I join the local cultural community and his many fans around the world in mourning the passing of Culture Warrior, Bahamian Icon and patriot and a giant of a man, the inimitable Franklin “Count Bernadino” Ellis. He had lived a full life at 92 years old.

A native of Nornam’s Castle, Abaco Count Bernadino honed his musical skills in the night clubs of Nassau and Jamaica before his big break came in 1947 after relocating to New York. Working in a restaurant as a dishwasher, Count would entertain customers during his breaks, perform with other Caribbean musicians and even enrolled with them at the New York School of Music.

It was his tour of the United States with his Bacannals Band that exposed his considerable musical gifts to a broader audience and a loyal following outside The Bahamas.

Upon his return to The Bahamas in the mid 1950's, Count continued his night club act and was recruited by the then Development Board of The Bahamas, now The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, to tour internationally with the motive of promoting our tourism product.

Count was a Culture Ambassador par excellence and an original.

Noted for his hearty laugh, infectious smile and quick wit, Mr. Ellis recorded a body of work that has chronicled the changing times and captured the essence of Bahamian culture and sensibility - be it our history, our women, our food, the reality of aging and even the inevitability of death.

Whether it was Christopher Columbus returning each year as a ghost; or losing his heart to the girl from the eastern part; whether it was enjoying some conch, peas and rice and guava duff; or being buried deep with two bottles of whiskey at his feet with six young girls across his chest, Count addressed each theme with his unique wit, charm and comedic levity. He was a poetic and musical genius for sure.

“Fox Hill Gal,” “Once is not enough” and the more recent “Age ain’t nothing but a number,” a duet with the iconic Ronnie Butler, have become Bahamian favourites spanning generations.

Count Bernadino was granted a Cacique Award and is known for his famous song Calypso Bacchanal which was recorded in 1962 and played throughout the hotels of Nassau during the time.

My condolences go out to his wife, Juanita and children, Joel, Mia and Nita who followed him into the entertainment industry and to his extended family.

May his soul rest in peace.