Calypso icon Mighty Sparrow celebrates 91st birthday

Caribbean calypso legend Mighty Sparrow, born Slinger Francisco, marked his 91st birthday with characteristic humor, playfully insisting, "I am 19, not 91. You all got it wrong."

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I am 19, not 91. You all got it wrong. It’s God’s blessings. The Mighty Sparrow is more a churchman now.

Speaking via phone from his home in New York, Sparrow shared his delight at receiving numerous birthday wishes. "I've been answering a lot of calls. People are wishing me a long, long life. It's wonderful... all good," he said. While not planning a large party, he anticipated relatives and friends visiting with a cake. He looked forward to enjoying some Caribbean food like pelau and roti, and a drink of his choice, be it beer, rum, or whiskey.

Sparrow, also known as "The Birdie," mentioned that his relatives would play his music during the celebration. He humorously reiterated his age claim, "I keep telling everybody I'm 19." He also took the opportunity to thank his fans for their unwavering support, stating, "I love you all. Thank you. I can't thank you enough for all the support."

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I’ve been answering a lot of calls. People are wishing me a long, long life. It's wonderful... all good.

Born in Grand Roy, Grenada, on July 9, 1935, Mighty Sparrow is a distinguished artist. He holds the record for winning Trinidad's Carnival Road March competition eight times and the Calypso Monarch title eight times. He has also been crowned Calypso King of the World twice. His extensive discography includes hits like "The Slave," "Education," and "Survival." He also paid tribute to calypso pioneers such as Lord Melody and Lord Kitchener.

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I’m at home. Not in a party yet. But I know my relatives and friends will come over with a cake. A big ‘Happy Birthday’ scrawled over it. I am waiting for it. I will take a drink, whether it’s beer, rum or whiskey. I’ll eat some Caribbean food. I am sure they will have pelau and roti.

His daughter, Karen Francisco, described him as "strong, happy, and contented" during their conversation. She noted that his family, including his wife Margaret and children Sancho and Michelle Francisco, had wished him a happy birthday. Talk City 91.1, where Karen works as a broadcaster, paid tribute by playing Sparrow's music throughout the day.

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I keep telling everybody I’m 19.