The sweet sound of Cocoa Tea has fallen silent, but his music will forever sing in the hearts of reggae lovers worldwide. The legendary singer, known for his smooth vocals and conscious lyrics, has passed away at 65.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to the late artist, whose real name was Calvin George Scott, in a heartfelt Instagram post.
“His smooth vocals and compelling lyrics gave us timeless classics like Rocking Dolly and I Lost My Sonia—songs that have become cultural anthems,” Holness shared.
A Voice That Defined Generations
Born in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, Cocoa Tea became a household name in the reggae scene, initially gaining fame across the island before his music spread globally in the 1990s. His signature style—a seamless blend of laid-back melodies and socially conscious messages—made him one of the most beloved voices in reggae.
His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed to the Jamaica Gleaner that he suffered cardiac arrest early Tuesday morning in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Cocoa Tea had been battling lymphoma since 2019, a condition that worsened after developing pneumonia six months ago. Despite his struggles, his positive spirit never wavered.
“He was always hopeful,” Malvia Scott shared. “Even three weeks ago, while hospitalized, he reassured me that everything would be all right.”
A Legacy of Love, Peace, and Rastafari
Beyond his music, Cocoa Tea was a pillar of generosity and kindness, embodying the core values of Rastafarianism, which he embraced in 1985. His lyrics often reflected themes of love, unity, and social consciousness, leaving an indelible mark on reggae music and Jamaican culture.
Holness acknowledged his impact beyond music:
“Cocoa Tea was more than a musician—he was a beacon of hope who lifted up the less fortunate and proudly represented Jamaica on the world stage.”
His passing is a great loss to the reggae community, but his timeless music and uplifting message will continue to resonate for generations to come.
