Tribute To Cocoa Tea: A Reggae Icon Who Touched Hearts

11 March 2025

Image: Wikipedia 

The reggae world mourns the loss of one of its most beloved voices, Calvin George Scott, known to fans across the globe as Cocoa Tea. Born on March 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, Cocoa Tea became one of the most influential figures in reggae and dancehall, captivating audiences with his smooth, melodic voice and conscious lyrics.

Cocoa Tea's music was more than just entertainment—it was a beacon of wisdom, love, and spiritual upliftment. His signature style, blending roots reggae, lovers rock, and dancehall, made him a household name from the 1980s onwards. Songs like "Rikers Island," "18 and Over," "Love Me Truly," and "Good Life" spoke to both the struggles and joys of life, resonating deeply with fans worldwide. His 2008 anthem "Barack Obama" became a powerful musical statement of hope and unity during the historic U.S. presidential election. It demonstrated Cocoa Tea’s ability to use his platform to inspire and reflect the times.

^{Image By Beth Lesser: Cocoa Tea}

Growing up in the heart of Clarendon, Cocoa Tea's love for music started early. He recorded his first song, "Searching in the Hills," in 1974, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that he truly found his footing in the reggae industry. His breakthrough came when he joined Jah Life and Junjo Lawes' Volcano label, where he delivered hits that remain timeless classics.As his career progressed, he worked with legendary producers like King Jammy, Bobby Digital, and Fatis Burrell, crafting a sound that was both unique and universally adored. His ability to glide effortlessly between roots reggae and digital dancehall solidified his status as one of the greatest voices to ever bless reggae music.

Cocoa Tea’s impact on reggae is immeasurable. His songs remain a staple in reggae sessions, radio playlists, and dancehall clashes. His legacy is one of positivity, consciousness, and love, proving that reggae music is not just a genre but a movement of spiritual and social awareness.As we bid farewell to this legendary singer, his music will continue to inspire generations to come. His voice may be physically gone, but the rhythm of his soul lives on in the heartbeat of reggae music. 

Rest In Power, Cocoa Tea. Your voice will never fade.

Video: COCOA TEA - LIVE @ REGGAE GEEL 2018 BELGIUM (Filmed & Edited by: Team Reggae Live Concerts]