Calypso icon Mighty Sparrow dies at 91

Slinger Francisco, known as the Mighty Sparrow, died Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, in New York at age 91 after a brief illness, surrounded by family. Daughter Karen Francisco announced: "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 he "made his election sure by giving his heart to the Most High, Jesus Christ" and was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist faith in his final days. Born in 1935 in Grand Roy, Grenada, he moved to Trinidad as an infant. His 1956 song "Jean and Dinah" brought his first Calypso King title. He became an eight-time Calypso Monarch and multiple Road March champion over more than seven decades and hundreds of recordings, with songs including "Slave," "Melda (Obeah Wedding)," "Congo Man," "Dan Is The Man," and "Saltfish." A contemporary of Lord Kitchener, he helped carry calypso to a world stage and received the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, the Chaconia Medal, and an OBE. Stuart Young called him "a true legend" as tributes poured in across the Caribbean. Rated coverage was limited to two left-leaning outlets; no center or right-rated coverage was found. Arrangements for a public celebration of his life are expected to be announced.