Sparrow's roots are in Gran Roi, a rural fishing village in Grenada. He was born to a poor working class family. They migrated to his adopted homeland, Trinidad, when he was just one year old. He attended the New Town Boys School where he was selected to sing in the boys. choir of St. Patrick's Catholic Church. This was his initial involvement in music. The harmonics of the Gregorian Chants and the Plainsongs of the church that were embedded in him would later affect the depth and intensity of his compositions. His vocal abilities also reflect his childhood role as the head choirboy who sang baritone and tenor in Latin in the church.
Other influences included listening to American street quartets, pop tunes by Nat King Cole and Frankie Laine, Sarah Vaughn, Billy Eckstein, Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald with their jazz contributions, and the early calypsoes of Lord Melody, Lord Kitchener, Lord Christo, Lord Invader (of Rum and Coca Cola fame) and the Mighty Spoiler, to name a few.
At the tender age of 20, Sparrow emerged, as the leading Calypsonian with his record-breaking hit, Jean and Dinah. (Yankees Gone, 1956 covered by Harry Belafonte). Throughout the years he managed to showcase his diversity each year with the release of at least one album dating from the catchy Jean and Dinah. in 1956 to Carnival Boycott (1957, a song responsible for the many changes and improvement for mass men, calypsonians and steelband men). This song was eventually responsible for the formation of the Carnival Development Committee. An organization to assist calypsonians, steelband men and mas men. This committee was fully endorsed by the Founding Father of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Eric Eustace Williams.
In 1958 he became the only calypsonian to have had a triple win, in the same year, in the Road March Competition. The calypsoes were P.A.Y.E. (Pay As You Earn, a song that enabled the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, to understand the importance of paying taxes). Russian Satellite (a song reflecting on the act of cruelty to animals) and Theresa (a number where, for the first time in his career, he utilized other languages). In an unprecedented move, he was awarded a cash prize by the Carnival Development Committee, for winning the Road March Competition that year.
In 1959 he released Federation, (a song that reflected his disappointment over the breaking up of the proposed Caribbean Federation). In 1960 his career continued to soar with the melodious May May and Leave the damn Doctor, Royal Jail and Ten to one is Murder followed in 1961. In 1962 he presented us with Sparrow Come Back Home and Model Nation. Dan is the Man in the Van came in 1963 and the Village Ram in 1964.
In 1965 we experienced Congo Man. In that same year Sparrow proved himself a balladeer with his remake of Arthur Prysock's original, Only A Fool Breaks His Own Heart accompanied by Byron Lee and the Dragonaires. This rendition won him a Gold Record in Holland. He also recorded Frank Sinatra's My Way and Lucho Gatica's "El Reloj".
In 1966, He won the Road March Competition again with Melda and 1967 he advised the youth on the importance of Education. Mr. Walker was his hit in 1968, he won the Road March Competition again in 1969 with Sa Sa Yea and in 1970 he appealed to the people of this world to Love one Another and Lend A Hand. These songs appealed to the country for unity "Unity somehow if Trinidad ever needed you is now".
In 1971 Good Citizen followed and in 1972 he won the Calypso Monarch and Road March Competitions with Drunk and Disorderly. No Kind of Man at all was released in 1973 and We Pass That Stage (a strong social commentary in 1974. In 1975 he gave us a psychological analysis, showing where the rich is envious of the poor with Neurosis of the Rich. The Mayor of Detroit, Coleman Young, also presented him with the keys to the city.
In 1976 we got the humorous Salt Fish, and in 1977 he lead the Caribbean with a tribute to Hasley Crawford, the Olympic Gold Medallist. In the same year, during FESTAC, in Nigeria, Sparrow received the honorary title of Chief of the Yorubas, (which is Chief Omo Wale of Ikoyi).
In 1978 he paid tribute to Penny Commissiong (the first black Miss Universe) with The First Black Miss Universe, and chided Idi Amin Dada, tyrant in Africa. Kerry Packer (a song about the cricket revolution) followed in 1979 and in 1980 the Shah of Iran (Wanted Dead or Alive ). This number was covered by the popular American group, Manhattan Transfer.
