Slinger Francisco, better known by his stage name "Mighty Sparrow", has passed away. As reported by Billboard, he was 91 years old.
His daughter, Karen, released a
"He was an institution in the entertainment industry," she continued. "...[He was] well admired for his skill and finesse as a singer, songwriter and mentor; beloved by many - he was also a husband, father, grandfather, life partner and friend."
She went on to explain the circumstances of his death. "He died peacefully surrounded by family on September 27, 2026 where he succumbed from a brief illness in New York." They added that, before his passing, he had been "baptized in the Seventh Day Adventist faith".
Fans knew The Mighty Sparrow for his genre-defining calypso music. He was a multi-Calypso King and Road March winning artist, with his classics "High Cost Of Living" and "Jean And Dinah" being among his most well-known tracks.
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Tributes Poured in for the Genre-Defining Calypso Artist
Tributes have poured in for the calypso legend.
Caribbean music legends have expressed their condolences for the calypso star. King of Soca Machel Montano said, "Sparrow provided me with opportunities, gave me his platform, and literally took me under his wing and direction many times over, and for this I am eternally grateful. I will miss his wit, his sweet voice and smile."
Fans also commented on Karen's post on social media in order to express their condolences. "While we as a nation lost an icon, you lost your daddy," one wrote. "Stay strong my friend."
Another wrote, "My deepest condolences to you and your family, he will be grately missed one of the greatest icon in the calypso industry. A pioneer in paving the way forward for what is know to be soca music, in Trinidad and Tobago. May is soul rest in peace."
This is a truly unimaginable loss for the calypso community, and the wider Caribbean music scene. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. May he rest in peace.
