Calypso legend Mighty Sparrow dead at 91

The Mighty Sparrow has died at the age of 91.

The legendary calypsonian died peacefully in New York on Sunday following a brief illness, surrounded by loved ones.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Trinidad and Tobago's Calypso icon, Slinger Francisco, known to the world as The Mighty Sparrow," the singer's family shared in a statement.

"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."

Sparrow, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Caribbean music, enjoyed a career spanning more than seven decades. He became internationally known for his distinctive voice, sharp wit, and social and political commentary.

Born in 1935 in Grenada, he moved to Trinidad as a young child, where his energetic stage performances earned him the nickname Little Sparrow. He later changed that to the Mighty Sparrow.

Sparrow emerged as one of Trinidad and Tobago's leading calypsonians in the mid-1950s. In 1956, he won the Calypso Monarch for Jean and Dinah, his first major hit that addressed the social changes that followed the closure of US military bases in Trinidad.

He went on to become one of calypso's most decorated performers, winning Trinidad and Tobago's Calypso Monarch title eight times. He also won the Calypso King of Kings competition twice, in 1985 and 1988.

Known by many as the Calypso King of the World, Sparrow was regarded as a mentor and inspiration to successive generations of Caribbean performers.

Birdie, as the singer was also affectionately known, recorded hundreds of songs over the course of his career. He performed all over the world, including at New York City's Madison Square Garden.