Jamaican reggae legend Cocoa Tea, born Colvin Scott, has passed away at the age of 65, leaving behind an enduring legacy that spans over four decades. Cocoa Tea, known for his soulful voice and unforgettable hits like “Young Lover,” “She Loves Me Now,” and “Rikers Island,” died early Tuesday morning in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, according to his wife, Malvia Scott.
Cocoa Tea’s Final Days and Struggles
Malvia Scott shared heartbreaking details about the final days of her husband’s life with the Jamaica Gleaner, recounting the difficult battle Cocoa Tea faced in his last moments. “I got a call early this morning to say that he had been transferred from the facility to the hospital because he was vomiting,” she explained. “He had been diagnosed with lymphoma back in 2019, but for the last six months, he was also struggling with pneumonia.”
Despite these health challenges, Cocoa Tea remained strong and kept a positive attitude, always looking out for his wife during their time of hardship. Malvia recalled how Cocoa reassured her, even in his weakened state, saying, “He told me not to worry because everything was going to be all right.” These words, despite the gravity of the situation, are a testament to his indomitable spirit.
The cause of death was reported to be cardiac arrest, following a long battle with illness that began in December. Cocoa was hospitalized over the Christmas break and had struggled with pneumonia in the months that followed. His passing marks the end of an era in reggae music, and fans around the world are mourning the loss of one of the genre’s most beloved figures.
Cocoa Tea’s Legacy in Reggae Music
Cocoa Tea’s contribution to reggae music goes beyond his smooth vocal delivery and chart-topping hits. Throughout his career, he collaborated with some of the biggest names in reggae and dancehall, including Shaggy, Shabba Ranks, Buju Banton, and many others. His music transcended time and cultural boundaries, resonating with fans from all walks of life.
One of Cocoa Tea’s most notable contributions was his role in launching Jamaica’s renowned New Year’s Eve event, Dancehall Jam Jam. Created in 2003, the event has become a staple in the Jamaican entertainment scene, attracting thousands of reggae and dancehall fans every year. His involvement in Dancehall Jam Jam added another layer to his already legendary career, solidifying his place in Jamaican music history.
His deep, heartfelt voice and insightful lyrics made Cocoa Tea a household name, and his music was often a blend of love, social commentary, and raw emotion. Tracks like “Rikers Island,” which reflected his thoughts on social justice, showcased his ability to blend powerful messages with infectious rhythms, making him not only a musical icon but a voice for the people.
Cocoa Tea’s Influence on Reggae and Dancehall
As one of the pioneers of modern reggae, Cocoa Tea’s influence extended beyond his musical output. He helped shape the sound of dancehall in the ’80s and ’90s, a period that marked the rise of the genre internationally. Alongside contemporaries like Shabba Ranks, Beenie Man, and Buju Banton, Cocoa Tea helped define the dancehall movement, which saw Jamaican music break into global markets.
Cocoa Tea’s style was distinctly smooth, with a vocal delivery that set him apart from his peers. His songs, which often dealt with themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience, resonated deeply with audiences around the world. His smooth blend of reggae and dancehall elements made him one of the genre’s most recognizable voices. His contributions to the genre have earned him the respect and admiration of both fans and fellow artists, and his influence on subsequent generations of reggae musicians is immeasurable.
A Legend Remembered: Cocoa Tea’s Lasting Impact
Beyond his musical prowess, Cocoa Tea was known for his charisma and warm presence. Whether on stage or off, he captivated audiences with his energy, charm, and humility. His career spanned over four decades, and throughout it all, he maintained an unwavering commitment to his craft. Even as he faced his health battles, Cocoa Tea continued to inspire his fans with his resilience and positive outlook.
Fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to mourn his passing, sharing memories of the reggae legend and the impact he had on their lives. His death marks a significant loss to the music community, as he was one of the few remaining iconic figures from reggae’s golden age. As tributes pour in from across the globe, Cocoa Tea’s contributions to the reggae and dancehall scenes will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
Remembering the Man Behind the Music
Colvin Scott, known professionally as Cocoa Tea, will forever be remembered as one of the most influential reggae artists of his time. His music, characterized by its soulful delivery and socially conscious lyrics, touched the hearts of millions around the world. From his collaborations with reggae legends to his solo career, Cocoa Tea’s impact on the reggae and dancehall genres is undeniable.
As fans and fellow musicians reflect on his life and work, it’s clear that his legacy will live on through his timeless music. Cocoa Tea’s ability to fuse heartwarming melodies with profound lyrics earned him a permanent place in the pantheon of reggae greats.
In a world where music often changes with the times, Cocoa Tea’s sound remained timeless, and his influence will continue to be felt long after his passing. Rest in peace, Cocoa Tea. Your music and spirit will never be forgotten.
Final Thoughts: The End of an Era
Cocoa Tea’s death at 65 brings an end to an era in Jamaican music. His contributions to the reggae and dancehall scenes are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire artists and fans alike. While his passing leaves a hole in the music world, his timeless songs will keep his spirit alive for generations to come.
For those who want to celebrate the life and work of this iconic artist, his music remains available across streaming platforms, ensuring that Cocoa Tea’s influence will continue to touch hearts around the world. Rest in peace, Cocoa Tea, and thank you for the unforgettable music and memories.
