Legendary reggae artist Cocoa Tea died on Tuesday morning at 65, his wife Malvia Scott confirmed to Jamaica Gleaner. She revealed that he suffered cardiac arrest earlier in the day in Ft. 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. He was initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019, but for the last six months he was also struggling with pneumonia," she told the outlet.
Cocoa Tea had been battling illness since December, which led to a hospitalization a few weeks ago. "About three weeks ago when he was admitted in the hospital he asked if I was worried and I said 'I am always worried,'" she said. "He told me not to worry because everything was going to be all right."
Cocoa Tea's Legacy
Cocoa Tea was best known for his songs, "Riker's Island," "Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea," and "Young Lover" among many others. He released his final album, Sunset in Negril, in 2014. In the wake of Cocoa Tea's death, several celebrities have been sharing tributes on social media. Popcaan posted a video of him performing at Unruly Fest on Instagram.
The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, also posted a statement expressing his condolences on X (formerly Twitter). "I extend condolences to the family, friends, and supporters of Calvin George Scott, affectionately known as Cocoa Tea. 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 landscape," Holness wrote. "Beyond his musical genius, Cocoa Tea was a beacon of kindness and generosity, consistently uplifting the less fortunate and embodying the warmth of our nation. Cocoa Tea’s influence extended beyond our shores, touching hearts worldwide and solidifying Jamaica’s place on the global musical stage. 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."
