00:00Before the Senate began its legislative business for the day, Senate President Wade Mark led the Upper House in its
00:06tribute to an icon of Calypso, Dr. Slinger, the mighty Sparrow Francisco, who died on Sunday.
00:13For more than seven decades, Sparrow was far more than an entertainer. He was a chronicle of our society, a
00:36cultural ambassador, a master of wit.
00:44And social commentary.
00:47Planning and Economic Affairs Minister, Dr. Kennedy Sawat Singh, made reference to the legendary Calypso, also known as Birdie, having
00:56been a recipient of the nation's highest award, the Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
01:01Sparrow was far more than a Calypsoanian. He was a storyteller, a social commentator, and a cultural force who transformed
01:11everyday experiences, struggles, humor, and aspirations of our people into music that transcended generations and borders.
01:22Though we mourn his passing, the legacy he leaves behind is immeasurable. For his songs will continue to educate, entertain,
01:32and inspire long after this moment of loss.
01:36Minister Sawat Singh said Trinidad and Tobago has lost an icon. Opposition Senator Dr. Margaret Rose offered a tribute to
01:43the mighty Sparrow.
01:44May I, on behalf of the members on this opposition bench, join with the members on the other side of
01:52the Senate in expressing sincere condolences on the passing of the mighty Sparrow, the Calypso king of the world.
02:01Indeed, indeed, his life's work has enriched our society, and his incredible legacy will live on.
02:08There was also a tribute to the mighty Sparrow from the independent bench from Senator Anthony Vieira.
02:14Dr. Birdie was a great Calypsonian because he revolutionized the Calypso art form through his sonorous voice, sharp social commentary,
02:26witty double entend, and an unmatched stage presence.
02:31He took Calypso from local tents to international stages. He was a force of nature.
02:39Earlier, the Senate President led the government, opposition, and independent senators in a moment of silence in honor of the
02:45mighty Sparrow.
02:55Senate President Marks said the mighty Sparrow's passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in our cultural history, but
03:03his voice will endure wherever Calypso is sung, studied, and celebrated.
03:08Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:12Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:12Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:12Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:12Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:12Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:13Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:13Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:13Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
03:13Jewel Brown, TV6 News.
