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Senate Committee Votes to Honor Soca Star Dennis “Pompa” Lybert with Key, Street Naming
Summary
The committee unanimously approved a resolution to award the official key to the territory and to recommend naming the main entrance to Peter's Rest Road on St. Croix for soca artist Dennis 'Pompa' Lybert Jr.; supporters cited his role in promoting VI culture globally.
The Senate committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs and Consumer Protection voted Sept. 22 to report favorably a resolution honoring Dennis “Pompa” Lybert Jr. for his contributions to Virgin Islands culture and soca music. The measure would award Lybert the official key to the territory and recommend naming the main entrance of Peter’s Rest Road (Christiansted, St. Croix) in his honor.
Senator Maurice C. James, sponsor of the resolution, said Lybert has promoted the territory internationally and “carries the Virgin Islands flag to global stages.” Multiple friends, artists and cultural leaders provided testimony in support — including longtime collaborators Benny Demos and Johannes Warada, event director Ian Turnbull and the Division of Festivals — and the committee heard videos from regional performers congratulating Lybert.
Nut graf: Testimony portrayed Lybert as an artist and community figure whose performances and outreach programs have raised the Virgin Islands’ cultural profile across the Caribbean and beyond; several speakers described his community work, school visits and fundraising activities.
Supporters recounted Lybert’s musical career from local bands through his solo success, citing his hit “A List” and noting performances in Trinidad, Guyana and U.S. markets. Friends and collaborators described Lybert’s regular appearances for schoolchildren, senior groups, and local fundraisers as evidence of sustained community engagement.
Vote at a glance: The committee moved and seconded the resolution; roll call recorded unanimous favorable action among members present. The measure will go to Rules and Judiciary for final vetting before a full Senate floor vote.
Ending: Committee members praised the timing of the recognition while Lybert is active and urged colleagues to support a final bill in the full Senate. Lybert offered brief remarks thanking supporters and said he plans to continue community work and educational outreach for young musicians.
