The Friends of Democracy (FOD) has paid tribute to Sir Charles Emile Straker, describing his death as the loss of a towering figure who carried Barbadian music to the world stage and helped define the island’s cultural identity for generations.
Straker, who had been ailing for some time, died early on Friday aged 90. He was the lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist, and the last of the original founders of the Merrymen Trio, later The Merrymen, in 1962, with Robin Hunte and Chris Gibbs.
Ricky Williams, FOD spokesperson for sports and culture, in a formal statement, described Straker as a musical icon.
During his career, he penned and sang numerous hits. His most notable track, “Big Bamboo“, achieved international success, spending 18 consecutive weeks at number one on various European charts, Williams said. Known for his distinctive vocals, he celebrated his heritage by integrating the pennywhistle into The Merrymen’s repertoire in Bajan style.
He continued: “Sir Charles’ true contribution to Barbados and the Caribbean came in how he was able to take our local and regional way of life and create music such as Beautiful Barbados, Nutseller, and Gary Sobers, among others.”
He hailed the Merrymen for bringing Barbadian culture to some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including New York’s Madison Square Garden, and the Royal Festival Hall and the Royal Albert Hall in London.
This global journey culminated in a half-time appearance at America’s biggest sporting event, Super Bowl XIII in 1979. The group played before a live crowd of 80 000 people and took Barbados’ indigenous folk music to millions of viewers around the world.
“A vacuum was created with the loss of this giant,” Williams said. “He will be surely missed. Friends of Democracy extends condolences to the family of Sir Charles Emile Straker on his passing. May he Rest In Peace.”
(RR)
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