Not a Blade of Grass Guyana Lyrics
Guyanese music plays a significant role in preserving the cultural heritage of the country. The song “Not a Blade of Grass” holds a special place in the Guyanese musical landscape, embodying the traditions and stories of generations.
This content will delve into the lyrics of the song and explore its cultural significance.
Lyrics to “Not a Blade of Grass Guyana”
The full lyrics of the song “Not a Blade of Grass, Guyana” by Dave Martins are as follows:
[Verse 1]
We are a peaceful people
Struggle as we struggle
And we don’t look for trouble
Just ask around
But when outside faces
From foreign places
Talk about taking over
We ain’t backing down
[Chorus]
We ain’t giving up no mountains
We ain’t giving up no tree
We ain’t giving up no river
That belongs to we
Not one blue saki
Not one rice grain
Not one kuras
Not a blade of grass
[Verse 2]
This land is all I know
We’re going to make it somehow
We will bend like a bow
But never break
Our fathers came here
And they lived and died here
And we ain’t moving nowhere
Make no mistake
[Chorus]
‘Cause we ain’t giving up no mountains
We ain’t giving up no tree
We ain’t giving up no river
That belongs to we
Not one blue saki
Not one rice grain
Not one kuras
Not a blade of grass
[Verse 3]
We love the open country
Of the Rupununi
And the Essequibo
Daytime or night
Though we may criticize it
This is our home we love it
And we need to keep it
We have that right
[Chorus]
So we ain’t giving up no mountains
We ain’t giving up no tree
We ain’t giving up no river
That belongs to we
Not one blue saki
Not one rice grain
Not one kuras
Not a blade of grass
[Chorus]
So we ain’t giving up no mountains
We ain’t giving up no tree
We ain’t giving up no river
That belongs to we
Not one blue saki
Not one rice grain
Not one kuras
Not a blade of grass
The song reflects the deep connection Guyanese people have with the land and the reliance on natural elements for sustenance. It highlights the vital role of rain in the agricultural practices of Guyana.
Cultural significance of “Not a Blade of Grass”
“Not a Blade of Grass” holds cultural and historical significance in Guyana. The song originated in the early days of colonization when Guyanese people faced challenges in cultivating the land. It represents the resilience and perseverance of the Guyanese people and their ability to adapt to the environment.
The song also reflects Guyana’s collective memory and serves as a reminder of the country’s agricultural roots. It captures the essence of Guyanese identity and the harmonious relationship between the land and its people.
Preservation and promotion of Guyanese music
Preserving traditional Guyanese songs and their lyrics is crucial for safeguarding Guyana’s cultural heritage. Some ways to promote and celebrate Guyanese music include:
- Recording and archiving traditional songs for future generations
- Organizing cultural events and festivals that feature Guyanese music
- Integrating Guyanese music in educational curricula to pass it on to younger generations

By actively engaging with and promoting Guyanese music, we can ensure its preservation and continued appreciation. Here are a few more strategies:
- Collaborating with local musicians and artists to create contemporary interpretations of traditional Guyanese songs.
- Encouraging community involvement through workshops, music lessons, and cultural exchange programs.
- Utilizing digital platforms and social media to share Guyanese music and lyrics with a wider audience, both locally and internationally.
Conclusion
“Not a Blade of Grass” is a powerful representation of Guyana’s cultural heritage and the deep connection between its people and the land. By exploring the lyrics and understanding the cultural significance of traditional Guyanese songs like this, we can preserve and celebrate the rich musical legacy of Guyana.
Let us embrace and share the beauty of Guyanese music, ensuring that it continues to resonate with future generations.
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