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I’ll Take You on a Musical Tour of the Caribbean Islands

with the 3 “B’s”

Harry Belafonte

One of the most successful Jamaican-American pop stars in history, he was dubbed the “King of Calypso”

Calypso and Soca

Calypso is a genre of Afro-Caribbean music that comes primarily from the island of Trinidad (though calypso is found throughout the Caribbean).

The Worldwide Popularity of Calypso Music

Calypso music became something of an international craze when Harry Belafonte first scored a major U.S. hit in 1956 with “Day-O” (the Banana Boat Song), a reworked version of a traditional Jamaican mento song. Belafonte later became an important figure in the folk revival of the 1960s, and although critics say his music was really a watered-down version of Calypso, he still deserves credit for popularizing the genre.

The Sound of Calypso Music

Because Trinidad was, over time, ruled by the British, the French and the Spanish, the African rhythms that form the roots of Calypso music blended with the European folk music of all of these places to give us the heavily rhythmic but still pleasantly melodic sound that we now recognize as Calypso.

Calypso is generally played on folk instruments, including the guitar, banjo and various types of percussion.

Calypso Lyrics

The lyrics of traditional Calypso music are generally quite political in nature, but because of strict censorship, are cleverly veiled. Calypso lyrics, in fact, are so carefully structured on events of the day that musical historians can date many of the traditional Calypso songs based on their lyrical content.

Jimmy Buffet

He is best known for his music, which often portrays an “island escapism” lifestyle.

Pop and Florribean

Buffett began calling his music “drunken Caribbean rock ‘n’ roll” as he says on his 1978 live album You Had To Be There. Later, Buffett himself and others have used the term “gulf and western” to describe his musical style and that of other similar-sounding performers.

The name derives from elements in Buffett’s early music including musical influence from country and western, along with lyrical themes from the Gulf Coast. A music critic described Buffett’s music as a combination of “tropical languor with country funkiness into what some have called the Key West sound, or gulf and western. Another is Pop and Floribbean.

Bob Marley

A Jamaican singer-songwriter who became an international musical and cultural icon, blending mostly reggae, ska, and rocksteady in his compositions.

Reggae

Reggae is a music genre that originated in Jamaica in the late 1960s. The term also denotes the modern popular music of Jamaica and its diaspora. A 1968 single by Toots and the Maytals, “Do the Reggay” was the first popular song to use the word “reggae,” effectively naming the genre and introducing it to a global audience. While sometimes used in a broad sense to refer to most types of popular Jamaican dance music, the term reggae more properly denotes a particular music style that was strongly influenced by traditional mento as well as American jazz and rhythm and blues, especially the New Orleans R&B practiced by Fats Domino and Allen Toussaint, and evolved out of the earlier genres ska and rocksteady. Reggae usually relates news, social gossip, and political comment. Reggae spread into a commercialized jazz field, being known first as ‘Rudie Blues’, then ‘Ska’, later ‘Blue Beat’, and ‘Rock Steady’. It is instantly recognizable from the counterpoint between the bass and drum downbeat, and the offbeat rhythm section. The immediate origins of reggae were in ska and rocksteady; from the latter, reggae took over the use of the bass as a percussion instrument.

Stylistically, reggae incorporates some of the musical elements of rhythm and blues, jazz, mento (a celebratory, rural folk form that served its largely rural audience as dance music and an alternative to the hymns and adapted chanteys of local church singing), calypso, African music, as well as other genres. One of the most easily recognizable elements is offbeat rhythms; staccato chords played by a guitar or piano (or both) on the offbeats of the measure. The tempo of reggae is usually slower paced than ska but faster than rocksteady. The concept of call and response can be found throughout reggae music.

My Music Playlists

My music playlist is extensive. It is at least 8 hours. I offer a tasty blend of vocals and instrumentals, for a quiet Meet & Greet or Cocktail Hour. I offer customized playlists for every occasion. My Musical Tour of the Caribbean, includes all the familiar covers, and originals.

My “Professional Sound” systems are “QSC” & “KRK”,  allowing your guests to converse in any venue

Click on the Music Styles below to see my Playlists

Calypso

  1. Banana Boat 
  2. Big Bamboo 
  3. Brown Skin Girl 
  4. Day – O 
  5. Farewell Jamaica 
  6. Island In The Sun 
  7. It’s A Small World 
  8. Jamaica Farewell 
  9. Jerico 
  10. John B Sail 
  11. Kiss the Girl 
  12. Man Smart    Woman Smarter 
  13. MaryAnn 
  14. Matilda 
  15. Rum & Coca-Cola 
  16. Shame Scandal In the Family
  17. Under The Mango Tree
  18. Under the Sea
  19. Who Lost the Banana
  20. Yellow Bird
  21. You Can’t Get

