Cayman National Cultural Foundation Mourns the Loss of Cultural Icon Dave Martins

The Cayman National Cultural Foundation (CNCF) expresses deep sorrow at the passing of Dave Martins, a towering figure in the Caribbean and a visionary leader whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the region.

Best known as the leader of the renowned Tradewinds band, Dave Martins captivated audiences with his dynamic rhythms and poignant social commentary.

Beyond his musical legacy, Dave Martins played a pivotal role in shaping the artistic landscape of the Cayman Islands. His influence extended far beyond the stage, as he initiated and produced the Batabano carnival in collaboration with Rotary, designed the national arts festival Cayfest, and created the beloved satirical revue Rundown working closely with CNCF Artistic Director Henry Muttoo who co-designed, directed and then later took over the writing of the production

Dave’s leadership was also evident in his roles as Chairman of the Cultural Foundation, Executive Director of the Pirates Week National Festival, and President of the Cayman Music & Entertainment Association.

“Dave Martins’ loss is felt not only in Canada, Guyana, and the Cayman Islands but throughout the world. His legacy will live on in his music, his writings, and the many cultural institutions he helped build. Speaking on behalf of the CNCF Board and Staff, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family and our gratitude for his remarkable contributions to CNCF, and Caymanian culture, over many years.” said Lorna Reid, Chairperson of the Cayman National Cultural Foundation.

Former CNCF Chairperson, Martyn Bould MBE, shared his reflections: “I am saddened to hear of the passing of Dave Martins but in turn wish to celebrate his life as a mighty cultural icon with whom I had the privilege of serving as Deputy Chairman when he was the Chairman of CNCF. My journey at CNCF over the past 40 years has enriched my life beyond measure, and Dave’s contribution to understanding the delicate nuances of our Caymanian culture and its recognition and development are well illustrated in his foreword to Miss Lassie’s book ‘My Markings’ in 1994: ‘This book has another purpose in the work of cultural retention because it demonstrates that, in the face of massive external influences, the essence of Cayman, albeit under threat, is not completely overwhelmed. The evidence is there. It is not immense and not always visible - sometimes, as in the case of Miss Lassie, we have to go behind the breadfruit trees to find it - but it is there.’ Rest in Peace, Dave - you are sadly missed.”

Dr. Henry Muttoo OBE, former Artistic Director of CNCF, also paid tribute: “Dave did his work and passed away, peacefully, at the age of 90, with his wife, Annette, at his bedside. He was an artist of tremendous vision and deceptive simplicity, whose work reached both paupers and princes. I was very fortunate to have him as CNCF Chair when I started in 1989. Indeed, it was he who wrote to me in New York to ask whether I would consider returning to Cayman to build the work of CNCF. Over the 40 years I knew him, I learned a lot and will be forever grateful that he eventually counted me among his closest and most trusted friends.”

The CNCF extends its deepest condolences to Dave Martins’ family and to all who were touched by his remarkable life and work.

He will be deeply missed but never forgotten