Slinger Francisco, Calypso singer known as the Mighty Sparrow, dies at 91

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Set us as preferred “King of Calypso” Slinger Francisco, also known as the Mighty Sparrow, died in New York on Sunday at 91 following a brief illness, according to his daughter, Karen Francisco.“He was an institution in the entertainment industry, well admired for his skill and finesse as a singer, songwriter and mentor; beloved by many.He was also a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, life partner and friend,” Karen wrote in a Facebook post.

“He died peacefully surrounded by family.” Born on July 9, 1935, in Grand Roy, Grenada, Slinger moved with his family to Trinidad when he was 1 year old, according to his official biography.In the 1960s he moved to New York City, his home for the remainder of his life.

He would eventually write more than 500 songs and record more than 70 albums.His notable hits include “Mr.

Walker,” “Obeah Wedding,” “Congo Man,” “Phillip, My Dear,” “The Slave” and “Saltfish.” He also recorded a collaboration with Jamaican musician Byron Lee, “Only a Fool Breaks His Own Heart,” a hit in the U.K.and Netherlands, spending 27 weeks on the charts and peaking at No.

2 in 1978.Ainsley King, president of the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO), a nonprofit that represents over 600 Calypso artists, honored Birdie, as the singer was also known, in a statement.“I recognise Sparrow as a giant whose contribution cannot be measured by awards, titles or recordings alone,” King wrote.

“Through his music, he gave voice to the humour, struggles, politics, relationships, social realities and everyday experiences of Caribbean people.His songwriting, delivery, wit and stage presence set standards that generations of calypsonians continue to study and admire.

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