Sparrow at 90

Today, the Caribbean and the wider musical world celebrate a historic milestone, as The Mighty Sparrow (Slinger Francisco) marks his 90th birthday.

Born in Grenada in 1935 and raised in Trinidad from age one, Sparrow’s name is synonymous with calypso. His sharp wit, dazzling stage presence, and masterful lyrics earned him the well-deserved title of “Calypso King of the World.”

Sparrow’s towering contribution to music, culture, and social commentary has shaped the soundscape of the Caribbean for more than seven decades.

Growing up in Port-of-Spain, Sparrow was surrounded by the vibrant cultural life of the city, where calypso music thrived in calypso tents, street performances, and Carnival celebrations.

From an early age, he displayed a love for music and performance. He sang in his school’s choir at Newtown Boys’ RC School and it was there he developed his vocal strength and sense of rhythm.

As a teenager, he began singing calypso informally at community events and neighbourhood gatherings. His stage name, The Mighty Sparrow, reportedly emerged because of his lively energy and animated performances, much like the small but feisty bird.

Sparrow’s formal entry into calypso came in the early 1950s, when he started performing in calypso tents. His first significant break came in 1956, when he was crowned Calypso King with his hit “Jean and Dinah.”

That victory set Sparrow on a path to become one of the most influential figures in calypso. Throughout his prolific career, he released scores of albums and composed hundreds of calypsoes that chronicled the social, political, and cultural currents of the Caribbean. His repetoire spans humorous pieces, romantic ballads, and hard-hitting commentaries on issues ranging from colonialism and politics to morality and migration. Songs like Congo Man, Melda, Sparrow Dead, Slave and Education exemplify his ability to blend entertainment with incisive social critique. Read More