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COCOA TEA – The Smooth Voice of Conscious Dancehall

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COCOA TEA – The Smooth Voice of Conscious Dancehall

 

Curated Biography by The Reggae Museum

Exhibit Title: Sweet Like Cocoa – The Musical Mission of Calvin “Cocoa Tea” Scott

Gallery Section: Evolution of Reggae & Dancehall
Subsection: Conscious Voices of the Digital Era

Introduction

Among the waves of reggae and dancehall artists to emerge in the 1980s, Cocoa Tea stands out for his velvety voice, unshakable Rastafarian faith, and unapologetically conscious lyrics. He emerged at a time when the digital revolution was reshaping Jamaican music—and yet, he remained rooted in the foundations of roots reggae: spirituality, social justice, and lyrical integrity.

More than just a singer, Cocoa Tea is a cultural bridge—offering sweet melodies with messages that stir the soul.

Early Life & Musical Roots

Born Calvin George Scott on September 3, 1959, in Rock Hall, Clarendon Parish, Jamaica, Cocoa Tea’s musical journey began early. Like many reggae greats, he honed his voice in church and local sound systems, absorbing the teachings of Rastafari and the struggles of everyday Jamaicans.

His nickname “Cocoa Tea” came from his love for the popular hot beverage—but would soon come to symbolize the soothing richness of his voice.

In the late 1970s, he recorded his first single, but true success would come in the mid-1980s, when he aligned with legendary producer Henry “Junjo” Lawes and the Volcano sound system.

Breakthrough & Signature Hits

Cocoa Tea rose to fame during the digital dancehall explosion but stayed true to his roots-reggae consciousness. His sweet vocal delivery and militant messages made him stand out in an era that was increasingly slack and commercial.

Signature tracks include:

  • “Rikers Island” – A critique of incarceration and systemic injustice

  • “Rocking Dolly” – A dancehall staple and fan favorite

  • “She Loves Me Now” – Lovers rock elegance with a timeless feel

  • “Jah Made Them That Way” – A powerful affirmation of African identity

  • “Barack Obama” – A rare crossover hit that celebrated global Black pride

Cocoa Tea’s catalog is extensive, spanning themes of love, social justice, Rastafari, and Black liberation.

Rastafari & Lyrical Themes

An outspoken Bobo Ashanti Rastafarian, Cocoa Tea uses music as a vessel for spiritual and political activism. He sings about the plight of the poor, the greatness of Africa, and the importance of clean living and moral uprightness.

While he has flirted with dancehall riddims, his lyrics remain a moral compass in the genre—a reminder that reggae is not just for entertainment but also for edification.

International Reach

Cocoa Tea has performed on every major reggae stage, including:

  • Reggae Sunsplash

  • Reggae Sumfest

  • Rototom Sunsplash (Europe)

  • Sierra Nevada World Music Festival (U.S.)

He is celebrated globally for being a conscious crooner, whose live performances are spiritual, uplifting, and musically tight.

Mentorship & Independence

In the 1990s, Cocoa Tea launched his own label, Roaring Lion Records, promoting young talents and maintaining artistic independence. He has collaborated with:

  • Shabba Ranks

  • Cutty Ranks

  • Dennis Brown

  • Buju Banton

  • Chronixx (as an inspiration to the Reggae Revival movement)

Exhibit Features at The Reggae Museum

Located in the Digital Dancehall Era Wing, the Cocoa Tea exhibit features:

  • 🎙️ Replica microphone and riddim station where visitors can remix Cocoa Tea vocals

  • 🧥 Stage jackets and hats worn at Reggae Sumfest and European tours

  • 📀 Original 7″ and 12″ vinyl records of “Rocking Dolly,” “Informer,” and “Tune In”

  • 🎥 Documentary footage on his Obama anthem and global performances

  • 📜 Scroll wall of his most iconic lyrics, exploring Rastafari, repatriation, and love

  • 🎶 Interactive listening pod where guests can explore Cocoa Tea’s discography by era

Honors & Legacy

  • JaRIA Honoree (Jamaica Reggae Industry Association)

  • Lifetime Achievement Recognition from Reggae Sumfest

  • Celebrated in academic texts for blending roots lyrics with digital rhythms

  • Credited as a foundational voice of modern conscious reggae and dancehall

💬 Curator’s Reflection

To listen to Cocoa Tea is to drink in the very essence of Jamaica—its spirituality, struggles, and sweetness. His voice flows like the cocoa that gave him his name: comforting, rich, and healing. In an industry often defined by trends, Cocoa Tea has remained constant—delivering truth, love, and Jah messages with grace.

In honoring him at The Reggae Museum, we salute a man who reminds us that reggae is not just rhythm—it is righteousness.

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