Pop

  1. Hey There Delilah
  2. Hotel California
  3. I Can See Clearly Now
  4. Land Down Under
  5. Sitting On Dock of the Bay
  6. Somewhere Over the Rainbow
  7. Summertime
  8. Under The Boardwalk
  9. Underneath It All

Latin

  1. Guantanamera
  2. Lambada
  3. Palo Palo
  4. Perfidía
  5. Rhythm is Gonna Get Ya
  6. Spanish Eyes
  7. Spanish Harlem

Smooth

  1. Bahama Cafe
  2. I Have a Dream
  3. Paradise Cove
  4. Sweet Coconut Milk

Floribbean

  1. A Place I Know
  2. Boat Drinks
  3. Brown Eyed Girl
  4. Dreamtime
  5. Grapefruit Juicy Fruit
  6. Guitars And Tiki Bars
  7. Little Bit Of Spice
  8. Margaritaville
  9. Ping Pong Symphony
  10. Something Right
  11. Volcano
  12. Walls Tumbling Down

Island

  1. Capture That Feeling
  2. Down To Rio
  3. Island Breeze
  4. No Big Ting

Romantic

  1. Amore Amore
  2. Blue Bayou
  3. I Can’t Help Falling In Love 
  4. I Just Called
  5. It Had to Be You
  6. Just the Two of Us
  7. Just The Way You Look
  8. Para Siempre
  9. Something Stupid
  10. Stuck On You
  11. You Would Be My Baby

Soca

  1. Hot Hot Hot
  2. La La Lay
  3. Say Say
  4. Sing In She Party
  5. Sugar Bum Bum
  6. Thunder
  7. Tiney Winey

Reggae

  1. Buffalo Soldier
  2. Could You Be Loved
  3. Don’t Rock My Boat
  4. Don’t Worry Be Happy
  5. Get Up, Stand Up
  6. Hold It Right There
  7. I Shot Sheriff
  8. Lively Up Yourself
  9. Need Your Love
  10. One Love
  11. Red Red Wine
  12. Three Little Birds
  13. Waiting In Vain

Somba

  1. Down To St. Croix
  2. Pump Me Up
  3. St Thomas

Wedding

  1. Amazing Grace
  2. Ave Maria
  3. Pachelbel’s Canon
  4. The Bridal Chorus
  5. Hawaiian Wedding Song
  6. Till There Was You
  7. Trumpet Voluntary
  8. Wedding March
  9. Wedding March *Island Style

Capt Dave – Panman

Steel Pan / Steel Drums
Musical Entertainer

Tour the Music of the Caribbean Islands with Me

INSIDE or OUTSIDE, I offer the perfect ambiance for your event. My “Musical Tour of the Caribbean”, includes all the familiar Calypsos, Reggae, “Floribbean” covers, and Originals. 

Musical Tour Itinerary: Trinidad – Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica, Antigua, Tortola, Puerto Rico, Aruba, St Croix, St Martin, St Thomas, Bahamas, Grand Cayman, Key West, Panama, Venezuela, Brazil, USA

I'm available for Club Events

I offer a tasty blend of vocals and instrumentals, for a quiet “Meet & Greet” or “Cocktail Hour”.

I arrive at least one hour early. 

My equipment easily fits in a 5’ x 5’ area.

Send me a Message

Click below to see and hear
Capt Dave play Steel Pans

I'm available for Parties and Special Events

I offer customized playlists for every occasion. I have specific music for Weddings, Birthdays, Romantic Dinners, etc.

My “Professional Sound” systems are “QSC” & “KRK”,  allowing your guests to converse in any venue

Choices of my Attire:
Master Captain’s Uniforms
Elegant Caribbean Shirts
Tuxedo 

Additional musicians, if you desire a combo

Send me a Message
YOU DESERVE the very best Caribbean Music

A big clean sound, without synthesized parts or “tracks”

Just actual recordings from  musicians I have recorded with, performed with, some worked for me, or I just admire. You will hear every part – Plus My Pans

MY MUSIC LIST is extensive, at least eight hours

THESE AUTHENTIC RECORDINGS are full-ranged

I’M VERY EXPERIENCED

MY Collection of very fine Pans were made by THE BEST! Pan Crafters Tom Reynolds, Ellie Mannette, and Cliff Alexis. *All made at my Fl residence(s).

What Is Pan Music?
Who is Live Pan For?

Every form of music has its own claim to fame as each musical piece varies in style, tone, pitch and the instrument used. Steel drums are a soothing and enjoyable listen, and have made a significant contribution to the richness of culture. The steel pan engages its audience in mind, body and spirit, ensuring that they are well relaxed in all aspects when listening to the rhythm of the notes and swaying in the gust of the exquisite Caribbean culture.

