By NORMAN ROLLE, Weekender Editor

norman@nasguard.com

Two years ago, after he became a born again Christian, he switched from secular to gospel music and released his first gospel album, 'Survivor.' And less than a year ago, he released his second gospel CD, 'Save Our Children.'

Late last year, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. Swain (Wendell Anthony Armbrister) passed Wednesday night at his home in Freeport at age 62.

Ronnie Armbrister, Vice-President of The Bahamas Musicians and Entertainers Union released the following statement: "Swain will be greatly missed as a musician and entertainer.

"A man who was able to take his audience from the 1950s to the 90s.

"He was very well respected and loved by his peers, who came out just this Tuesday and performed in a star-studded concert in aid of his medical expenses.

To his family, his wife, Patricia, we all love you but Jesus loves you best."

Cedric Munnings, President of Chris Fox Music Institute and former manager of The Mighty Makers, where it all began for Swain, offered the following comments: "I am saddened to hear of the passing of Swain.

He was one of many who got their start in music and entertainment in the Mighty Makers Organisation.

He has done his part in raising the standard of music in The Bahamas and has moved on to his greater reward."

On the flip side of his Survivor CD jacket, Swain made this acknowledgement: "First I would like to give thanks to Almighty God for his many blessings, grace and mercy for giving me health and strength to finish this project, my first gospel CD.

"Thanks to my pastor and friend, Bishop Godfrey R. Williams for his help, support and encouragement in this effort."

It was a long and eventful journey for Swain, from Murphy Town, Abaco, where he was born, to New Providence, where he learned the drums, developed his vocals and formed the popular group Swain and the Citations. He moved to Freeport in 1974, did stints at the Casino at Princes Towers, at Safari Lounge and at WRLX.

The band disbanded in 2002, after he became a born again Christian. He then joined the choir of St John's Jubilee, formerly St John's Baptist Church.

His last secular album, 'Here's To A Lady' was released in 2003. Fans will remember his popular song 'Sandra, Don't Make Me Suffer."

Athama Bowe, a friend described him as a suave crowd-pleaser: "Swain was one of the better dresser among his peers.

He had an outstanding voice and a way with his audience." Swain is survived by his wife, Patricia, and children.