KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican music community is in mourning following the sudden passing of legendary musician Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore at age 69. The co-founder and musical director of iconic reggae band Third World died on Sunday, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the nation’s cultural landscape.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness publicly honored Coore’s extraordinary contributions, characterizing him as a monumental figure in Jamaica’s cultural history and a fundamental architect of the country’s global musical identity. Through an official statement on social media platform X, Holness emphasized how Coore’s work with Third World created a distinctive sound that transported Jamaica’s rhythm, spirit, and message to international audiences worldwide.
“His artistic approach combined technical mastery with profound cultural awareness,” Holness noted, “producing music that remains both eternally relevant and distinctly Jamaican in character.”
The Prime Minister further highlighted Coore’s role as a genuine cultural ambassador who represented Jamaica with exceptional dignity, excellence, and national pride. His pioneering contributions to the creative arts, Holness stated, significantly enriched Jamaica’s national identity while inspiring multiple generations of musicians both within the country and across the global music scene.
Recognizing Coore’s previous honor of receiving the Order of Distinction for his cultural contributions, Holness extended official condolences on behalf of the Jamaican government and its citizens. The Prime Minister specifically addressed sympathies to Coore’s wife Lisa, his children, grandchildren, family members, fellow bandmates, and the international community of admirers whose lives were profoundly impacted by his artistic work.
“May his musical legacy endure as a perpetual reminder of our national identity,” Holness concluded, “and demonstrate the unique power of Jamaican creativity to foster global unity through artistic expression.”