It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the illustrious Jamaican reggae singer and songwriter, Cocoa Tea, who passed away on the morning of March 11, 2025, in a Fort Lauderdale, Florida hospital. The 65-year-old artist succumbed to cardiac arrest following severe vomiting episodes, a culmination of his ongoing battle with lymphoma.
Colvin George Scott, known professionally as Cocoa Tea, leaves behind a rich legacy of music and memories. His wife, Malvia Scott, confirmed the news to the Jamaica Gleaner, revealing that his health had declined significantly after a pneumonia diagnosis six months prior to his passing. Cocoa Tea’s courageous spirit was evident in his battle against this illness, which he had been facing since his diagnosis in 2019.
“He was definitely very brave. He was positive throughout it all. 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,” she stated.
The news of his death has sparked a wave of tributes, including a heartfelt message from Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness. Speaking via Instagram, the Prime Minister expressed his condolences, noting Cocoa Tea’s significant contributions to reggae music.
“I extend condolences to the family, friends, and supporters of Colvin 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,’ which have become anthems in our cultural landscape,”Holness wrote.
He continued, stating, “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… May his soul rest in eternal peace.” The Prime Minister emphasized Cocoa Tea’s influence not just in Jamaica but globally, highlighting how his music solidified Jamaica’s presence in the world of music.
A Glimpse Into Cocoa Tea’s Life and Legacy
Cocoa Tea was born Calvin George Scott on September 3, 1959, in Clarendon, Jamaica. He launched his music career at only 14 years old, releasing his first album, Searching in the Hills, in 1985. After a brief hiatus for other pursuits, he made a comeback in 1984 when he signed with Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes’ Volcano label, adopting the stage name Cocoa Tea, leading to iconic hits such as “Lost My Sonia” and “Rocking Dolly.”
His rise to stardom produced a series of acclaimed tracks, including “Young Lover,” “Children of the Ghetto,” and “Holding On.” Cocoa Tea performed at every Reggae Sunsplash and toured extensively, sharing his music with fans worldwide. Notably, he recorded a song titled “Barack Obama” in 2008, celebrating the former U.S. President.
In the early 2000s, he founded his record label, Roaring Lion Records, and collaborated with prominent artists like Buju Banton and Sizzla. Cocoa Tea also played a significant role in organizing the Dancehall Jam Jam event, which took place annually on New Year’s Eve in Jamaica.
His last performance was three years ago on the Welcome To Jamrock Cruise, and he was also featured in the historic Long Walk to Freedom concert for Buju Banton in 2019. Survived by his wife, Malvia Scott, and eight children, Cocoa Tea leaves behind a profound impact on reggae music.
In addition to the Prime Minister, Jamaican Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, paid tribute to Cocoa Tea, expressing her sadness at his passing.
“It has been a pleasure working with him over these years, and we are glad that we had the opportunity to give him some of [his] flowers while he was here with us. May his soul rest in peace,” Olivia noted.
Grange recognized Cocoa Tea as a “staple” of the reggae industry, asserting his status as one of the greatest reggae singers of all time and extending condolences to his family.
For more information on Cocoa Tea’s profound impact on music, please refer to this source.