Barbados
In Plenty and In Time of Need
1966
1966
Irving Burgie
C. Van Roland Edwards
✝ God / Faith 🤝 Unity 🌅 Hope 💪 Resilience |
Context
Written by Irving Burgie, a Barbadian-American songwriter, with music by C. Van Roland Edwards. The anthem was adopted upon independence from the United Kingdom on November 30, 1966. Burgie is also famous for writing several of Harry Belafonte's biggest calypso hits, including 'Day-O (Banana Boat Song).'
Lyrics
In plenty and in time of need
When this fair land was young
Our brave forefathers sowed the seed
From which our pride is sprung,
A pride that makes no wanton boast
Of what it has withstood,
That binds our hearts from coast to coast,
The pride of nationhood.
Translations are non-official and intended to convey meaning, not replace originals
Interesting facts
- • Irving Burgie, the lyricist, also wrote 'Day-O (Banana Boat Song)' and several other calypso classics performed by Harry Belafonte
- • Barbados became a republic on November 30, 2021, removing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state, but the anthem remained unchanged
- • The anthem's restrained tone contrasts with many other anthems; it emphasizes quiet pride and resilience rather than military glory