Experience the sound of Grand Bahama Island:
 

THE MUSIC
OF GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND

During Freeport's glory days, Grand Bahamian musicians made their living providing entertainment around the poolsides of hotels during the day and in the hotels' lounges at night.  Their repertoires were generally Calypso standards, and any other popular island songs that tourists favored.  They later moved their acts into discos and night clubs, or began putting on their own native shows, portraying the island's rich culture and heritage.

The so-called "father" of this musical trend in Grand Bahama was Gil Robinson of Eight Mile Rock. His outgoing personality and distinctive musical style influenced many aspiring musicians of his day, like Marvin Henfield, one of his most popular protégées. Henfield, a real showman, started singing with Robinson, at the tender age of 13 years, around the pool at the Country Club at Bahamia (formerly King's Inn). His versatile, witty style is reminiscent of Robinson's skill in working an audience and helped catapult him to the international arena, where he opened for many renowned entertainers.

Others who have put their distinctive stamp on the island's music and achieved international fame include Rose (Calypso Rose) Simmons; The T-Connection, currently performing abroad; Jay Mitchell, headlining at the Princess Casino; and Lil Joe Cartwright, the star attraction at Port Lucaya Marketplace several nights a week.  

Throughout your travels on the island, you will hear folksy melodies from some of our more colorful artists, which reflect the local view of life: Phil Stubbs, "The Cry of the Potcake;" the late Kai (Sir Kai) Gottleib, "Sweet Maria;" and the late Sonny Johnson, "They're in Freeport or They're in Jail". 

Different flavors of our island's music can be sampled at places like the Arawak Dining Room in Lucaya, where the Apple Elliot duo performs jazz tunes; at our casinos, which feature spectacular Vegas-style shows; and in our discos, where you can dance to international favorites.