The reggae world is mourning the loss of Calvin ‘Cocoa Tea’ Scott, the beloved singer whose smooth vocals and uplifting lyrics made him an icon in the genre. He passed away early this morning at a hospital in Broward, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, following a cardiac arrest. He was 65.
His wife, Malvia Scott, Confirmed the news with several media sources, sharing that Cocoa Tea had been struggling with health issues for some time. Initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019, he also battled pneumonia over the past six months. Despite his illness, she said he remained positive until the very end.
“He was definitely very brave,” Malvia shared. “About three weeks ago, when he was admitted to 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.”
Born in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, on September 3, 1959, Cocoa Tea rose to fame in the mid-1980s with hits such as ‘I Lost My Sonia’ and ‘Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea’. By the 1990s, he had gained international recognition, enchanting fans with classics like ‘Israel’s King’, ‘Holy Mount Zion’, ‘Rocking Dolly’, and ‘Weh Dem A Go Do…Can’t Stop Cocoa Tea’.
His song ‘Rikers Island’ became one of his most well-known tracks and was later adapted into a dancehall version by Nardo Ranks. Known for his honeyed vocals and powerful messages, Cocoa Tea remained a force in reggae, performing on stages worldwide.
Cocoa Tea is survived by his wife, Malvia, and eight children. His music and spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of fans across the globe.
As reggae lovers say goodbye to one of the genre’s purest voices, his message of love, resilience, and unity remains timeless. Rest in power, Cocoa Tea.