Steel Pan FAQ’s

What makes steel drum or steel pan music so unique?
Caribbean steel drum music undoubtedly differs from any other music in the world due to the evident fact that the instrument is played as percussion and is used as the voice and lyrics.
How did steel pans originate?
The steel drum or steel pan originated from the Caribbean island of Trinidad and Tobago and was created by slaves during the French Revolution. After having African percussion music banned, they decided to gather oil drums, frying pans, and dustbin lids to play music.
How are steel pan made?
They are built with sheet metal having a 0.8mm and 1.5mm thickness. The pans were previously made from used oil drums, but are now manufactured from metals using various specifications.
How are steel pans played?
Using a pair of specified rubber tipped straight wooden sticks; the pan is struck at different positions to play varied musical notes.
When is so good about steel pan music?
The sounds from the instrument are great for dancing and ‘getting into the groove’ as the pannists, steel drum players, do not play at a fast speed, instead they engage their audience with a  mid-tempo musical beat and style.

About Me

Master Captain, David A Naumann
Sarasota, FL

I am quickly approaching my 40th year on Steel Drums – Pan, my passion since the 70’s and my avocation since 1980’s.

I have performed for US President Ford, FL Governor Graham, NFL Coaches & Owners on several occasions, MLB Mgr Tony Lasorda’s Birthday parties.

My combos of 2 to 13 have performed 14 weeks a summer, for six summers at Disney World, Seaworld, and Busch Gardens. My “Sun Coast Steel Bands”, played six days a week, four hours a day, at Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Hotels. During that time, I worked with Byron Lee’s Dragonaires, The Merrymen, and Nassau Junkanoo Dancers. I taught multiple “Pan Workshops” with Tom Reynolds, Ellie Mannette, Ray Halman, Andy Narell, and many more.

In addition, we’ve played at many hotels, conventions, schools, universities, TPA – cruise ship promotion, multiple Florida State Fairs, Seaworld’s Florida Festival, Street Parties & House Band at Rosie O’Grady’s – Orlando, FL.

Email Me

Request a Free Quote for your Party or Special Event

Please let me know the details of your event, including the date and location, approximate number of guests and the approximate duration of your event. Please include your name and telephone number and if you would prefer a return call or an email reply. Thank you for your interest and I look forward to the possibility of working with you soon. Capt Dave
Request a Free Quote

Testimonials

“Capt Dave was amazing! He was the perfect touch to our bay side wedding. He was engaging and fun and I would highly recommend him. Capt Dave even learned some new music for our event! Thank you so much!!”

Kristin M

Saint Petersburg, FL

“Really a great entertainer! I received numerous comments from the folks attending the social about how much they enjoyed Capt Dave. I would not hesitate to hire and recommend him.” Cory K

Bradenton, FL

“We booked Capt. Dave for our Caribbean themed fundraising party. He arrived early, and was very cordial and professional. Not only did he start his wonderful music early, he played way beyond our contracted time and took no breaks! His equipment was top notch and filled our party room (170 people) with a variety of authentic island sounds. He loves what he does, and it shows as he entertained us. We all loved his dance tunes! We were very happy with the number of people that came to us after the event and asked us to have him back. We will! Needless to say, The event was a complete success, and was sold out. Thank you Captain Dave for a great and fun experience!” Arlene F

N. Fort Myers, FL

Local Music Venues

I perform a wide variety of Caribbean Music, from many islands I have visited, mixed with Floribbean & American Pop, my full sound, from recordings of the artists who have worked for me, I have worked with, &/or admire! They provide many originals and very unique arrangements. *MY PANS portray my story with these musicians.

Come and enjoy the music of the islands. You can currrently hear me play at these two awesome waterfront locations shown below… Thank you!

O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill

Beautiful Bay View, Entertainment every day & night 

Twice Weekly, Alternating Weeks, Year-Round 

Sundays, 5:00 – 9:00 pm
Tuesday, Noon – 3:00 pm

This breezy outpost offers casual food & drinks in an open-air, tropical-themed joint on the beach. It’s Awesome!

O'Leary's Tiki Bar and Grill

Nokomis Sunset Hut

Nokomis-Logo

”Seasonly” Twice Weekly
Friday’s   12:30 – 3:30 pm
Sunday’s 12:30 – 3:30 pm

Come down to Dona Bay and enjoy some of the best sunsets in Florida while you enjoy outside seating with one of our handcrafted cocktails or unique Caribbean food! We are easily accessible by boat and have a dock for simple parking! Our fantastic sunsets are complimented very well with nightly live music. Click here to check out our music schedule!

Fabulous Ambiance, Menu, Food, & Crew!!

Nokomis Sunset Hut

Your Next Party or Event

INSIDE or OUTSIDE, I am the PERFECT ambiance for your event. My “Musical Tour of the Caribbean”, includes all the familiar Calypsos, Reggae, “Floribbean” covers, and Originals.

