By St. Paul’s News Team
September 27 2026 | Music
Trinidad and Tobago’s calypso fraternity is mourning the death of one of its most iconic sons, Slinger Francisco, better known to the world as the Mighty Sparrow, who died peacefully in New York at the age of 91.
His family announced his passing in a statement, saying the legendary 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.
His death marks the passing of a towering figure in Caribbean cultural history. For generations, the Mighty Sparrow’s name was synonymous with calypso, while his music captured the social and political realities of Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean.
Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, in a tribute to the Mighty Sparrow, told St. Paul’s Weekly News, “He was simply the best. I grew up on his music and even now it serves as a balm whenever I retreat to private moments of reflection of my father. Daddy, without doubt, was Sparrow’s biggest fan ever. I am satisfied with being number 2. Rest in peace maestro. Thanks for your contributions to our Caribbean civilization.”