Sparrow continued to climb the ladder of success while becoming the most popular caypsonian of all time. He demonstrated year after year, with his social commentaries that the calypsonian is really the eyes and ears of the people. In 1981 he registered his social/political Commentaries. We Like It So and his first chutney contribution Sexy Marajhin another liguistic inclusion. In 1982 he gave us Human Rights and in 1983 another powerful, State of the Union address Capitalism Gone Mad. He added another Road March title to his record in 1984 with Doh Back Back and in 1985 he demonstrated to the youth in the business that he can step up to another level when necessary with Soca Pressure.
Around this same time, Mayor Ed Koch of New York proclaimed March 18th, The Mighty Sparrow Day. He dealt with another evil of society in 1986 advising the vulnerable that Coke Is Not It. In 1987 he thrilled the world with another classic, the humorous Lying Excuses. He made another appearance in Nigeria, this time as Chief Omo Wale of Ikoyi, during his National Tour of Afirca and upon his return he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree, Doctor of Letters, from the University of the West Indies. Hence, the reason for Dr. Bird his chronicling of the event at the University of the West Indies, (using humor again as he always does She had a headache and this Dr. Bird performed a myomectamy on her) in 1988.
Manjhay, and Dutch Romance (which gave us a touch of French and Dutch languages) in 1989. In 1990 he gave us Let the Music Play and was inducted into the SUNSHINE Awards Calypso and Steelband Music Hall of Fame on June 24th. That same day the Brooklyn Borough President, Howard Golder proclaimed the day The Mighty Sparrow Day. Another strong social commentary, We Could Make It Easy If We Try and Precious a dedication to his daughter followed in 1991.
Sparrow continued to define the true meaning of "The Calypso King of the World. In 1992 with Both of Them, Crown Heights Justice and Man will Survive. All making a big impact in the Caribbean and the United States.
In 1993 he sang Put On Your Dancing Shoes and More the Merrier and in 1994 told the youth on his heels that Age Is Just A Number and Salvation, underscoring his roots as a choirboy in the church. In 1995 he gave us a course in history where once again he kept the linguistic involvement Democracy In Haiti (Liberte) and a keen sense of observation with the social situation at home This Is Madness, ("Why have we cast aside intelligence and abandon common sense with unprecedented violence for which there is no known defense"). Incidentally these gems earned him third place in the Calypso Monarch Competition. He gave us OJ (the juice is loose) and the Royal Divorce in 1996 and an assortment of Soca Ballads in 1997.
This illustrious lyricist/composer/singer/comedian/entertainer is an 11 time Calypso Monarch. This includes winning the King of Kings Competition (where every monarch in the calypso world is invited to compete against the Mighty Sparrow, each time suffering total defeat at his hands) in Trinidad. He also won the Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival Road March Competition eight (8) times, second only to the Lord Kitchener, (his songs were selected and played most often by the bands in this category). Sparrow received many other University citations and awards from Governments and organizations too numerous to mention.
Now in 1998, The Mighty Sparrow, continues to rule the Calypso/Soca world with his voice, lyrics and melodies. He is demonstrating once more that he is the King. His new release, The Supreme Serenader is full of dance, humor and facts. The first track Paramaribo is not only a beautiful rendition of how he was captivated by the girls in Surinam but it also demonstrates the depth of his thoughts and his gratitude for a land of style and grace.
Santo Domingo is a track full of dance and proof positive that the King is truly global with his music. He will be embraced by the Latino communities around the world for this one. Racism is a very powerful social commentary, both lyrically and musically. In this song, Sparrow once again deals with an issue of international concern while at the same time reflecting on those who have been in the forefront of the struggle.
Willie Dead is a humorously and classically executed double entendre, so convincing that you will mourn for Willie. Another powerful and appealing social commentary is Raperman. The King assumes the role of messenger and protector of women and underscores his position with the following tracks, Born To Love, and Don't Give It Up.
The Mighty Sparrow has proved himself as the Quintessential Calypsonian, par excellence, with over seventy (70) albums to his credit. He is richly endowed with many gifts. He possesses an amazing ability not only to put into works and tempo the exploits of society, but to crown it all with showmanship and appeal. His great contribution to the artform and our lives has unraveled the mysteries of Caribbean life, leaving the professionally trained sociologist and economist befuddled.
A combination of talent, hard work and opportunity enabled Sparrow's ascendance to Calypso King of the World. He brought honor, glory and dignity to an indigenous art form that was once scorned upon by the elite of Caribbean society. He is one extraordinary entertainer who utilizes the medium he masters not just to entertain but also to edify, enlighten, and educate.
