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Bye-bye, Birdie: The Calypso King of the World dies at 91

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 28/09/2026, 17:45:24 UTC.

Briefings

Calypso legend Slinger Francisco, known professionally as The Mighty Sparrow, died at age 91 in New York following a brief illness. Born in a Grenadian fishing village in 1935, he emigrated to Trinidad in his infancy and became a dominant figure in Caribbean music, winning the Carnival Road March competition eight times between 1956 and 1984. His work is characterized by a blend of sophisticated storytelling, social commentary, and political wit, earning him the title of the 'Calypso King of the World.'

Key points

• Slinger Francisco, professionally known as The Mighty Sparrow, died at age 91 in New York after a brief illness on September 27, 2026, following a long career in calypso music.
• He was born in a Grenadian fishing village in 1935 and emigrated to Trinidad as an infant, where he rose to become the undisputed Calypso King of the World through a combination of velvety voice, songwriting, and political commentary.

Context and limitations

Coverage is limited to the obituary details provided by the daughter Karen and the article's summary of his life and career achievements.

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