Reggae Icon Cocoa Tea Passes Away at 65

The reggae world is mourning the loss of Colvin "Cocoa Tea" Scott, the legendary singer known for his smooth, melodic voice and powerful messages. Cocoa Tea passed away early this morning at 4:46 AM at a hospital in Broward, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, following a cardiac arrest. He was 65 years old.

His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed his passing, sharing that he had been transferred to the hospital after experiencing vomiting. He was initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019 and had also been battling pneumonia for the past six months.

A Brave Spirit Until the End

Despite his health challenges, Cocoa Tea remained positive and resilient. His wife recalled his unwavering strength, even during his final days.

"He was definitely very brave," Malvia shared. "About three weeks ago, when he was admitted to the hospital, he asked if I was worried. I told him, 'I am always worried.' He reassured me, saying not to worry because everything was going to be all right. He was always very hopeful."

Tributes Pour In for a Reggae Legend

Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, expressed her deep sadness at his passing.

"He has been a staple in the industry for so long. He is one of the greatest reggae singers who has ever lived, and his work will stand the test of time. We salute him at this time ... condolences to his family. It has been a pleasure working with him over these years, and we are glad that we had the opportunity to give him some of his flowers while he was here with us. May his soul rest in peace."

A Legacy of Music and Influence

Born on September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Cocoa Tea first rose to prominence in 1985 with early hits such as I Lost My Sonia and Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea. Over the years, he became a global reggae icon, thrilling audiences with classics like Israel’s King, Weh Dem A Go Do... Can't Stop Cocoa Tea, Holy Mount Zion, and Rocking Dolly.

His song Rikers Island became one of his most well-known tracks and was later adapted into a dancehall version by Nardo Ranks, titled Me No Like Rikers Island.

Cocoa Tea performed at some of the biggest reggae events worldwide. His last live performance was three years ago on the "Welcome to Jamrock" Cruise. In 2019, he was a featured performer at Buju Banton’s historic "Long Walk to Freedom" concert at Kingston’s National Stadium.

Beyond his recording career, Cocoa Tea also made an impact as an event organizer, launching the Dancehall Jam Jam New Year’s Eve festival, which ran from 2003 to 2009, with plans to revive it in 2015. Around 2000, he took greater control of his music by founding his own Roaring Lion label, after previously working with top reggae labels like VP Records, Greensleeves Records, and Ras Records.

In 2008, Cocoa Tea made headlines with his politically charged song Barack Obama, in support of the then-U.S. presidential candidate, who later won the election.

Remembering Cocoa Tea

Cocoa Tea’s smooth voice, socially conscious lyrics, and unwavering contribution to reggae will continue to inspire generations to come. He is survived by his wife, Malvia, and eight children.

The reggae community has lost a giant, but his music will live on forever. Rest in power, Cocoa Tea.