The King is currently preparing for the new millennium when he will re-enter the World Monarch and Road March Competitions for a cataclysmic encounter with his competitors.
Without doubt, as The Mighty Sparrow, The King of Kings, is the real Supreme Serenader.
60 Million Frenchman
Mighty Sparrow Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And you'll give your heart
But you have a whole body
Why not give each part?
When a love is true
There ain't nothing you wouldn't do
The French people know the trick
So they have everybody lick!
They say is Napoleon who start this thing
Every other Frenchman only copying
People used to always say how it shouldn't be
Now this thing is rampant here in this country
Long time when you catch a man committing this crime
First thing he will say, "Oh, gosh, boy, first time"
Nowadays he making his excuse in song
Singing, "60 million Frenchmen could not be wrong!"
It's easy to say
"I love you my dear"
But you have to prove to her
Your love is sincere
There's only one way
So hear what I say
If you want to keep your sweetheart
Go to Martinique and learn the art
They say is Napoleon who start this thing
Every other Frenchmen only copying
Hear them socialism then "Who you talking to, me?"
Now this thing is rampant here in this country
Long time when you catch a man committing this crime
First thing he will say, "Oh, gosh, boy, first time"
Nowadays he making his excuse in song
Singing, "60 million Frenchmen could not be wrong!"
All over the place
People carrying on
Especially them old time calypsonian
They like the fun
Hey. I never catch none
But Blakey tell me about one
And I don't intend to rest
'Til he picture hit the express
They say is Napoleon who start this thing
Every other Frenchman only copying
People used to always say how it shouldn't be
Now this thing is rampant here in this country
Long time when you catch a man committing this crime
First thing he will say, "Oh, gosh, boy, first time"
Nowadays he singing you a brand-new song
What the song is? "60 million Frenchmen could not be wrong!"
The Mighty Sparrow's "60 Million Frenchman" is a soca/calypso song that explores the widespread practice of oral sex in French culture. The song invites men to give their whole bodies to their loves, not just their hearts. The French people are praised for their apparent expertise in the art of sex and the occasional mockery of the rest of the world with the phrase "60 million Frenchmen can't be wrong!". The song suggests that men can learn the art of lovemaking in Martinique and asserts that Napoleon may have started this trend.
Moreover, the lyrics also talk about how this practice was once considered taboo or shameful but has since become rampant in this country. The song talks about how people used to criticize it and now everybody is doing it. It's a lighthearted song with some social commentary, celebrating how France, according to the song lyrics, was ahead of its time considering most nations still considered the act as a taboo.
Line by Line Meaning
Hey, you say that you love
The Mighty Sparrow questions the depth of someone's love and challenges them to back up their words with action.
And you'll give your heart
He suggests that giving only one's heart to a lover is insufficient and implies that physical devotion is also necessary.
But you have a whole body
Mighty Sparrow reminds the listener that they have more to give than just their heart.
Why not give each part?
He asks why someone should hold back any part of themselves if they claim to love someone so fully.
When a love is true
Mighty Sparrow establishes that true love entails complete devotion, commitment, and submission of oneself.
There ain't nothing you wouldn't do
He suggests that true love must be transformative, compelling an individual to do things they would not ordinarily do.
The French people know the trick
Mighty Sparrow contends that the French are experts at giving of themselves fully and imply that they have learned how to love more intimately.
So they have everybody lick!
He implies that the French have seductive powers and charms that enable them to win anyone's heart.
They say it's Napoleon who started this thing
The Mighty sparrow explains the origin of the idea of giving oneself completely to one's partner, one that is too often associated with the French.
Every other Frenchman only copying
He asserts that the French have bought into the idea and practice of complete devotion in relationships more than other people.
People used to always say how it shouldn't be
Mighty Sparrow highlights that there have been criticisms of the French mode of love in the past.
Now this thing is rampant here in this country
He implies that the practice of complete devotion is widespread in Trinidad and Tobago as well.
Long time when you catch a man committing this crime
There were men caught cheating on their partners in the past, and complete devotion is often considered the standard of faithfulness.
First thing he will say, 'Oh, gosh, boy, first time'
The man caught cheating would often deny it and claim it was his first offense.
Nowadays he making his excuse in song
Mighty Sparrow accuses some men of singing songs to excuse themselves of cheating and seek social acceptance of this behavior.
