Cocoa Tea, born Calvin George Scott on September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Jamaica, was a reggae legend whose smooth vocals and conscious lyrics leaves an indelible mark on the music industry. His journey from humble beginnings to global recognition is a testament to his talent, dedication and heritage.

Early Life and Career

Cocoa Tea's musical journey began at the age of 14 when he recorded his first song, "Searching in the Hills." Despite initial setbacks, his passion for music never waned. He honed his skills in local dancehalls and sound systems, eventually finding success with hits like "Rocking Dolly" and "I Lost My Sonia".

Impact and Collaborations

Throughout his career, Cocoa Tea collaborated with numerous producers and artists, including Henry "Junjo" Lawes, King Jammy, and Shabba Ranks. His ability to blend traditional reggae sounds with contemporary influences helped keep the genre fresh and relevant. His music transcended reggae, influencing hip-hop and global sounds, with tracks like "Pirates Anthem" being sampled by Tupac Shakur.

Musical Influence on His Daughter, Coffee

Cocoa Tea's legacy extends to his daughter, Coffee, who is making waves in the music world. Inspired by her father's dedication and artistry, Coffee has carved out her own path in the industry, blending reggae with modern influences. Her success is a testament to Cocoa Tea's enduring impact on music and his role as a mentor and inspiration.

Legacy and Future Generations

Cocoa Tea's music continues to inspire new generations of artists. His commitment to social consciousness and positive change through music remains a guiding light for those following in his footsteps. As the reggae community mourns his passing, his legacy lives on through his timeless hits and the artists he influenced.

Social Media Tributes

Fans and fellow artists have flooded social media with tributes to Cocoa Tea. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness shared heartfelt words on Instagram, highlighting Cocoa Tea's contributions to music and his generosity. Here are some of the tributes:

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… pic.twitter.com/dxeFC4ZGNk

— Andrew Holness (@AndrewHolnessJM) March 11, 2025

Esheru added: 

The loss of a musical Legend. Cocoa Tea, his music has been part of the soundtrack of my life. A giant amongst men, he will be missed.

— Esheru (@EsheruKwaku) March 12, 2025

Conclusion

Cocoa Tea's life and music have left a legacy that will continue to resonate with fans and artists worldwide. His influence on reggae and beyond, coupled with his daughter's rising career, ensures that his impact will be felt for generations to come.