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.
Education Is Essential
Mighty Sparrow Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Our rising population needs sound education
To be recognised anywhere you go
You gotta have your certificate to show
To enjoy any kind of happiness
Knowledge is the key to success
Children go to school and learn wellOtherwise later on in life you go catch real hell
Without an education in your head
Your whole life will be pure misery, you better off dead
For there is simply no room in this whole wide world
For an uneducated little boy or girl
Don't allow idle companions to lead you astray
To earn tomorrow you got to learn today
For employment, yes, employment, you must be intelligent
So it's essential, very essential, to have your credentials
But if you block headed like a mule
Remember, no one will employ a fool
You will be the last one to be hired
And the very first one to be fired
Children go to school and learn well
Otherwise later on in life you go catch real hell
Without an education in your head
Your whole life will be pure misery, you better off dead
For there is simply no room in this whole wide world
For an uneducated little boy or girl
Don't follow idle companions or you will get burned
To earn, to earn, you got to learn
Illiteracy, illiteracy, is man's greatest enemy
It's your duty, yes, your duty, stamp it out completelyIgnorance always increases risk
Education saves you much distress
So learn, learn, learn as much as you can
This nation's future is in your hands
Children go to school and learn well
Otherwise later on in life you go catch real hell
Without an education in your head
Your whole life will be pure misery, you better off dead
For there is simply no room in this whole wide world
For an uneducated little boy or girl
Don't allow idle companions to lead you astray
To earn, tomorrow, you got to learn today
It's a treasure, yes, a treasure beyond any measure
So secure it, just secure it, don't ever ignore it
I say to fight life's battles come what may
Education will light up your way
Without it you never, never, never get through
Success or failure now it is up to you
Children go to school and learn well
Otherwise later on in life you go catch real hell
Without an education in your head
Your whole life will be pure misery, you better off dead
For there is simply no room in this whole wide world
For an uneducated little boy or girl
Don't allow idle companions to lead you astray
To earn tomorrow, you got to learn today
It's imperative! (As long as you live... it's your prerogative. Give all that you can give!)
In the Mighty Sparrow's song "Education Is Essential," the artist emphasizes the importance of education in an individual's life. The opening line, "Education, education this is the foundation," sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the artist states that a sound education is necessary for developing essential life skills and attaining success. The artist goes on to say that having an education means having the knowledge to better face life's challenges, both personal and professional. With knowledge one can achieve happiness, and without it, misery is likely to follow. The song also warns listeners of the dangers of being uneducated, stating that it can be a great disadvantage in a competitive world. The artist emphasizes the need for hard work and determination and advises people to avoid negative peer pressure that can lead one astray from their goal.
The song is a message of hope to all those who feel the odds are stacked against them. It's a reminder that knowledge changes opinions, empowers people, and ultimately leads to success. The song highlights the need for education not only as a means of individual empowerment but also as a tool to fight societal issues like illiteracy, poverty, and ignorance. Education is not just a personal responsibility, but a civic duty, as the nation's future depends on informed citizens.
Line by Line Meaning
Education, education this is the foundation
Education is the cornerstone of personal development
Our rising population needs sound education
The growing population requires a strong educational system
To be recognised anywhere you go
Education is essential for gaining recognition and respect
You gotta have your certificate to show
Proof of education is required to access opportunities and achieve success
To enjoy any kind of happiness
Education is necessary for a fulfilling life
Knowledge is the key to success
Acquiring knowledge is a vital factor in achieving personal success
Children go to school and learn well
Successful learning in the early years is crucial to later success
Otherwise later on in life you go catch real hell
Without education, life will be very difficult
Without an education in your head
Lack of education causes significant hardship
Your whole life will be pure misery, you better off dead
Life without education is unbearable
For there is simply no room in this whole wide world
Education is a prerequisite for major opportunities
For an uneducated little boy or girl
Children without an education are limited in their opportunities
Don't allow idle companions to lead you astray
Negative influences can cause people to veer from the education that they need
To earn tomorrow you got to learn today
Continuous learning is essential for career advancement
For employment, yes, employment, you must be intelligent
Educated people are more likely to secure jobs
So it's essential, very essential, to have your credentials
But if you block headed like a mule
Having proper educational qualifications is vital, since employers will not hire unqualified individuals
Remember, no one will employ a fool
You will be the last one to be hired
And the very first one to be fired
Unqualified individuals are at high risk of losing their jobs
Illiteracy, illiteracy, is man's greatest enemy
Lack of education is a significant obstacle to happiness and success
It's your duty, yes, your duty, stamp it out completely
We all have a responsibility to address illiteracy
Ignorance always increases risk
Education saves you much distress
Lack of education leads to unforeseen consequences and problems, while education helps to avoid them
So learn, learn, learn as much as you can
Continuous learning is an important part of life
This nation's future is in your hands
Individuals have the power to shape the future through education and hard work
It's a treasure, yes, a treasure beyond any measure
Education is a valuable asset that cannot be measured by money alone
So secure it, just secure it, don't ever ignore it
Education should be taken seriously and protected
I say to fight life's battles come what may
Education will light up your way
Having an education helps people navigate life's challenges
Without it you never, never, never get through
Education is a necessity for overcoming personal obstacles
Success or failure now it is up to you
Achievement and failure are dependent on an individual's decisions and education
It's imperative! (As long as you live... it's your prerogative. Give all that you can give!)
Education is crucial! One should give their all in the pursuit of knowledge.
Contributed by Levi K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Amina Phillip
I love your video and it is a good calypso that Ican makeone about education to