Editing Famous Grenadians (section)

== Winston Bailey "The Mighty Sparrow" ==
'''Slinger Francisco, The Mighty Sparrow'''

Born on July 9, 1935, in Grand Roy, Grenada, Slinger Francisco, known as The Mighty Sparrow, moved to Trinidad with his family at the age of one. He became one of the most iconic figures in Calypso music, revolutionizing the genre and achieving international fame through his wit, social commentary, and innovative musical style. His notable hits include “Mr. Walker,” “Obeah Wedding,” and the controversial “Congo Man,” which was banned for 23 years by the BBC.

In 1969, Sparrow collaborated with Jamaican musician Byron Lee on “Only A Fool Breaks His Own Heart,” which became a hit in the UK and Netherlands, charting for 27 weeks in 1978 and peaking at #2. Over seven decades, Sparrow recorded over 50 albums, blending Calypso with jazz, pop, pan-African, funk, and soca influences, gaining widespread appeal across various music genres. His songs have become standards for many Caribbean performers.

Sparrow’s career includes winning the Carnival Road March competition eight times, Calypso King/Monarch eight times, and twice being named Calypso King of Kings. He has toured the world for over 50 years, written over 500 songs, and recorded more than 70 albums. His significant contributions to music earned him the title “The Mount Olympus of Calypso” from the late U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell.

'''Awards and Honors'''

* 1987:     Honorary Doctor of Letters (D. Litt.) from the University of the West     Indies
* 2013:     Lifetime Achievement Award, Trinidad & Tobago Government
* 2015:     Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE)

2019: Global FEST Lifetime Artist Award <ref>The Mighty Sparrow Biography - The Mighty Sparrow</ref>