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.
No More Rocking
Mighty Sparrow Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Like if she come out a space
I say Calypso sweeping the place
Like if she come out a space
I can remember rock and roll
Had the whole place under control
Since calypso leave Trinidad
Rock and roll really suffering bad
No more rocking, no more rolling
No more jumping up like a fool
Whether you crazy or you lazy
Man, you just got to take it cool
This is calypso and everyone know
It is strictly rhythm and rhyme
Whether young or old
Jump in the line and shake your body in time
Plenty people trying their best
But they making a mess
Just for the money they put on a show
And tell you it's calypso
But you should come to Trinidad
See how people jumping mad
For as soon as we hear the true melody
The jumping spirit comes naturally
We don't have
No more rocking, no more rolling
No more jumping up like a fool
Whether you crazy or you lazy
Man, you just got to take it cool
This is calypso by the Sparrow
It is strictly rhythm and rhyme
Whether young or old
Jump in the line and shake your body in time
Some Trinidadians, big and small
Ain't like calypso at all
And some again love it more than daily bread
But can't sing if you kill them dead
Don't care how good this musician may be
The ryhthm just comes naturally
If it's for you it's yours my friend
This is gifted to certain men and women
No rocking, no rolling
No jumping up like a fool
Whether you crazy or you lazy
Man, you just got to take it cool
This is calypso and everyone know
It is strictly rhythm and rhyme
Whether young or old
Jump in the line and shake your body in time
We have musicians who bad like yaws
Men like Cyril Diaz
Ordinarily he is just like the rest
Doing his very best
But when it comes to Calypso
He is the boss as we all know
Whether he is hungry or sad
And you say Calypso Diaz gone mad
He don't have
No rocking, no rolling
No jumping up like a fool
Whether you crazy or you lazy
Man, you just got to take it cool
This is calypso and everyone know
It is strictly rhythm and rhyme
Whether young or old
Jump in the line and shake your body in time
The song "No More Rocking" by Mighty Sparrow is an ode to Calypso music, which he believes has been overshadowed by the rise of rock and roll music. The lyrics convey the message that Calypso is the music of Trinidad, and that it has its own unique rhythm and groove that cannot be replicated by any other genre of music. The line "I say Calypso sweeping the place, like if she come out a space" is a nod to the genre's otherworldly quality and the way it can captivate an audience.
The song goes on to lament the impact that rock and roll has had on Trinidad's musical landscape, claiming that it has caused Calypso to "suffer bad." Sparrow argues that there is no need to jump around like a fool to enjoy Calypso, as it is "strictly rhythm and rhyme" that can be enjoyed by anyone of any age.
The last verse of the song pays tribute to some of the great Calypso musicians of Trinidad, including Cyril Diaz, and makes it clear that Calypso is not just a genre of music, but a way of life for many Trinidadians.
Line by Line Meaning
I say Calypso sweeping the place
The singer notes that the Calypso genre is very popular and dominant in the Trinidadian music scene.
Like if she come out a space
The singer compares the sudden rise of Calypso to the arrival of something extraterrestrial that is taking over Trinidadian music.
I can remember rock and roll
The singer reminisces about the era when rock and roll music was popular in Trinidad.
Had the whole place under control
The singer acknowledges the power and influence that rock and roll had over the Trinidadian music scene.
Since calypso leave Trinidad
The singer implies that Calypso had lost its footing and popularity in Trinidadian music, leading to the emergence of rock and roll.
Rock and roll really suffering bad
The singer suggests that with the decline of rock and roll popularity in Trinidad, there is a void that the Calypso genre can fill.
No more rocking, no more rolling
The singer states that rock and roll music is no longer dominant in Trinidadian music and dance culture.
No more jumping up like a fool
The singer references the energetic and vibrant dance style that was associated with rock and roll music in Trinidad, which is not as prevalent today.
Whether you crazy or you lazy
The singer suggests that everyone, regardless of their personality or energy level, should participate and enjoy Calypso music and culture.
Man, you just got to take it cool
The singer recommends that people should take it easy and relax while enjoying Calypso music and dance, instead of getting overly excited and losing control.
This is calypso and everyone know
The singer emphasizes the dominance and popularity of Calypso music in Trinidadian culture.
It is strictly rhythm and rhyme
The singer describes the essential elements that make Calypso music unique, emphasizing the use of rhythm and rhyme.
Whether young or old
The singer includes people of all ages, suggesting that everyone can enjoy Calypso music and dance culture.
Jump in the line and shake your body in time
The singer instructs people to join in the Calypso dance, urging them to move their bodies in rhythm with the music.
Plenty people trying their best
The singer notes that many people are attempting to create Calypso music, but not all of them are successful.
But they making a mess
The singer implies that some people who try to create Calypso music are unsuccessful and produce chaotic or unenjoyable music.
Just for the money they put on a show
The singer suggests that some people create Calypso music solely for financial gain and not because of a love for the genre.
And tell you it's calypso
The singer notes that some people falsely label their music as Calypso, even if it does not fit the genre's essential elements.
But you should come to Trinidad
The singer invites people to come to Trinidad to experience authentic Calypso music and culture.
See how people jumping mad
The singer describes the energetic and passionate dance style that is associated with Calypso music in Trinidadian culture.
For as soon as we hear the true melody
The singer emphasizes the importance of the melody in Calypso music and notes that it elicits a passionate response from Trinidadian listeners.
The jumping spirit comes naturally
The singer notes that the energetic and passionate dance style associated with Calypso music comes naturally to Trinidadians.
Some Trinidadians, big and small
The singer references the diversity of opinions among Trinidadians regarding their preferences for Calypso music.
Ain't like calypso at all
The singer notes that some Trinidadians do not enjoy Calypso music at all.
And some again love it more than daily bread
The singer notes that some Trinidadians are very passionate and dedicated fans of Calypso music.
But can't sing if you kill them dead
The singer notes that even someone who loves Calypso music may not necessarily be a good singer of the genre.
Don't care how good this musician may be
The singer implies that even a skilled musician may not be successful in creating compelling Calypso music.
The rhythm just comes naturally
The singer emphasizes the importance of natural talent and passion in creating good Calypso music.
If it's for you it's yours my friend
The singer encourages people to embrace and pursue what they are passionate about, even if it is not a mainstream interest.
This is gifted to certain men and women
The singer suggests that Calypso music is a gift that is bestowed upon people with a natural talent and passion for the genre.
We have musicians who bad like yaws
The singer notes that there are skilled and talented musicians in Trinidad who are excellent performers of Calypso music.
Men like Cyril Diaz
The singer references a popular and talented Trinidadian musician named Cyril Diaz.
Ordinarily he is just like the rest
The singer notes that Cyril Diaz is an ordinary person despite his tremendous talent as a Calypso musician.
Doing his very best
The singer implies that even a skilled and talented musician like Cyril Diaz needs to put in effort and dedicate themselves to creating compelling Calypso music.
But when it comes to Calypso
The singer notes that Cyril Diaz is particularly skilled and talented when creating Calypso music, demonstrating his passion and natural talent for the genre.
He is the boss as we all know
The singer acknowledges Cyril Diaz's mastery of Calypso music and his dominance and influence in Trinidadian Calypso culture.
Contributed by Carter T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Ben Tibrez
love this
Abhijit Gaonkar
I too love this!