Community Center

Community Mourns V.I. Calypso Icon St. Clair Alphonso 'Whadablee' DeSilvia

The V.I. community — from public officials to regular citizens — along with family and friends mourned the death of St. Clair Alphonso “Whadablee” DeSilvia, a calypso icon in the U.S. Virgin Islands who died Saturday. From social media platforms, particularly Facebook, to the airwaves, the legendary figure was remembered for his transformative impact on Virgin Islands music. He died at age 63. “The significance of this startling loss is immeasurable,” said Senate President Donna Frett-Gregory. “He contributed to the public through his contribution to the Legislature and his contribution to the musical landscape of this territory. Indeed, with heavy hearts, we send condolences to the DeSilvia family, his friends and all of those who were able to experience his gifts." “The Virgin Islands will certainly be at a loss, personally and culturally,” she added. DeSilvia, who worked for the Legislature until his retirement in December 2020, was a self-taught musician who learned to play the...