RADHICA DE SILVA
Senior Multimedia Reporter
The Mighty Sparrow may have passed, but the calypso fraternity is insisting that the art form he helped shape, popularise and carry around the world will live on.
As tributes continue to pour in for Dr Slinger “Mighty Sparrow” Francisco, calypsonians and cultural figures across Trinidad and Tobago are using his death to reaffirm the enduring place of calypso in the nation’s cultural identity.
Sparrow, who died on Sunday at the age of 91, was remembered at San Fernando City Hall yesterday, where a condolence book has been opened for members of the public to sign.
Speaking to Guardian Media, San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris said Sparrow’s passing should strengthen efforts to introduce young people to the art form.
“Calypso is the grandfather of hip-hop,” Parris said, stressing the need to educate young people about its importance.
For TUCO chairman and veteran calypsonian Steve Pascall, better known as Ras Kommanda, Sparrow’s legacy demonstrates why calypso cannot die.
“Sparrow was unique. He was a consummate entertainer,” Pascall said. “He was more than a political commentator. He was more than a social commentator. He was an entertainer.”
Pascall said Sparrow’s death had given added significance to Calypso History Month, which begins today.
He urged the public to ensure the art form remained part of everyday life, encouraging families to listen to calypso and schools to teach its history.
“By calypso, our stories are told,” he said.
Hummingbird Gold national awardee and Kaisoca Moko Jumbies founder Junior Bisnath said Sparrow’s name would remain synonymous with the genre.
“When you talk about calypso, you talk about the Mighty Sparrow,” Bisnath said.
“There is no other calypsonian, in my point of view, who can really entertain like the Mighty Sparrow.”
Bisnath said Sparrow’s legacy would live on “as long as there is calypso”.
A 10-foot musical note and a banner documenting Sparrow’s career, including his Road March and Calypso King victories, were also unveiled. The banner is to be displayed at the Calypso and Folk Museum on Henry Street, San Fernando.
Meanwhile, at Rhythm and Brews Cafe at Gulf City Mall, patrons also paid tribute through music, celebrating Sparrow’s voice, music and spirit.
Joel John, who performed during the tribute, said Sparrow’s death should also serve as a reminder to honour the country’s cultural icons while they are still alive.
“We just need to learn to pay tribute to them while they’re still here,” John said.
He said Sparrow may be gone, but the music and the stories he helped make part of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity will continue.
