ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada – Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas has praised Dr. Slinger Francisco – The Mighty Sparrow, for his contribution to Caribbean and world culture.
In a message marking his 75 birthday, Prime Minister Thomas said very few artistes can boast of a career that has spanned more than five decades, covered multiple genres of music and art-forms and includes performances on stages in every continent.
“Grenadians the world over can proudly claim as their own, a truly distinguished and accomplished Caribbean maestro in you, the Mighty Sparrow. From humble beginnings in Grand Roi, in the parish of St. John, you were destined to be the Grand Calypso King of the World and one of our nation’s finest Cultural Ambassadors,” the Prime Minister said in the message read to a special award ceremony held for the Mighty Sparrow in New York today.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Grenada, I wish to salute you on the occasion of your 75th Birthday and commend you on your much deserved Award.” Grenada’s Prime Minister added.
Mighty Sparrow
He said the world renown Calypsonian has also contributed to Caribbean and world culture, politics and story-telling, through his wit, extensive breadth of topics covered and unsurpassed propensity to build on, innovate and capture new rhythms across genres.
The Prime Minister said the Mighty Sparrow has also contributed in no small way to the relationship between Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago.
“In Grenada, we do not feel in any way compromised by the fact that we have been sharing you with Trinidad and Tobago, because our two nations have co-existed and shared much for as far back as we know. In fact, I am of the view that you have actually served to cement the bond between our two nations, as much as you have increased the reach and the scope of Caribbean music, with more albums than any other artists from the region.”
