Machel Montano and Destra Garcia to Lead Musical Tributes at Mighty Sparrow’s National Farewell

Machel Montano and Destra Garcia will lead musical tributes to the Mighty Sparrow on Friday, October 16, as Trinidad and Tobago bids farewell to the late calypso legend.

Speaking with the Trinidad Express, arranger Carl “Beaver” Henderson said Garcia will perform “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” while Montano will present a special tribute. Gospel singer Sean Daniell is also scheduled to participate.

The approximately two-hour programme at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) will celebrate Sparrow’s legacy with selections from his extensive catalogue. The Philharmonic Orchestra, Police Band, and D Razor Sharpe Band will accompany the presentation, with rehearsals already underway.

Henderson said David Rudder, who was originally expected to participate, withdrew following a death in his family and returned to Canada.

Sparrow, born Slinger Francisco, died at his New York home on September 27 at the age of 91.

Public viewings are scheduled for Tuesday, October 13, at the Southern Academy for the Performing Arts in San Fernando, and Wednesday, October 14, at NAPA in Port of Spain.