Cocoa Tea: The Sweet Sound of Reggae

Cocoa Tea, a name synonymous with smooth reggae rhythms and conscious lyrics, stands out as one of the most enduring figures in the dancehall and reggae music scenes. With a career spanning several decades, his unique sound and thoughtful messages have resonated with audiences around the globe. Born Calvin Scott on September 3, 1959, in the small town of Rocky Point in Jamaica’s Clarendon parish, Cocoa Tea’s journey from a young choir singer to a reggae icon is a testament to his talent and perseverance.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Calvin Scott’s introduction to music began early in his life. He sang in church and school choirs, where he honed his vocal skills. By the age of 14, he was already recording music. His first single, “Searching in the Hills,” was produced by Willie Francis and released under his birth name. Unfortunately, the track didn’t gain much traction, leading young Calvin to explore other avenues.

For a short time, he worked as a racehorse jockey and later as a fisherman. However, music was never far from his heart. The sounds of traveling sound systems in local dancehalls rekindled his passion for music, and he began performing once again.

The Rise of Cocoa Tea

In 1983, Calvin Scott moved to Kingston, the heart of Jamaica’s music industry. It was here that he adopted the stage name Cocoa Tea, inspired by the Jamaican term for hot chocolate. His cool-toned and laid-back vocals caught the attention of dancehall producer Henry “Junjo” Lawes. Under Lawes’ guidance, Cocoa Tea released a series of hits including “Rocking Dolly,” “I Lost My Sonia,” “Informer,” and “Can’t Stop Cocoa Tea.”

Cocoa Tea’s first album, Weh Dem a Go Do…Can’t Stop Coco Tea, was released in 1985. It compiled many of his early successes. As his career progressed, he began to infuse Rastafarian themes into his music. This reflected his spiritual beliefs and cultural identity. This transition was marked by collaborations with producer King Jammy. It resulted in albums like The Marshall (1986) and Come Again (1987).

Collaborations and Major Hits

The late 1980s saw Cocoa Tea collaborating with other prominent artists. In 1989, he joined forces with Shabba Ranks and Home T to form a supergroup. Produced by King Jammy and Gussie Clarke, their album Holding On became a major hit in Jamaica. The singles “Pirates Anthem” and “Who She Love” further cemented Cocoa Tea’s place in the reggae music scene.

As a solo artist, Cocoa Tea continued to make waves with socially conscious tracks. In 1991, he released “Riker’s Island,” a commentary on societal issues. It became one of his biggest hits. His anti-Gulf War songs “Oil Ting” and “No Blood for Oil” showcased his willingness to tackle controversial topics. They even led to bans on radio in Jamaica and the UK.

Continued Success and Legacy

Throughout the 1990s, Cocoa Tea maintained his popularity with a string of successful releases. His collaboration with Philip “Fatis” Burrell produced hits like “Good Life.” Meanwhile, tracks such as “Israel King” and “I’m Not a King” kept him in the limelight. Notably, his mid-90s work was included in the compilation album Holy Mount Zion, released in 1997 by the legendary Motown label.

Cocoa Tea’s influence extended beyond the music charts. Known for his smooth lovers rock and poignant protest songs, he has inspired a generation of artists. Albums like One Way (1998) and Feel the Power (2001) further showcased his versatility and enduring appeal.

Conclusion

Cocoa Tea’s career is a testament to the power of reggae music to inspire and provoke thought. From his early days in Rocky Point to becoming a reggae icon, his journey has been marked by a commitment to his craft and his message. With a distinctive voice and a legacy of great music, Cocoa Tea continues to be a beloved figure in the reggae world. He proves that true talent and passion never go out of style. Whether through his sweet lovers rock or his sharp social commentary, Cocoa Tea’s music remains a vibrant part of reggae’s rich tapestry.