In a heartbreaking turn of events, reggae star Calvin George Scott, widely known as Cocoa Tea, has passed away at the age of 65. The beloved icon breathed his last on Tuesday morning in a Florida hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest, leaving behind a legacy that has profoundly shaped reggae music. His devoted wife, Malvia Scott, revealed the tragic circumstances surrounding his final moments, sharing that Cocoa had been battling serious health issues, including lymphoma and pneumonia, for several years.
The news has sent shockwaves through the reggae community, as fans and fellow artists mourn the loss of a true legend. Cocoa Tea, renowned for his smooth voice and socially conscious lyrics, has given the world unforgettable classics like “Rocking Dolly” and “Lost My Sonia.” His music resonated not just in Jamaica but across the globe, making him a household name and a national treasure.
As tributes pour in from around the world, Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness expressed his condolences, highlighting Cocoa’s significant impact on Jamaican culture. Fellow artists, including Beenie Man and Damian Marley, have shared their sorrow, recalling Cocoa as a mentor and a guiding light in the reggae movement. Even in his final days, Cocoa remained hopeful, reassuring Malvia that everything would be alright, embodying the resilience that characterized both his life and his music.
Cocoa Tea’s funeral service will take place in Jamaica, where fans are expected to gather to pay their respects. The atmosphere is sure to be heavy with grief yet filled with love, as the world remembers the man whose voice brought joy to millions. His legacy, marked by timeless melodies and messages of unity, will forever resonate within the rich tapestry of reggae history. Cocoa Tea may be gone, but his spirit and influence will never fade.