Reggae icon Cocoa Tea dies at 65

Cocoa Tea, the prolific reggae singer, has d!ed at the age of 65.

The musician’s wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed his de@th in Broward, Fort Lauderdale, Florid, on Tuesday, March 11, to the Jamaican Gleaner. 

“I got a call early this morning to say that he had been transferred from the facility to the hospital … which is like five minutes away … because he was vomiting. He was initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019, but for the last six months he was also struggling with pneumonia,” she told the outlet. 

Despite the singer’s diagnosis years ago, Malvia said he remained positive, calling him “brave” and “hopeful.”   

“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,” she added. 

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness also paid tribute to the singer on X. 

“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 Lost My Sonia, songs that have become anthems in our cultural landscape,” Holness wrote. 

“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,” he added. “Cocoa Tea’s influence extended beyond our shores, touching hearts worldwide and solidifying Jamaica’s place on the global musical stage.” 

“As we mourn his passing, let us celebrate the rich legacy he leaves behind, a legacy of melody, compassion, and cultural pride,” the Prime Minister concluded. “May his soul rest in eternal peace.”