Reggae legend Cocoa Tea passes away at 65

Another gem lost, another star faded, as Jamaican singer-songwriter Reggae legend Cocoa Tea passed away on Tuesday. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2019, battled with the disease for years and breathed his last at the age of 65. The singer who made it to the top after the 80s, was highly loved for his songs like ‘Rikers Island,’ ‘Young Lover,’ ‘Hurry Up & Come,’ and more.

According to a Hindustan Times report, the singer passed away at a hospital in Florida. In his final days, the Rikers Island hitmaker was suffering from pneumonia. This piece of information was revealed by his wife, Malvia Scott, to Jamaica Gleane.

“I got a call early this morning to say that he [Colvin] had been transferred from the facility to the hospital … which is like five minutes away … because he was vomiting,” Cocoa Tea’s wife told the outlet.

She added that Cocoa was “initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019.” However, for the last six months he was struggling with pneumonia.

With his deteriorating health conditions, it wasn’t easy for the singer to navigate through life, yet he didn’t give up. He faced adversities with a brave face. “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,’” his wife recalled.

“He told me not to worry because everything was going to be all right. He was always very hopeful,” she added.

Shortly after the news of Cocoa's demise broke, social media was flooded with heartfelt tributes. “Rest in power, Cocoa Tea. Your voice and music will always be remembered,” wrote The Wailers on X.

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness also grieved Cocoa and shared, “I extend condolences to the family, friends, and supporters of Calvin George Scott, affectionately known as Cocoa Tea,” he wrote.

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

May God give his family the strength to face this challenging time.