The National Anthem of Barbados
In Plenty and in time of need
When this fair land was young
Our great Forefathers sowed the seed from which our pride is sprung
A pride that makes no wanton boast
Of what it has withstood
But binds our hearts from Coast to Coast
The Pride of Nationhood.
Chorus:
We loyal Sons and Daughters
All DO hereby make it known
These fields and hills beyond recall
Are now our very own.
We write our names on History’s page
With expectations great
Strict guardians of our Heritage
Firm Craftsmen of our Fate.
The Lord has been the People’s guide
For past three hundred years
and With Him at the People’s side
We have no doubt or fears.
Upward and Onward we shall go
Inspired Exulting Free
And greater will our Nation grow
In Strength and Unity.
The following is copied from Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
The Music
The music for the National Anthem was composed by Mr. C. Van Roland Edwards, who was born in 1912. Though he had no formal training in music al composition, he was a composer of some renown.
A committee which comprised Mr. Bruce St. John, Mr. Frank Collymore, Mrs. Enid Lynch, Mr. George Lamming, Mr. Gerald Hudson and Mr. John Fletcher was appointed to oversee the selection of the National Anthem. Mr. Edwards was awarded $500.00 for his efforts.
In 1967 the music of the National Anthem was re-arranged. This work was undertaken by Inspector Prince Cave of the Royal Barbados Police Band. The Anthem was given a more sustained harmony while at the same time retaining the original tune.
Mr. Edwards died on 22 April 1985.
Click here to view the musical score of the National Anthem of Barbados
The Lyrics
The Lyrics of the National Anthem of Barbados were written by Mr. Irving Burgie who was born in Brooklyn, New York, USA of a Barbadian mother and American father. Mr. Burgie has composed works for ‘Ballad for Bimshire’ and ‘Island in the Sun’, and has also written for a number of internationally famous artistes. Among his works is ‘The West Indian Song Book’.
Mr. Burgie has died, age 95, on the 29 November 2019. He was a Star.
The Anthem was given a new arrangement by well known award-winning Barbadian jazz musician Nicholas Brancker. The arrangement keeps all of the former musical solemnity while underlaying it with a Barbadian/Caribbean beat. However remember that the original classical version is the one still used as the officially recognized National Anthem of Barbados.
Another newer orchestral arrangement, by Stefan Walcott (November2020), which may not be as stirring is still rather quietly moving. Here it is:
beautifulbarbadosblog 