Malvia Scott told The Gleaner her husband died at 4:46 this morning. The veteran singer passed away from cardiac arrest at a hospital located in Broward, Ft Lauderdale, Florida. He reached 65 years of age before his death. Malvia received an early morning call informing her about his transfer from a medical facility to a nearby hospital because he started vomiting.
Doctors first diagnosed him with lymphoma back in 2019. During the past six months, he struggled with pneumonia complications as well. The creator of Nah Give Up maintained positive spirits throughout his health battles until the very end. Malvia, mother to three of his children, described him as definitely a very brave person who stayed positive during the entire ordeal.
About three weeks ago, when doctors admitted him to the hospital, he asked if she felt worried. She replied that she was always worried about him. He reassured her that everything would turn out fine and remained hopeful despite his condition. Culture Minister Olivia Grange expressed deep sadness upon hearing about Sweet Sweet Coco Tea leaving us.
She called him a long-standing industry staple whose legacy would endure forever. Grange believes he ranks among the greatest reggae singers who ever lived. She offered condolences to his family members and appreciated having worked with him over many years. The minister felt glad they recognized his contributions before his passing.
People knew him for his sweet, melodic voice and powerful chanting abilities. His final concert happened three years ago aboard the Welcome to Jamrock Cruise. In 2019, he performed at Buju Banton's historic Long Walk to Freedom concert held at Kingston National Stadium. That event marked a significant moment for reggae music lovers everywhere.
Born September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, he began making his name across Jamaica in 1985. His early hits included "I Lost My Sonia" and "Sweet, Sweet Cocoa Tea." These songs immediately connected with local audiences. His popularity expanded worldwide during the 1990s as his fan base grew substantially through international tours.
He thrilled audiences with memorable tracks like Israel's King, Weh Dem A Go Do, Can't Stop Cocoa Tea, Holy Mount Zion, and Rocking Dolly. His famous song "Rikers Island" later inspired dancehall artist Nardo Ranks. Ranks created "Me No Like Rikers Island," which was featured on the 1991 Columbia Records compilation Dancehall Reggaespañol. Each track showcased his unique musical perspective.
He launched the yearly New Year's Eve celebration Dancehall Jam Jam in 2003. The popular event continued until 2009, with plans for revival in 2015. After recording with major reggae labels, including VP Records, Greensleeves Records, and Ras Records, he established the Roaring Lion label around 2000. This business move demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit.
March 2008 brought renewed attention when he released Barack Obama, supporting the presidential candidate who later won the election. The timely track highlighted his awareness of international politics beyond music. He leaves behind his wife Malvia and eight children who carry forward his musical legacy for future generations.
Doctors first diagnosed him with lymphoma back in 2019. During the past six months, he struggled with pneumonia complications as well. The creator of Nah Give Up maintained positive spirits throughout his health battles until the very end. Malvia, mother to three of his children, described him as definitely a very brave person who stayed positive during the entire ordeal.
About three weeks ago, when doctors admitted him to the hospital, he asked if she felt worried. She replied that she was always worried about him. He reassured her that everything would turn out fine and remained hopeful despite his condition. Culture Minister Olivia Grange expressed deep sadness upon hearing about Sweet Sweet Coco Tea leaving us.
She called him a long-standing industry staple whose legacy would endure forever. Grange believes he ranks among the greatest reggae singers who ever lived. She offered condolences to his family members and appreciated having worked with him over many years. The minister felt glad they recognized his contributions before his passing.
People knew him for his sweet, melodic voice and powerful chanting abilities. His final concert happened three years ago aboard the Welcome to Jamrock Cruise. In 2019, he performed at Buju Banton's historic Long Walk to Freedom concert held at Kingston National Stadium. That event marked a significant moment for reggae music lovers everywhere.
Born September 3, 1959, in Rocky Point, Clarendon, he began making his name across Jamaica in 1985. His early hits included "I Lost My Sonia" and "Sweet, Sweet Cocoa Tea." These songs immediately connected with local audiences. His popularity expanded worldwide during the 1990s as his fan base grew substantially through international tours.
He thrilled audiences with memorable tracks like Israel's King, Weh Dem A Go Do, Can't Stop Cocoa Tea, Holy Mount Zion, and Rocking Dolly. His famous song "Rikers Island" later inspired dancehall artist Nardo Ranks. Ranks created "Me No Like Rikers Island," which was featured on the 1991 Columbia Records compilation Dancehall Reggaespañol. Each track showcased his unique musical perspective.
He launched the yearly New Year's Eve celebration Dancehall Jam Jam in 2003. The popular event continued until 2009, with plans for revival in 2015. After recording with major reggae labels, including VP Records, Greensleeves Records, and Ras Records, he established the Roaring Lion label around 2000. This business move demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit.
March 2008 brought renewed attention when he released Barack Obama, supporting the presidential candidate who later won the election. The timely track highlighted his awareness of international politics beyond music. He leaves behind his wife Malvia and eight children who carry forward his musical legacy for future generations.
