Above: Mighty Sparrow in Grand Roy
By the Caribbean Journal staff
Legendary calypsonian Mighty Sparrow received what he called a “stupendous” welcome in his recent return to Grenada.
Sparrow, who was born in the village of Grand Roy in 1935, performed in concert last Saturday at the Spice Basket. On Monday, he traveled to Grand Roy for the unveiling of a plaque in his honour.
There is also now a roadside wall in Grand Roy bearing the image of Sparrow, whose real name is Slinger Francisco.
Sparrow grew up in Port of Spain, and has won the Carnival Road March in Trinidad on eight occasions.
Sparrow was brought to Grenada by Spice Basket owner Hugh Dolland, who also attended Monday’s ceremony.
He was joined there by Governor General Sir Carlyle Glean, Tourism Minister Dr George Vincent, former Culture Minister Arley Gill and educator Jeanette Dubois, among others.
“St John’s loves you; Grand Roy loves,” Dr Vincent said.
Sparrow, who is now 77, was commeneded for his musical achievements, with suggestions that his compositions should be included for study in Grenada’s schools.
“Sparrow is the ultimate storyteller,” Dubois said.