Remembering Cocoa Tea: A Legacy in Reggae Music
Calvin George Scott, better known by his stage name Cocoa Tea, has passed away at the age of 65. The renowned reggae singer died on Tuesday due to cardiac arrest in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed the sad news to the Jamaica Gleaner, revealing that he had been diagnosed with lymphoma and pneumonia in recent years.
A Brave Fighter
In her conversation with the Gleaner, Malvia Scott expressed her husband’s courage throughout his illness. “He was definitely very brave,” she said. “He was positive throughout it all. About three weeks ago when he was admitted in the hospital he asked if I was worried and I said ‘I am always worried’. He told me not to worry because everything was going to be all right. He was always very hopeful.”
The Rise of a Musical Icon
Born in the quaint village of Rocky Point, Jamaica, Cocoa Tea’s influence on the music scene was profound. His warm, romantic vocals became signature elements within the genres of dancehall and lovers rock. He rose to prominence in the 1980s with iconic singles such as “Rocking Dolly” and “I Lost My Sonia.” His debut album, “Weh Dem a Go Do…Can’t Stop Cocoa Tea,” solidified his status as a reggae superstar both locally and on the global stage.
Cocoa Tea’s discography expanded to include titles like “The Marshall” and “Come Again,” which incorporated themes of spirituality and Rastafarianism. He also formed a supergroup alongside Shabba Ranks and Home T, producing hits like “Holding On.”
Musical Activism and Continued Success
As the 1990s transitioned the genre into a grittier phase, Cocoa Tea remained relevant by addressing social issues through his music. After relocating to New York, he released the notable single “Riker’s Island” in 1991, along with anti-war songs such as “No Blood for Oil” and “Oil Ting,” which faced radio bans in Jamaica and the U.K. due to their critical messages regarding the Gulf War.
The artist continued producing genre-defining tracks throughout the decade, collaborating with prestigious reggae labels like Greensleeves and VP. In 1997, Motown released the compilation album “Holy Mt. Zion.” Cocoa Tea also launched his own label, Roaring Lion, fostering talent including artists like Buju Banton, Cutty Ranks, and Sizzla. His tribute to President Obama in the form of a single released in 2008 highlighted his adaptability and engagement with current events.
Lasting Impact and Recognition
Cocoa Tea’s performances remained a significant part of his career, including notable appearances at Buju Banton’s Long Walk to Freedom concert in Kingston in 2019 and on the Welcome to Jamrock cruise three years ago. His contributions to Jamaican music did not go unnoticed. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness took to Instagram to express condolences, stating, “I extend condolences to the family, friends, and supporters of Calvin George Scott, affectionately known as Cocoa Tea. His smooth vocals and compelling lyrics gave us timeless classics like ‘Rocking Dolly’ and ‘I’ve Lost My Sonia,’ songs that have become anthems in our cultural landscape.”
Holness emphasized Cocoa Tea’s broader impact as well, noting, “Beyond his musical genius, Cocoa Tea was a beacon of kindness and generosity, consistently uplifting the less fortunate and embodying the warmth of our nation.”
Survived by Family
Cocoa Tea leaves behind his wife, Malvia, and eight children. His legacy will continue to resonate through his music and the many lives he touched throughout his career.
