Sparrow gets his Lifetime Achievement Award from TT GC in New York

CG Rudrawatee Nan Ramgoolam presents the award to Sparrow's son, Richard Francisco

The Mighty Sparrow's son, Richard Francisco, on Thursday received his father's Lifetime Achievement Award at the Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in New York.

Sparrow was supposed to receive his award at the Consulate General’s 51st Anniversary of Independence ceremony last Friday but was unable to attend. Two other calypso legends, Rose and Nelson, also received awards.

Richard thanked the Consulate on his father's behalf and advised that he is writing a book about the life and times of his iconic father.

In making the presenting, Consul General Rudrawatee Nan Ramgoolam commented on the work of the calypsonian.

"The Mighty Sparrow is an integral part of the development of calypso and if one studies his compositions well, one can not only get a sense of Trinidad and Tobago’s society through the years but many important international scenarios are chronicled in his music," she stated.

She added, "'Congo Man', though often criticized, was a commentary on the crisis in the Congo from the years 1960- 1966 and 'Jean and Dinah' highlighted one of the social challenges that plagued post-war Trinidad and Tobago. There is no doubt, however, that 'Slave' and 'Education' were two of his most moving and powerful compositions. He is indeed Mighty and we wanted to express our gratitude for all that he has done for Trinidad and Tobago."

Click the link below to hear the Mighty Sparrow's Jean and Dinah: