When I heard the news about Guyanese superstar Dave Martins’ death, I became both sad and nostalgic. I hadn’t known the man terribly well personally, but he was such a huge influence on the music and culture of Cayman and a big part of my family’s earlier days on the island.
The Wheatons moved to Grand Cayman in August 1975. We had no TV back then, so most of the entertainment came in the form of live music, listening to the radio, and watching local theatre productions. At some point or the other, Dave was involved in all three.
He led the hugely popular Caribbean band, The Tradewinds, and if you couldn’t see them live, you could hear them on the radio.
As kids, our absolute favourite was their song ‘Pirate Party’. A very catchy, upbeat tune, it was a fantastic anthem for Pirates Week. Just listening to it again on YouTube after so many years, I remember a particular part in the chorus lyrics: “ … while the women dance, and the children prance, and the old people come out to see … ”.
I don’t know why, but as children, we thought it was “ … and the old people drift out to sea … ” This was back in the time when there was no internet to check, and half the population thought Jimi Hendrix was asking listeners to “‘scuse me while I kiss this guy”.
Not content to just make his mark on the world of music, Dave created the comedy revue ‘Rundown’ in 1991, which didn’t hold back from skewering local politicians and others in the public eye through skits and songs.
Not everyone could have got away with such subject matter (or been willing to ‘poke the rhino’, possibly rocking their immigration status boat). Dave not only managed it, he thrived, starting an iconic annual tradition that became more popular with every passing year, and still runs today.
It isn’t simply this legacy for which he became known; it’s the part he played in so many young musicians’ and thespians’ lives, mentoring and leading them. When his passing was announced, those upon whom his influence had had such a profound effect, took to social media to thank him for his guidance, crediting him as the reason for their rewarding careers or involvement in the arts.
From Matt Brown, local actor and comedian, to Rita Estevanovich, actor and performer successfully working in London, to Swanky Kitchen Band, who attribute their very existence to his suggestion 20 years ago that they form in order to keep cultural music alive, Dave had an extraordinary impact on more people than he probably realised.
It’s unfortunate sometimes that the true reach of those who enrich the lives of others is only properly revealed when they are no longer with us.
For example, when Mike Martin of WestStar/Cayman 27 died in June, there was an outpouring of tributes from former colleagues and staff members who spoke of his unswerving dedication to them and the job.
Some had been so young when they began working in the media field, unsure of themselves and the path they would take. They spoke of Mike’s faith in their abilities, championing their skills, and being the main reason behind their choice of career. They had learned so much from him.
I got word that my economics teacher from then John Gray High School, Eustace Francis, died last week. Despite maths being a strong subject for me, I was never great at economics … which probably explains my appalling track record with budgeting. But he was always patient and kind with me – an educator with a real heart.
I’m on a WhatsApp chat with my school year group, and everyone spoke of him being a favourite teacher and his positive impact on their lives. We all know that the job is so much more important than is reflected in the wage it attracts, and when you read such comments and memories from former students 40 years after they left school, you realise the long-lasting effect of such a person.
I was talking to some local musicians recently, and they still speak of the belief and faith that the late Charles ‘Greggie’ Gregory of Hopscotch Productions had in them. How it was his enthusiasm and passion that helped them pursue their dreams, even when they had moments of doubt.
As a musician himself, with the legendary Memory of Justice (MOJ) band, he knew the struggles and work involved firsthand, but also the sweetness of the rewards if they just kept at it. His good opinion meant a lot to them.
When his recording studio – and sound and production company – eventually phased out his full-time position as a bass player, he went on to support a whole new generation of bands, helping them reach new heights.
As you think back over your life, who really stands out as a mentor, teacher, leader … someone who made a lasting impression on you? Take the time to reach out to them, and let them know. It will make their day.
And, when you get the chance, I encourage you to find ‘Pirate Party’ by The Tradewinds on YouTube and play it on full blast. I may not remember why I walked into the kitchen these days, but I could sing that song almost word-for-word when I heard it for the first time in years.
“ … and the old people … ”
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