The reggae community is in mourning following the death of legendary Jamaican singer Colvin ‘Cocoa Tea’ Scott. The iconic artist, known for his smooth vocals and socially conscious lyrics, passed away at the age of 65 after suffering a cardiac arrest. His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed that he died at 4:46 am on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at a hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Born on September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon Parish, Jamaica, Cocoa Tea’s musical journey began at just 14 years old with his debut single, Searching In The Hills, in 1974. Despite facing early setbacks, he persevered and rose to prominence in the 1980s with hits like Rocking Dolly and I Lost My Sonia. His ability to blend melodic rhythms with powerful messages made him one of the most beloved voices in reggae music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Cocoa Tea was celebrated for classic tracks such as Rikers Island, Young Lover, and Jah Made Them That Way. His 2008 song in support of then-presidential candidate Barack Obama demonstrated his ability to merge music with contemporary socio-political themes, further cementing his global influence.
In 2019, Cocoa Tea was diagnosed with lymphoma, a battle he fought with remarkable resilience. However, in the past six months, he had been struggling with pneumonia, which further deteriorated his health. Despite these challenges, he remained an inspiration, with his music continuing to spread messages of love, unity, and resistance.
The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the music industry, with fans and fellow artists paying tribute to his remarkable legacy. Cocoa Tea’s contributions to reggae have left an indelible mark, influencing generations of musicians and listeners.
As the world reflects on his incredible journey—from humble beginnings in Clarendon Parish to international stardom—it is clear that Cocoa Tea
