on the region's cultural fabric.🎶

Martins played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of the Cayman Islands. His enduring legacy includes the founding of the Batabano carnival, the creation of Cayfest, and the inception of the beloved satirical revue Rundown, which remains a cornerstone of Caymanian cultural expression. He held leadership roles in several cultural institutions, highlighting his dedication to cultural preservation and growth. His wife, Annette Arjoon Martins, expressed her gratitude for the fifteen years of love, support, and shared passions they enjoyed together.🎭

Culture Minister Dwayne Seymour expressed his sadness over Martins' passing, praising his vision and commitment to culture. Martins' ability to encapsulate the essence of Caymanian culture was unmatched, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations, said Seymour. Martins was a beloved figure throughout the Caribbean, and his passing marks a significant loss for the entire region. His legacy will endure through the institutions he helped build and the countless lives he enriched.🕊️