The steel pan engages your audience in mind, body and spirit, ensuring that they are well relaxed in all aspects when listening to the rhythm of the notes and swaying in the gust of the exquisite Caribbean culture.

Send me an Email

Plan Your Next Event.
Set Your Date.
Book Capt Dave.
Reward Yourself!

Send Me an Email

Dave’s Steel Pan
Event FAQ’s

How extensive is your music play list?
MY MUSIC LIST is extensive, at least eight hours. I’m always arranging new tunes, and it would be a pleasure to arrange a tune for you. I “Pace” your music list, and will create the musical ambience of your choosing. I have pre-programmed musical mood sets, like “Easy Listening”, “Romantic Dinner”, “Hot Island Soca & Reggae”, “Poolside Classic Calypsos”, “Pure Pan”, “Latin Steel”, etc……..
Do you play at Weddings or Conventions?
Yes! For wedding events, I anticipate playing some traditional wedding music like “Pachelbel Canon in D”, but you will chose your own “Processional & Recessional”. It’s very common to upload specific Artists, Titles, or Cooperate Jingles to be ready, on cue. It’s not usual to change the musical mood as your event progresses.
Have you played extended contracts and return engagements?
Yes and with much success!

  • 1st High School Steel Band in Fl, 1978-Springstead
  • Royal Plaza Hotel, Lake Buena Vista Village
  • Palace Hotel, Lake Buena Vista Village
  • Viscount Hotel, Lake Buena Vista Village
  • Busch Gardens, “Pan Around the Neck”, TPA
  • Adventure Island, TPA
  • Adam’s Mark Caribbean Gulf Resort – Clearwater Beach
  • Strawberry Festivals, Plant City
  • Florida State Fairs, TPA
  • Parkers Lighthouse, Harbor Island
  • Rosie O’grady’s – Street Parties – Church Street, ORL
  • Rosie O’grady’s – Apple Annie’s – Church Street, ORL
  • Tommy Lasorda, BDay Parties, Dodgertown, Vero
  • Sea World’s Florida Festival, ORL
  • Grand Cypress Hotel, ORL
  • Siesta Key Beach, SRQ
  • Sand Castle Festivals, Treasure Island
Where are some of the special events that you've played?
  • U.S. President Gerald Ford, Harbor Island,TPA
  • Bob Hope –  Grand Opening “Marriott Seaworld”, ORL
  • Joe Theismann, Ret Washington Redskins, Enesbrook
  • Florida Governor Bob Graham, Harbor Island, TPA
  • NFL Super Bowl X, Coaches Party, TPA
  • The Merrymen – Barbados, trading sets, ORL
  • Byron Lee’s  Dragonaires- Jamaica, trading sets, ORL
  • JP Silver Stars Jr” Steel Band, trading sets, ORL
  • The United States Navy Steel Band, trading sets, ORL
  • Purdue University – “Band-O-Rama”, concert, Indiana
  • “C Ks” New Years Eve Party, TPA airport
  • Harbor Island Grand Opening, TPA
  • Junkanoo Dancers, Nassau, trading sets, ORL
  • “Tampa Showoffs”, TPA
  • Shephard’s Beach Bar, Clearwater Beach
  • Mel Tillis, opening act, Brooksville
  • Lawrence Welk’s Arthur Duncan Show, opening act, ORL
Have you played "solo" in the Sarasota Area?
Yes, and I’m available to play your next event!

  • “Weddings”, Venice & Sarasota
  •  “Bimini Restaurant”, Blackburn Point 
  • “Gilligan’s” Mother’s Day, Siesta Village
  • “Walt’s Fish House”, SRQ  
  • “St Armands Circle”, holiday events, and special promotions
  • “Marker 4” – Restaurant, Venice intercoastal  
  • “Gator Jim’s”, St Pete Beach 
  • The Christmas Boat Parade, Venice 
  • Many: Corporate, Charitable, Political, & Assisted Living Private Pools, Celebrations, & Receptions
Can you describe your typical performance routine?
I arrive 1 hour before “start”, load-in, setup, start ambiance music, freshen’ up, & wait for your que.

I “break” only when necessary, but when I do, my music continues seamlessly, beginning to end. And, a microphone is always available for you.

Additional considerations:

  • Parking: Easily accessible to load in & out.
  • Load In & Out: Require the ability to roll my gear from Truck to the Set
  • Space: 5′ x 5′ space is adequate, shaded, NO direct sunlight on the Pans!
  • Power: 110 volt AC, safely run, within 50′, 10′ – 20′ is best.
  • Stage Exit: If your “Event” extends beyond gig time, a discreet exit is nice.
  • Options: 9′ x 9′ Canopy, +$50 / Remote Power, 12V battery w Inverter, +$100.

Don’t Wait Any Longer.
Start Enjoying Capt Dave’s Steel Pan Music Today!