Cocoa Tea – Jamaican Reggae Artist

Cocoa Tea, born Calvin George Scott on September 3, 1959 in Rocky Point, Clarendon Parish, Jamaica, is a celebrated reggae and dancehall singer known for his smooth voice, conscious lyrics, and enduring appeal across generations. His nickname “Cocoa Tea” came from his childhood love of the traditional Jamaican drink.

Cocoa Tea began singing in his local church as a boy and recorded his first song, Searching in the Hills, in 1974, though it was not immediately released. His breakthrough came in the early 1980s, when he started recording for producer Henry “Junjo” Lawes, releasing hits like Rocking Dolly and I Lost My Sonia.

In 1984, he joined forces with King Jammy, a pivotal moment in his career. Together they crafted the hit “Come Again,” a tune that became an anthem of early digital dancehall and solidified his place in reggae history.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Cocoa Tea became known for blending conscious, Rastafarian themes with romantic and socially aware lyrics. Songs like Rikers Island, Tune In, and Barack Obama (a tribute to the former U.S. president) highlighted both his lyrical versatility and political engagement.

A devout Rastafarian, Cocoa Tea is also known for promoting peace, education, and respect in his music. He’s remained active into the 2000s and beyond, performing worldwide and running his own label, Roaring Lion Records.