Mighty Sparrow, Caribbean calypso legend, dies at 91

Mighty Sparrow obituary: calypso legend who helped define Caribbean music Remember his six-decade legacy, classic songs and lasting influence today

Mighty Sparrow, the Grenadaborn musician who helped bring calypso to a wider audience starting in the 1950s, has died at the age of 91. Born Slinger Francisco, he died peacefully in New York after a brief illness, according to a family statement. His family described him as a singer, songwriter and mentor who was widely admired for his influence on Caribbean music and culture. Raised in Trinidad and Tobago, Sparrow recorded hundreds of songs over a career that lasted more than six decades. His bestknown work included songs such as Jean and Dinah, Congo Man and Mr. Walker, and leaders across the Caribbean paid tribute to his legacy.