THE MIGHTY SPARROW HAS DIED

Across the Caribbean and among his global fan base, the songs of the Mighty Sparrow have been blaring in tribute to the icon of Caribbean calypso culture, who passed away on Sunday, September 27th, at his home in New York.

Born in Grenada 91 years ago and taken to Trinidad and Tobago at an early age, the man who adopted the sobriquet The Mighty Sparrow became a trendsetter in the Caribbean art form of calypso/kaiso and its offshoot, soca.

With a monumental playlist of songs, most self-composed, Sparrow’s repertoire ranged from the raucous to the reflective, the comical to the contemplative, and the political to the party vibe.

Well into his advanced years, he was still churning them out, only slowed down by faltering health.

In recognition of his vast contribution and impact on Caribbean culture through calypso, Sparrow, also known as Birdie, was conferred with an honorary Doctorate of Letters by the University of the West Indies in 1987.

Not one to be overwhelmed by titles, except perhaps that of the Calypso King of the World - and multi-time calypso crown of his adopted home of Trinidad and Tobago, Sparrow immediately composed a popular song in typical double-entendre wit titled Dr Bird.

Sparrow was also awarded the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (ORTT) and the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC).

In a statement noting his passing, the CARICOM Secretariat said of Sparrow: “In a career spanning the Caribbean, Europe and the United States of America, for many decades the Mighty Sparrow entertained, educated and inspired audiences, promoting Caribbean culture in the global arena with lyrical brilliance. He penned over 500 calypsos, produced upwards of 70 albums, and secured numerous titles, including 10 Calypso Monarch crowns and eight Road March victories.

CARICOM extends its deepest condolences to his family, the governments and people of Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago, and all in the Caribbean and global community who mourn his passing. May his rich legacy continue to inspire future generations to preserve and promote Caribbean culture to the highest standards.”