Singing, '60 million Frenchmen could not be wrong!'
He is pointing out the ridiculousness of making excuses of infidelity by comparing it to suggesting a huge number of people cheating with their partners as the right and common norm.
It's easy to say
The Mighty Sparrow points out that affirming love with just mere spoken words is simple and effortless.
'I love you my dear'
He implies that saying those three magic words, 'I love you,' does not carry much weight unless it is followed by action that confirms its meaning.
But you have to prove to her
He firmly believes that to show is better than to tell, and the proof of one's love is required to ensure its sincerity and depth.
Your love is sincere
The Mighty Sparrow implies that one's love should be genuine and unfeigned.
There's only one way
There is a standard way to demonstrate one's love and commitment fully.
So hear what I say
He offers a recommendation that the listener should consider seriously.
If you want to keep your sweetheart
The Mighty Sparrow is implying that if you cherish your lover, you must go the extra mile to prove your devotion to them.
Go to Martinique and learn the art
He implies that the French island of Martinique is the perfect place to learn the tactics and methods of making love complete and reassuring.
All over the place
The Mighty Sparrow broadens the scope of people engaged in complete devotion to their partners and suggests that it is prevalent worldwide.
People carrying on
He implies that people are carrying on with their relationships and that they are content with their efforts at being wholly devoted to their partners.
Especially them old time calypsonian
Calypsonians from T&T who composed the genre's classics in the past, and old-school lovers who have been around for a while, have been practicing the art of devotion wholly.
They like the fun
This line implies that some people consider being wholly devoted to their partners as enjoyable and fun.
Hey, I never catch none
He may have never taken anyone fully as the French are known to, implying that he is not aware of it being legitimate or right to do so.
But Blakey tell me about one
He may have learned of someone engaged in complete devotion to their partner from his friend Blakey.
And I don't intend to rest
Mighty Sparrow suggests that he will investigate this topic further until he has a clear understanding of it.
'Til his picture hit the express
He will not rest until he has an idea of the person Blakey spoke about and a picture of their action - this could be for the purpose of using it as material for songs or storytelling.
Writer(s): Slinger Francisco
Contributed by Alexandra C. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@mandyharewood886
I still marvel at these songs, lyrics so naughty and classy at the same time. Exactly how sex should be - naughty, yet classy. Definitely not porn but naughty fun!
As a child though, I only caught one meaning, the second was lost on me. The mark of perfect double entendre.
And don't get me started on the melodies, the arrangements capturing the essence of the Caribbean personality at the time.
It reminds me of the West Indies cricket teams of the day, perfect players converging on the scene at the same time to work magic together that cannot be replicated.
The days when I had high hopes for a bright future based on Caribbean unity. I was no less proud of Sparrow and his team than if I were Trinidadian or Grenadian. I claimed him as I claimed Bob Marley, as my own. I claimed Maurice Bishop and wept when he died.
What went wrong?
@irving.d4959
What a calypso genius, the great mighty Sparrow.... it's part of the programme.
@saskialegrand7847
WONDERFUL Lyrics. So true WONDERFUL music arrangement. BEST Calipso singer.KING of Calipso
@vilady340284
I was fortune to have Dr. Hollis Urban Lester Liverpool (Chalkie) as my professor for Caribbean History at the University of the Virgin Islands....One day in class he wrote the lyrics to this song on the board and asked the class what this song was about.....many of the students answered -The French Revolution....my answer -Oral Sex....Love this song.
@VIProfessor
Love to all UVI alumni!
@burtonsankeralli5445
THE SPARROW REVOLUTION!!!!
@waynekhan2728
My father (rip) played these tunes this calypso not Socca .. this brings tears to my eyes ... and I played all this sparrow for my kids as were growing up !!! Still to dis day by far DA BEST THERE EVERY WAS AND WILL BE ... SLINGER FRISCO aka THE MIGHTY SPARROW
@vernecarty4043
Masterful lyrics.
Masterful arrangement by the peerless Art DeCoteau.
There is ONE AND ONLY MIGHTY SPARROW!!#
@davidsimmons9128
Arranger is Earl Rodney
@habibahahmad3248
Omg these songs brings back my childhood memories 😊
@bettytaylor1839
I was a teenager jamming to this song word for word I sang and dance to this like it was yesterday 💥💥