The steelband fraternity has lost a stalwart. Rudy Commissiong, who led the Esso Steel Band for 35 years , died in January at the age of 94. Under his leadership, the band produced eight albums and was a fixture in Bermuda for many decades. Commissiong began playing at 17 under the tutelage of TASPO member the late Ormond “Patsy Haynes.” The Royal Gazette of Bermuda has kindly permitted PanTalk to run its obit of February 5.
Blog Archive, March 2026
March 20, 2026
March 20, 2026
We’ve lost another pan icon. The Point Fortin musician who mashed up town with his energetic music for Solo Harmonites has gone to the ancestors. In the 1960s and ‘70s, Rodney, much like his contemporary Clive Bradley, arranged for both steel and traditional orchestras. He played and arranged with the Dutchy Brothers, and when Vincent Yip Young convinced him to join Harmonites he won them Panorama titles in 1968 1971 and 1972.
March 20, 2026
It’s hard to believe Dr. Len ‘Boogsie’ Sharpe hits 70 next week. He has kept his youthful exuberance, and his output remains undiminished. Boogsie has written more pan music than even Dr. Ray Holman, another icon who most influenced him.
We’re happy to see that his entry into the golden years will be marked by a 70th Birthday Jam and Party. At Phase II’s Woodbrook Pan Theatre, Boogsie’s cathedral of music, Exodus and Skiffle will join their host for what is sure to be a memorable celebration.