ICONIC Jamaican singer-songwriter Cocoa Tea, best known for his 90s hit song Riker’s Island, has died aged 65.
The reggae singer, born Calvin Scott, passed away early on Tuesday morning at a hospital in Florida, US, after suffering a cardiac arrest.
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His heartbroken wife Malvia Scott told the Jamaica Gleaner how she received a call early today confirming he had been transferred from a facility to hospital due to vomiting.
She explained Cocoa Tea had been diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019 but had also struggled with pneumonia over the past six months.
Malvia confirmed the veteran singer died at 4.46am on Tuesday morning at the hospital in Broward, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Mum to three of Cocoa Tea’s Children, she added: “He was definitely very brave – 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’ – he told me not to worry because everything was going to be all right.
“He was always very hopeful.”
Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness has also paid tribute to the singer’s “musical genius” in a moving tribute.
In a post on X, he said: “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.
“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.”
The politician added: “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.”
Calvin Scott was born in the fishing village of Rocky Point in Jamaica on September 3, 1959, and went on to become one of the most popular singers on the island from the 1980s onwards.
He also achieved significant worldwide success in the reggae world, following his first venture into the music industry aged just 14.
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