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Thursday, July 2, 2009

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The 'Mighty Sparrow' returns By Chakara Bennett ~ Guardian Summer Intern: Where in the world can you enjoy a "true-blue" Calypso concert with one of the best performers out there for a mere $25 — only in The Bahamas. This means that Calypso-lovers are in for a real treat when the acclaimed "Calypso King of the World," takes to the stage tonight at The Sheraton, Nassau Beach Hotel at 8 o'clock. And it's affordable too. The "Mighty Sparrow," and his band The Trinidad Troubadours will be in concert with proceeds to aid the Royal Bahamas Police Force Retired Police Officers Association. "Sparrow" himself is very excited about doing the show. He promises a spectacular event that will dazzle the audience. Speaking with The Nassau Guardian from New York prior to his arrival yesterday morning, he said he is excited. "It's been a long time since I've been down there [and] I'm really looking forward to it because it's going to be a great show. I intend to cover a nice spectrum of all of my songs — the serious ones — social commentary, dance songs and of course those meant entirely for humor." He feels that this concert will definitely be different than his previous ones because he'll be addressing a different but familiar audience. He anticipates having people request for him to perform specific songs and will be more than happy to oblige, and he hopes to have old fans and attract new ones with his concert. Besides "Sparrow" there will be local entertainers adding their own spice to this eventful night. You can expect to hear from Ronnie Butler, the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band and others. "We want people to have a great time but we also want them to know that they will be aiding a good cause as well," said Paul Thompson, a retired police officer and an organizer of the event. "They will be assisting the association to help retired police officers live better and more comfortable lives once retired." Thompson hopes that the concert attracts a wide spectrum of people. "It may be more likely that 'Sparrow' would appeal more to the older or not so young people. They would remember him being here every year and performing at the Nassau Beach Hotel. Those were good times, but I think that younger people could appreciate 'Sparrow' too because he does have a lot of humorous songs that they can probably relate to as well." Earlene Knowles, 42, listens to Sparrow's music, but has never been to one of his concerts and is hoping she gets the opportunity to attend. "This time I hope I can see him. It sounds like it would be a great evening," she said. Thompson says they've kept the price for the concert low because he and the organizing committee are mindful of the economic recession. "It would be pointless to charge a high fee and no one show up. This concert is meant to bring together as many of our retired officers as possible. We want this to be a reunion of sorts. Besides the hotel and even "Sparrow" gave us a good price, so we are returning the favor." The Mighty Sparrow and The Trinidad Troubadours When: Friday, June 19 Where: The Sheraton, Nassau Beach Hotel Time: 8:30 pm Admission: $25 Ticket outlets: Police Headquarters, East St. Shell Service Station, Shirley St. Cricket Pavilion, West Bay St. Police Reserve Headquarters, East Street. For more information call 302-8044 JUST THOUGHT YOU'D LIKE TO KNOW Sparrow's real name is Slinger Francisco D.O.B.: July 9, 1935 P.O.B.: Grenada but raised in Trinidad & Tobago Music debut: St. Patrick's Catholic Church's boys' choir, and his career as Calypsonian spans over 40 years Musically influenced by: Calypsos of Lord Kitchener, Lord Melody and Lord Spoiler among others Awards: 11 time Calypso Monarch, 8-time Road March competition winner Some of his popular songs: Barack De Magnificent A Man in the Bedroom I Gotta Be Me Jean and Dinah Bag O' Sugar Down Dey Mass in Brooklyn Cokie Eye Rooster Congo Man Saltfish Doh Touch Meh President Why is he called "The Mighty Sparrow?" According to his 1994 CD "Hot Like Fire" his Calypso name was given to him by his peers, based on his style. In the old days they tried to emulate British royalty. There was Lord Kitchener, Lord Nelson, Duke. When he started singing, the bands were still using acoustic instruments and the singers would stand flat-footed, making a point or accusing someone in the crowd with the pointing of a finger, but mostly they stood motionless. When "Sparrow" sang, he got excited and moved around, much like James Brown, and this was new to them. The older singers said "Why don't you just sing instead of moving around like a little sparrow." It was said as a joke, but the name stuck. Friday, June 19, 2009