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Mighty sparrow passes on - chairman - 09-27-2026
Calypso icon Mighty Sparrow dies at 91
Trinidad and Tobago's calypso fraternity is mourning the loss of one of its most celebrated figures, Slinger Francisco, the legendary performer known worldwide as the Mighty Sparrow.
Sparrow died peacefully in New York on Sunday at the age of 91, according to a statement released by his family. They said the revered calypsonian succumbed to a brief illness and was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Trinidad and Tobago's Calypso icon, Slinger Francisco, known to the world as 'The Mighty Sparrow'," the family said.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest calypsonians in history, Sparrow enjoyed a career that spanned decades and played a pivotal role in shaping and elevating calypso on the international stage.
Renowned for his powerful voice, masterful songwriting, sharp wit and commanding stage presence, he produced an extensive catalogue of music that explored social issues, politics, culture, relationships and everyday life.
Beyond his musical achievements, Sparrow was admired as a mentor and inspiration to generations of performers. His influence extended far beyond Trinidad and Tobago, earning him lasting respect and admiration throughout the Caribbean and the wider world.
The family remembered him not only as an entertainer, but as a devoted family man and friend.
"He was also a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, life partner and friend," the statement said.
They also revealed that Sparrow embraced Christianity in his final days, saying he had "made his election sure" by giving his life to Jesus Christ and being baptised into the Seventh-day Adventist faith.
His passing marks the end of an era for Trinidad and Tobago's cultural landscape. For generations, Sparrow's name became synonymous with calypso, and his music often reflected the social and political realities of the nation and the wider Caribbean.
As news of his death spreads, tributes are expected to pour in for a man whose artistry, influence and enduring legacy helped define Caribbean music and culture for more than half a century.
Source: T&T Guardian/September 27, 2026
#newsroomguyana #calypso #mightysparrow #caribbeanmusic
PNCR/ APNU EXPRESSION OF SYMPATHY ON THE PASSING OF THE MIGHTY SPARROW
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, friends, colleagues and countless admirers of the legendary calypsonian, Slinger Francisco, affectionately known throughout the world as the Mighty Sparrow.
The Caribbean and the wider music world have lost one of their most extraordinary cultural ambassadors.
For generations, the Mighty Sparrow used calypso not merely as entertainment, but as a powerful vehicle for storytelling, social commentary, humour, history and cultural expression. Through his extraordinary talent, distinctive voice and fearless creativity, he carried the music and culture of Trinidad and Tobago to audiences across the Caribbean and around the world.
His remarkable body of work transcended national boundaries and generations. Sparrow became an enduring symbol of Caribbean creativity and the immense contribution of our region to world music. His music chronicled the experiences, aspirations, struggles and triumphs of Caribbean people, while his artistry helped establish calypso as a respected and influential musical form internationally.
The Mighty Sparrow's passing is therefore not only a profound loss to his family and Trinidad and Tobago, but to the entire Caribbean and the global music community.
Guyana shares a special cultural kinship with Trinidad and Tobago, and generations of Guyanese have enjoyed and cherished Sparrow's music. His songs and performances formed part of the soundtrack of Caribbean life and contributed significantly to the shared cultural heritage that binds our peoples together.
We recognise and salute the extraordinary legacy of a man who spent decades entertaining, challenging, educating and inspiring audiences. Although he has taken his final bow, the Mighty Sparrow's voice will continue to resonate through the generations.
At this time of profound loss, we pray that Almighty God will grant strength, comfort and peace to his family and loved ones, and that the people of Trinidad and Tobago will find solace in the remarkable legacy he leaves behind.
May the soul of Slinger Francisco, the Mighty Sparrow, rest in eternal peace.
The PNCR and APNU extend solidarity and deepest sympathy to the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago, the calypso fraternity, the music industry and Sparrow's countless fans throughout the Caribbean and the world.
RE: Mighty sparrow passes on - Berbice Babu - 09-27-2026
The GOAT is gone