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Trust Khosa
Local reggae acts are expressing their heartfelt tributes to Jamaican crooner Colvin “Cocoa Tea” Scott, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 65.
His death has affected the reggae community, with many local artists reflecting on the impact he had on their music and lives.
Cocoa Tea was a phenomenal figure in the reggae scene, renowned for his exceptional songwriting skills and captivating stage presence.
He was especially adored in Zimbabwe, where fans celebrated his unique contributions to the genre and his ability to connect with audiences.
In honour of Cocoa Tea’s legacy, the organisers of the ReggaeBrunchZW Festival are planning a special segment titled “Classic Reggae Edition.”
This tribute will take place on March 22 at Sherwood Golf Club in Mabelreign, Harare, to celebrate the influence he had on reggae music and his lasting impact on artists in the region.
Local acts billed to perform at the event include Mannex Motsi, Ras Caleb, Cello Culture, Transit Crew, House of Stone Band, Satisfaction, Jeffari, Sista Kessia (aka Muchaneta), Moosafa King, and DJ Coolstany.
Festival coordinator Russel Mavudzi told The Herald Arts they will not let Cocoa Tea’s legacy go unnoticed.
“As ReggaeBrunchZW, we are deeply saddened by the loss of Cocoa Tea, an international reggae icon. His visit to Zimbabwe in 2011 at the Lion Lager Beer Festival played a pivotal role in inspiring local reggae artists and fostering a strong foundation for spreading love, peace, and unity through music.
” We will observe a minute of silence to honour his legacy. Our DJs, MCs, and artists will also pay tribute to him in their own special way, celebrating his impact on the reggae community,” he stressed.
Mavudzi, who has a deep-seated passion for reggae, added: “Crooners of Cocoa Tea’s calibre are hard to come by, as they have made an impact on the global scene.
“His music touched several generations, and we will continue honouring him in the best way we can. He loved Zimbabwe, as was shown when he visited us.”
Judging by the line-up, the event promises fireworks for reggae lovers.
The only sad aspect is that it comes at a time when the world has lost one of the best crooners in this particular genre.
The crooner, who succumbed to cardiac arrest, was initially diagnosed with lymphoma in 2019, according to The Gleaner newspaper of Jamaica.
Following the diagnosis six years ago, the “Nah Give Up” singer remained firm and resolute as he managed the illness.
“He was definitely very brave,” shared Malvia, who is the mother of three of Cocoa Tea’s children.
Buoyed by a sweet, melodic voice and powerful stage interaction, Cocoa Tea was a regular feature at major festivals.
In 2019, he performed at Buju Banton’s historic Long Walk to Freedom concert at the National Stadium in Kingston.
According to his biography, the crooner was born in Rocky Point, Clarendon, on September 3, 1959. He made a name for himself in Jamaica starting in 1985 with hits such as “I Lost My Sonia” and “Sweet Sweet Cocoa Tea.”
He became successful worldwide in the 1990s and expanded his fan base with popular songs, including “Israel’s King”, “Holy Mount Zion” and “Rocking Dolly,” among others.
In March 2008, the name Cocoa Tea was on the lips of many after he released a song titled “Barack Obama,” in support of the then US presidential candidate, who subsequently won the election.
He boasted several milestones that have made him one of Jamaica’s popular reggae ambassadors. Calm as ever, he preached the eternal gospel of having faith in God all the time, as well as love.
Many of his fans will also remember him for giving it all wherever he performed.
He was a creative genius who made the simple appear sophisticated and still managed to win the hearts of many.
Online Reporter