Mighty Sparrow, calypso legend, dies at 91

The Mighty Sparrow, the calypso icon whose real name was Slinger Francisco, died peacefully in New York on Sunday at age 91, his family announced. He had been ill briefly before his death and was surrounded by loved ones at the time.

Born in Grenada, Sparrow became one of the artform's most celebrated figures, winning the Trinidad and Tobago Calypso Monarch title in 1956 with the hit song Jean and Dinah, also known as Yankees Gone. His career spanned decades and produced a vast catalogue of music that addressed social issues, politics, relationships and daily Caribbean life.

Among his best-known early works were Carnival Boycott, Kennedy and Khrushchev, No Money No Love, and Mr Walker. He also recorded a song titled Sparrow Dead, which exemplified the wit and social commentary that defined his artistry. His powerful voice, sharp songwriting and commanding stage presence made him a dominant force in shaping calypso's global reach.

Beyond his musical legacy, Sparrow mentored generations of performers and became a cultural ambassador for Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean. His family described him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. In his later years, he embraced Christianity, joining the Seventh-day Adventist faith and being baptised.