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Barbadians, through an inspiring book about veteran musician Sir Emile Straker, have been given an insider’s look at his life and stardom.
The book, “My Island and Me” was launched at Ilaro Court during the Night of Prose, Poetry and Performance hosted by the National Cultural Foundation.
Sir Emile, who was the lead singer of the hit band The Merry Men produced masterful lyrics in his time putting Barbados on the map in the music industry.
His contributions were recognised as tributes were made from a wide cross section of the community his music touched.
Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley while reminiscing on her younger years, says there was more local music played then.
She remembers times buying records of Sir Emile’s music and the joy the music brought.
Ms. Mottley says many don’t appreciate the socio-cultural history of the region has largely been captured through the lyrics of our music.
Sir Emile’s grandson Copeland Straker says his grandfather’s music transcended generations, noting his lifetime of work was to make people happy.
He says Sir Emile was more than an international entertainer.
