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.
Memories
Mighty Sparrow Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Give us cause to shed a tear
And mourn for they are gone
Now all that's left is a faint memory
Based on the theme of a strange melody
Still we must think of them
And recall their image with pride
Telling people from deep insideThis is dedicated to those who died
Bert Inniss I'll always remember
Jumping when a steelband pass, playing mas
Sugary, peppery Bert, was never ever one for class
Bertram Inniss, wherever you are, compère
Just for you I came out with real fire this year
Each and everyone I know
Some good day will have to go
Right back from where they came
Now good or bad we must try all the same
Not to be sad or heap scorn on their name
And every girl and boy
Who are sharing my sympathies
I must tell you this song is just
Dedicated to memories
George Bailey I'll always remember
Jumping when a steelband pass, playing mas
Sugary, peppery George was never ever one for class
George Bailey, wherever you are compère
Just for you I came out with real fire this year
How many have known a friend
Playing mas down to the end
And though we play
Now and then thoughts will stray
To that dear one who has long passed away
So for this Carnival when you're jumping up, take a break
Try and take in this song I make
To remember for old times sake
Jack Brathwaithe I'll always remember
Jumping when them big band pass, playing mas
Sugary, peppery Jack was never ever one for class
Jack Brathwaithe, where ever you are compère
Just for you I came out with real fire this year
Simple words cannot define
The memories that fills the mind
Of those who are left behind
To some of us it's a kin or a friend
Or a great love that was shared to the end
So it is our duty, I mean each and every one
See that their memories live on
Even though they are dead and gone
Albert Moore I'll always remember
Jumping when a steel band pass, playing big mas
Sugary, peppery Al was never ever one for class
Dear Albert, where ever you are compère
Just for you I came out with real fire this year
The Mighty Sparrow's song "Memories" is a mournful tribute to friends and loved ones who have passed away. The song reflects on the inevitability of death and the power of memories to keep the departed alive in our hearts. Every year, someone we know or love passes away, leaving only memories behind. The song encourages listeners to recognize the importance of these memories and to honor those who have died by keeping their memories alive. The lyrics highlight specific individuals-- Bert Inniss, George Bailey, Jack Brathwaithe, and Albert Moore-- whom the singer will always remember for their love of life and their ability to enjoy Caribbean Carnival.
The song's melancholy theme is tempered by the celebratory nature of Caribbean Carnival. The lyrics urge listeners to think of their departed loved ones when they're jumping up and playing mas. Carnival is a time of joy and revelry, but it's also a time to honor those who have gone before us. The song's chorus-- "This is dedicated to memories"-- emphasizes the importance of remembering our loved ones, not just during mourning, but always.
"Memories" is a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of love and friendship. The song invites us to reflect on those we've lost, to keep them close in our hearts, and to celebrate their lives whenever and wherever we can.
Line by Line Meaning
Every year somebody dear
Give us cause to shed a tear
And mourn for they are gone
Now all that's left is a faint memory
Every year we lose someone close to us and it causes us to be sad and mourn their passing. Their absence becomes a memory that gradually fades away.
Based on the theme of a strange melody
Still we must think of them
And recall their image with pride
Despite the fading memories, we must remember those who are gone and cherish the image of them in our minds, even if it's just a faint image like a strange melody.
Telling people from deep inside
This is dedicated to those who died
With this song, we dedicate our memories to those who have passed away and share with others the deep feelings we have inside.
Each and everyone I know
Some good day will have to go
Right back from where they came
Now good or bad we must try all the same
Everyone we know will eventually die and pass away. Whether they were good or bad, we must still try to remember them and keep their memory alive.
Not to be sad or heap scorn on their name
And every girl and boy
Who are sharing my sympathies
I must tell you this song is just
Dedicated to memories
We should not be sad or speak ill of those who are gone. To all who feel the same way, this song is simply dedicated to the memories of those we have lost.
How many have known a friend
Playing mas down to the end
Who will never again
And though we play
Many of us have lost friends who we enjoyed playing mas with until the end. Unfortunately, they will never play with us again.
Now and then thoughts will stray
To that dear one who has long passed away
So for this Carnival when you're jumping up, take a break
Try and take in this song I make
To remember for old times sake
Sometimes we're reminded of those who have passed away and this Carnival is no exception. Take a break and listen to this song to remember and honor those who used to play with us.
Simple words cannot define
The memories that fills the mind
Of those who are left behind
The memories of those who have passed away are difficult to express in words. They fill our minds and our hearts, leaving us with a mix of emotions.
To some of us it's a kin or a friend
Or a great love that was shared to the end
So it is our duty, I mean each and every one
See that their memories live on
For some of us, those memories are of a close family member, a dear friend, or a great love that lasted until the end. It's our responsibility to make sure that these memories are never forgotten.
Even though they are dead and gone
Despite the fact that those we have lost are no longer with us, we can still honor them through our memories and by ensuring that their legacy lives on.
Writer(s): Slinger Francisco
Contributed by Skyler K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@JBizz716
My momma used to make me dance with her to this song. Now that today is her heavenly birthday... I wish I had those moments back but I will always have those memories. 😢
@peterhume1777
This tune is like a breath of fresh air. Simple , Beautiful and Poignant. Deserves an award.
@markdavid9329
My favorite version and one of my favorite Sparrow songs ever...never may we forget..
@dumfriesspearhead7398
At last! I heard this song for the first (and last until now) time in 1985 in Trinidad. It always moved me. On a whim just now I typed in "George Bailey, I'll remember calypso song" and this came up. And as I'm playing it, my eyes are streaming with tears.
@debbieannjones9074
I took the same action you did to find the song and its title And my tears are also flowing
@roberthosein5687
What a song wow such talent my god and he was on spot with it too wow a beautiful song 😢
@burtonsankeralli5445
We have lost so many in this time may they travel well into the Light
@leacock24lenard75
One of the sounds that will always live on for yesrs to come let it play
@petrarabath8348
Tears fall for all the greats that has fallen asleep. No 1. Is Slinger Francisco..
I am so proud of being alive when he was just oozing with greatness when he sang his awesome creations in Clypso. RIP SIR!!!
@ayindesmith
This sounds like you think Sparrow died