This is a brilliant article about my husband Erskine by Winston D Munnings, Former Diplomat, Journalist and Photographer. Check out his "About" at "Winston's Caribbean Chronicle" (link below).
ℬ𝒶𝒽𝒶𝓂𝒾𝒶𝓃 𝒮𝓅ℴ𝓉𝓁𝒾ℊ𝒽𝓉:
𝕄𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝔸 𝕋𝕣𝕦𝕖! 𝕋𝕣𝕦𝕖! 𝔹𝕒𝕙𝕒𝕞𝕚𝕒𝕟:
𝕄𝕣. 𝔼𝕣𝕤𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕖 𝕂𝕟𝕠𝕨𝕝𝕖𝕤
by Winston D. Munnings
Erskine Knowles was born and raised on Long Island, one of the serene islands in the Southern Bahamas, where the rhythms of island life influenced his musical journey from an early age. He began his foray into music at the age of fifteen, initially picking up the guitar. However, his musical roots trace back to his childhood, where he occasionally played a small drum. His curiosity and passion for music led him to explore the accordion as well, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
In 1965, Erskine made his debut in the vibrant local music scene by performing with his band, "The Invaders," at the historic Lisbon Club on Bay Street in downtown Nassau. This venue was known for its lively atmosphere and became a favorite spot not just for locals but also for tourists eager to experience the pulsating rhythms of Bahamian music. The band played at various parties and events around the island, captivating audiences with their energetic performances.
Throughout his life, Erskine has jammed with a diverse array of musicians across the Caribbean and beyond. His travels have taken him to iconic venues such as the Calypso Lounge in Miami Beach, where he collaborated with a talented group from the Caribbean, fostering a rich exchange of musical traditions. He also found himself performing on a cruise ship bound for England, where he entertained returning teachers, and in the rugged landscapes of Scotland, playing alongside lumberjacks in local taverns.
Adding to his eclectic
experiences, Erskine has graced numerous pubs in Exeter, Devon, and frequented
the renowned former nightclub “The Buzz,” which later transformed into Crazy
Johnny's Rock & Roll Club on East Bay Street, Nassau. Each of these
experiences contributed to his musical evolution, allowing him to weave
together a tapestry of sounds and influences that reflect both his Bahamian
roots and his adventurous spirit.
