A profound wave of grief is sweeping across the Caribbean and the global reggae community following the sudden passing of Stephen “Cat” Coore, the legendary co‑founder, guitarist, cellist, and musical director of the iconic band Third World. Coore, who died at 69, leaves behind more than five decades of musical innovation that helped define reggae’s evolution and carry Jamaican culture across continents. His loss is being felt intensely in Jamaica, Anguilla, Antigua, and throughout the wider Caribbean diaspora, where generations grew up on the sound of Third World and the unmistakable musical fingerprints of Cat Coore.
Third World, formed in 1973, became one of Jamaica’s most internationally celebrated bands, known for fusing reggae with soul, funk, jazz, R&B, rock, and even classical influences. Under Coore’s musical leadership, the group produced timeless classics such as “Now That We’ve Found Love,” “96 Degrees in the Shade,” and “Try Jah Love,” songs that helped propel reggae into new sonic territories and global stages. Their performances at major festivals, international tours, and historic collaborations cemented them as pioneers of reggae fusion, earning them a revered place in music history.
Advertisement
Cat Coore himself was a virtuoso whose mastery of both guitar and cello made him one of the most distinctive musicians in Caribbean music. Born on April 6, 1956, he brought a rare classical training into the heart of reggae, famously performing the Jamaican National Anthem on cello at Rebel Salute—an unforgettable moment that showcased his range and reverence for culture.
His contributions extended far beyond the studio and stage; he was a cultural ambassador whose artistry shaped the soundscape of Caribbean identity. His presence at events such as Moonsplash in Anguilla connected him deeply with island communities, where his performances became part of the region’s collective memory.
As tributes pour in from artists, fans, and cultural institutions worldwide, the magnitude of Cat Coore’s legacy becomes even clearer. His music was a bridge—between genres, generations, and geographies. His passing marks the end of an era, but the vibrations he created will continue to echo through sound systems, festivals, and hearts across the Caribbean and beyond.
Stephen “Cat” Coore was not just a musician; he was a pillar of reggae history, and his influence will endure for lifetimes to come.
His strings shaped the soundtrack of a people, a culture, and a movement—leaving behind a legacy that refuses to fade. Even in his absence, the world will continue to feel the pulse of his genius, carried forward in every note, every stage, and every soul his music ever touched.