The reggae world is in mourning following the passing of legendary singer Cocoa Tea, who died on March 11, 2025, at the age of 65.
His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed that the beloved “hurry up and come” artist suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away at 4:46 a.m. in a hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
“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,” Malvia told Jamaica Gleaner. “He was initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019, but for the last six months he was also struggling with pneumonia.”
“He was definitely very brave,” she added. “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.”
Cocoa Tea, born Calvin George Scott on September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point Jamaica, was more than just a musician, he was a voice of consciousness, a beacon of positivity, and an irreplaceable figure in reggae music.
His smooth, melodious voice and socially relevant lyrics made him a household name, with hits spanning decades.
A Journey through Reggae greatness
Cocoa Tea’s musical journey began at just 14 years old with his first single, Searching in the Hills, but his real breakthrough came in the mid-1980s with tracks like Rocking Dolly and I Lost My Sonia.
His ability to blend deep cultural messages with dancehall and lovers’ rock made him a unique force in the reggae scene.
One of his most impactful songs, Rikers Island, became a massive hit in the late 1980s, warning young Jamaican immigrants about the dangers of the U.S. prison system.
It wasn’t just a song, it was a reality check, an anthem of caution, and a powerful reflection of the struggles many young men faced abroad.
In the 1990s and 2000s, Cocoa Tea remained a dominant presence in reggae music. In 2008, he made global headlines with his song Barack Obama, an endorsement of the then-presidential candidate. The track resonated with fans worldwide, proving that Cocoa Tea’s music was not just entertainment but a powerful medium of influence.
Beyond the music: Cocoa Tea’s lasting influence
Beyond his career as a singer, Cocoa Tea was a mentor, producer, and humanitarian. He founded Roaring Lion Records in 1997, nurturing young reggae talents and helping shape the future of the genre.
His generosity extended far beyond music. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness called him a “musical genius” and praised his philanthropy, highlighting how he used his platform to uplift others.
I extend condolences to the family, friends, and supporters of Calvin George Scott, affectionately known as Cocoa Tea.
— Andrew Holness (@AndrewHolnessJM) March 11, 2025
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… pic.twitter.com/dxeFC4ZGNk
Fans, fellow artists, and global figures have all paid tribute to the reggae icon, sharing stories of his kindness and unwavering commitment to positivity.
Cocoa Tea leaves behind his wife, Malvia, and their eight children, as well as an immortal legacy of music that continues to inspire generations.
His voice, his message, and his undeniable impact on reggae music will never fade. As fans around the world mourn his passing, his songs remain a testament to his artistry, wisdom, and love for his people.
Cocoa Tea may have left this world, but his music will continue to rock every dancehall party, every street corner, and every heart that finds solace in the rhythms of reggae.
