Remembering Aurelio Martinez, a True Parandero

Aurelio Martinez, a name synonymous with Paranda music, has left an indelible mark on Garifuna culture. With his soulful melodies and expressive lyrics, Martinez has not only preserved but also elevated the rich traditions of the Garifuna people. From the vibrant rhythms of his acoustic guitar to the heartfelt stories woven into his songs, Aurelio’s music transcends borders, resonating with audiences worldwide. His collaborations with fellow Garifuna legends like Andy Palacio and Paul Nabor, along with his partnership with Stone Tree Records, have brought international recognition to this unique genre. In tonight’s special edition of Kolcha Tuesday, we examine the legacy of Aurelio Martinez, a true cultural ambassador whose contributions will forever inspire and uplift the Garifuna community.

 

Aurelio Martinez, Garifuna Artist

“So Garifuna music is a special music.  This culture comes from a special mix with African people and Arawak Indians on a Caribbean island, St. Vincent.  From this mix comes a new culture, Garifuna culture, Garifuna community. It was declared by UNESCO as an intangible patrimony of humanity.”

 

The soulful sounds of acoustic guitars, maracas, Garifuna drums, and other percussion instruments are the signature elements of Aurelio Martinez’s Paranda music. These instruments are the heart and soul of his craft, defining the unique and captivating rhythms that have made him a celebrated artist.

 

Ivan Duran, Producer, Stone Tree Records

“It’s indescribable… He is there and I really commend him because he is the most professional Garifuna artist I’ve ever had the privilege to work with.  He is the most complete, and again, if he were to stop making music tomorrow, he would still be one of the greatest and it’s because at the human level what Aurelio represents is something that doesn’t happen very often.”

 

Paranda is a genre that fuses traditional Garifuna rhythms with Latin and Spanish influences, crafting a unique sound that’s both rhythmic and melodic. Andy Palacio, Paul Nabor, and Aurelio Martinez are among the standout artists who have catapulted Paranda music to international fame, highlighting its rich cultural heritage and fascinating storytelling traditions.

 

Ivan Duran

“Music has no borders like Yalifu, the pelican song that Aurelio wrote.  Music has no borders and people have no borders, feelings have no borders and if you make music that touches you, that’s all we care [about].”

 

Aurelio wasn’t just a leading figure in Garifuna music; he was also a prominent artist across Latin America. In 2017, he teamed up with Stone Tree Records to release Darandi, Garifuna for thirty, celebrating three decades of Paranda. His best and most personal songs on the compilation album were Dugu and Naguya Nei, in honor of Andy Palacio and Paul Nabor.

 

Aurelio Martinez, Garifuna Artist

“I introduced this special song as a tribute to my good friend who passed away, my first friend from Belize, Andy Palacio.  And the other one Naguya Nei because Paul Nabor, for me, was my grandpa, my dad, and Naguya Nei was very easy for other people around the world to repeat, “Lau ba la banda habunana.”  In Japan, the UK, a few days ago in Australia, I made people sing the song easily, and people started to sing with me everywhere.”

 

Paranda music often delves into social commentary and the struggles faced by the Garifuna community, with lyrics that weave heartfelt stories and convey deep emotions. Unlike the upbeat rhythms of Punta, Paranda is known for its slower pace, soulful melodies, and reflective themes.

 

Ivan Duran

“This sound belongs to a group of dedicated people, both in the studio and on the stage, who have committed their lives and feel a pride for each note, and each sound, and each effect, and each image that it’s indescribable.”

 

Isani Cayetano for News Five.