ST. MAARTEN HAST LOST A NATIONAL ICON
Governor Richards on passing of Nathaniel â??Tannyâ?? Davis
With the passing of Nathaniel â?? Tannyâ?? Davis, St. Maarten has lost an icon, a national treasure. So says Governor Franklyn Richards on the passing of the former leader of Tanny & the Boys, St. Maartenâ??s most acclaimed string band.
"I wish to express heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased, as well as to members of his former group, left to mourn his passing", says Richards.
"I did have the distinct pleasure of witnessing Tanny and his group provide great entertainment at many official functions, held at numerous locations, including some memorable moments at Governorâ??s Mansion, in past years. Tannyâ??s characteristic voice and commanding performance has been always been a treat to all, including many visitors to the island, among which are Her Majesty Queen Beatrix", adds Richards.
Having enjoyed the distinction of being a member of the oldest existing band of its kind on St. Maarten, "Tanny will certainly be remembered as one of those celebrated old time musicians; he would never let age, or anything else, get in the way of his performing and honoring an engagement, even when it meant traveling abroad", notes Governor Richards.
Tanny and members of his group have done St. Maarten proud for many decades, whether it was in the neighboring islands or the Netherlands and Germany, notes Richards.
"Itâ??s a good thing that we were able to pay tribute him with a royal decoration, just a few years ago", remarked Richards.
Fortunately enough, his memory will unquestionably live on, among others through â??Fête: The first recording of traditional St. Martinâ??s festive musicâ??, released by the group in 1992 and the 2000 CD release of â??Classic Tanny & The Boys â?? String Band Music from St. Martinâ??, says Richards.