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PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – Legendary calypsonian Slinger Francisco, better known as the Mighty Sparrow, has died at the age of 91. His family said the Grenada-born, Trinidad-raised performer 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 family said in a statement. Sparrow, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Caribbean music, enjoyed a career spanning more than seven decades and became internationally known for his distinctive voice, sharp wit and social and political commentary. Born in Grenada in 1935, Francisco moved to Trinidad as a young child and went on to become one of calypso’s most decorated performers, winning Trinidad and Tobago’s Calypso King or Monarch title eight times and the Carnival Road March competition on eight occasions. His extensive catalogue explored politics, social issues, relationships, culture and everyday Caribbean life, helping to take calypso to audiences well beyond Trinidad and Tobago.