Reggae Icon Cocoa Tea Dies at 65

A Reggae Luminary Silenced: The Life and Legacy of Cocoa Tea

The world of reggae music was cast into mourning on the morning of October 4, 2023, with the news of the passing of Colvin "Cocoa Tea" Scott. The celebrated singer, producer, and dancehall icon, whose smooth vocals and conscious lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, succumbed to cardiac arrest at a hospital in Broward, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, at the age of 65. His passing marks the end of an era for reggae, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill. Cocoa Tea’s journey, from his humble beginnings in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, to his international acclaim, is a testament to his talent, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

Born on September 3, 1959, Cocoa Tea’s musical career blossomed in the vibrant 1980s dancehall scene. He quickly rose to prominence with hits like "I Lost My Sonia" and "Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea," capturing the hearts of fans with his distinctive melodic style and relatable storytelling. His music transcended mere entertainment; it carried powerful messages of love, loss, social commentary, and spiritual reflection. This depth and authenticity cemented his place as a respected artist, earning him a dedicated following that spanned generations and geographical boundaries. His influence extended beyond his own performances, as he also nurtured emerging talents through his work as a producer, further enriching the tapestry of reggae music.

Cocoa Tea’s musical journey was not without its challenges. In 2019, he was diagnosed with lymphoma, a diagnosis that he faced with courage and unwavering optimism, according to his wife, Malvia Scott. Even in his final days, he maintained a positive spirit, assuring his loved ones that everything would be alright. His resilience in the face of adversity mirrored the strength and perseverance often reflected in his music, serving as an inspiration to both his fans and fellow artists. His battle with lymphoma, compounded by bouts of pneumonia in the last six months of his life, ultimately led to his untimely passing.

The news of Cocoa Tea’s death reverberated throughout the reggae community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes. Jamaica’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, recognized his immense contribution to the genre, hailing him as one of the greatest reggae singers of all time. His music, she acknowledged, would undoubtedly stand the test of time, continuing to inspire and uplift listeners for generations to come. This sentiment was echoed by countless fans and fellow musicians who took to social media and other platforms to express their condolences and celebrate his enduring legacy.

Cocoa Tea’s final public performance took place three years before his passing, gracing the stage of the Welcome to Jamrock Cruise. His last major appearance on Jamaican soil was in 2019 at Buju Banton’s historic Long Walk to Freedom concert at the National Stadium in Kingston. These performances served as poignant reminders of his enduring stage presence and the powerful connection he forged with his audience. Though his physical presence is now absent, his music continues to resonate, serving as a constant reminder of his artistic genius.

Cocoa Tea’s legacy is etched not just in the annals of reggae history but in the hearts of countless individuals whose lives were touched by his music. His smooth vocals, conscious lyrics, and unwavering spirit resonated deeply with a global audience, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. He leaves behind a rich musical catalogue that will continue to inspire and uplift future generations. His story is one of talent, resilience, and a deep-seated passion for his craft – a testament to the enduring power of music to connect, heal, and inspire. He will be remembered not only as a reggae icon but as a true artist whose music served as a soundtrack to the lives of many.