Cletus “Halibut” Abraham

Cletus Andrew, universally known by his stage name “Halibut,” was a legendary figure in Dominican music, a pioneering force in the Cadence-lypso genre, and a man whose voice became the soundtrack of the nation’s cultural awakening in the 1970s.

News of his passing broke on March 14, 2026, sending shockwaves through the local musical fraternity and the wider Dominican diaspora. His death marks the loss of a Cultural Icon, a title officially bestowed upon him by the Government of Dominica in 2019 for his half-century of service to the island’s arts.

The Rise of Belles Combo

Hailing from the community of Belles, Cletus Abraham rose to prominence as the charismatic leader and lead singer of Belles Combo.

During the 1970s, at the height of the Cadence-lypso explosion, Belles Combo was one of the Big Three alongside Exile One and the Midnight Groovers. Under Halibut’s leadership, the band released three influential albums and several 45s that defined the “Dominica sound.” His music was characterised by:

• Social Commentary: His lyrics often tackled the complexities of Dominican life, social inequality, and the struggles of the working class.
• Rhythmic Innovation: As a singer, he had an uncanny ability to navigate the complex, syncopated rhythms of cadence, blending Haitian influences with local folk traditions.

The “Pawa Bol” Legacy

If one song defines Halibut’s career, it is undoubtedly “PAWABOL” (sometimes written as Pawa Bol). The track remains a staple of Dominican radio and a must-play at any cultural event.

• The Comeback: After a long hiatus from the mainstream spotlight, Halibut made a triumphant return to the stage in the 2010s. He famously won the NCCU Cadence-lypso Competition in both 2011 and 2013, proving that his voice and stage presence had lost none of their magic over the decades.
• WCMF 2025: Just months before his passing, he was a featured highlight of the 2025 World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), where a new generation of fans witnessed the energy of the man who helped build the festival’s foundation.

Musical Contributions & Hits

Beyond “Pawa Bol,” his discography includes some of the most enduring hits in the Creole language:

• Mal Elevé – A biting commentary on social etiquette and respect.
• Qui Ca Ou le Vieaux – A beloved classic that showcases his vocal range.
• Riches of Dominica – A 2018 collaboration with The First Serenade Band, released as a motivational anthem for a nation recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Maria.

Personal Profile

Halibut was known as a humble but no-nonsense professional. In his later years, he became a mentor to younger artists, emphasising the importance of staying true to one’s roots. He lived in Mahaut for much of his life and was deeply connected to the village’s cultural history.