It was released on 15 March 2019 by Virgin EMI Records as the lead single from her third studio album, Real Life.

The song, a power ballad with gospel influences, features lyrics which Sandé described as being inspired by the "intoxicating positivity" of Nigerian musician Fela Kuti.

[1][2] Sandé sent demos of the song to producer Troy Miller, who she was familiar with due to his work with British musician Laura Mvula.

[4][1] On the same day, Sandé performed "Sparrow" live on 15 March 2019 at Elstree Studios for the charity telethon event Comic Relief.

The video, directed by Sarah McColgan and edited by Ernie Gilbert, was shot in New York City.