Reggae icon Cocoa Tea has sadly passed away at the age of 65 after battling cancer since 2019. The Jamaican singer-songwriter, whose real name was Colvin Scott, died early Tuesday morning in a Florida hospital. His wife, Malvia Scott, shared with Jamaica Gleaner that in the days before his death, he had been dealing with pneumonia.

Cocoa Tea passes away at 65 following a fight against pneumonia and cancer

I got a call early this morning letting me know that Colvin had been moved from the facility to the hospital, which is just five minutes away, because he was throwing up, Malvia shared with the outlet. She mentioned that Cocoa was first diagnosed with lymphoma back in 2019 but had been battling pneumonia for the past six months.

Cocoa's wife also highlighted his courage during tough times. “He stayed positive through everything. About three weeks ago, when he was in the hospital, he asked if I was worried, and I told him, ‘I’m always worried,’” she remembered.

“He reassured me not to stress because everything would be okay. He was always so hopeful,” Malvia said about her husband. Cocoa, known for hits like Rikers Island, Young Lover, Hurry Up & Come, and Waiting In Vain, was one of the most beloved Jamaican singers since the '80s.

As soon as news of Cocoa's passing spread, fans took to social media to honor the reggae legend. “Rest in power, Cocoa Tea. Your voice and music will always be remembered,” The Wailers posted on X.

Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness also expressed his condolences on his official X account, mourning Cocoa's death. “I extend my sympathies to the family, friends, and fans of Calvin George Scott, known to many as Cocoa Tea,” he wrote.

Holness described Cocoa as “a beacon of kindness and generosity” who always supported “the less fortunate” and represented “the warmth of our nation.” “As we grieve his loss, let’s celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind—a legacy filled with melody, compassion, and cultural pride. May his soul find eternal peace,” the Prime Minister added.

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