Press Releases

For Immediate Release                             Contact: Tionee Scotland
September 28, 2026                                                    202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MOURNS THE PASSING OF CALYPSO LEGEND - THE MIGHTY SPARROW

U.S. Virgin Islands— Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) issued the following statement on the passing of Slinger Francisco, internationally renowned calypsonian also known as, "The Mighty Sparrow":

"It is with deep sadness that I join the people of the Virgin Islands and the entire Caribbean family in mourning the passing of Slinger Francisco, the Mighty Sparrow. For more than six decades, he gave voice to the joys, struggles, humor, and truths of Caribbean life.

“Sparrow was known as the 'Calypso King of the World. He was a master storyteller and social commentator who used his wit and his music to hold a mirror up to society, and he carried our region's culture to stages around the globe. Generations of Virgin Islanders have danced to his music at Carnival, at family gatherings, in our local communities and far into the Caribbean diaspora. His songs are woven into the fabric of our shared Caribbean identity.

"We are profoundly grateful that Sparrow chose to share his extraordinary artistry and gift with the world. He inspired countless calypsonians and artists who followed him, and his legacy will live on through the beauty of our Calypso and Soca music.

"On behalf of the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife, his children, grandchildren, loved ones, the people throughout our Caribbean region and the diaspora, and to all who loved him. May he rest in eternal peace."

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