分类： entertainment

The international music scene has been struck by profound sorrow with the sudden demise of Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, the revered guitarist, cellist, and foundational pillar of the legendary band Third World. Coore, an iconic ambassador of reggae music, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 18, 2026, in Jamaica.

This tragic event arrives scarcely two months after the industry mourned the loss of Jimmy Cliff, compounding a period of significant grief for reggae enthusiasts worldwide. Band Manager Heather Cameron, in an emotional tribute, characterized Coore as the very embodiment of music and a proud carrier of Jamaica’s spirit across the globe. ‘Music was him, music is him. He represented the soundtrack of our lives,’ Cameron stated, reflecting the shock felt by his inner circle given his active international schedule through December.

Beyond his monumental musical contributions, Coore’s legacy is profoundly marked by his humanitarian endeavors. He served as a long-standing Goodwill Ambassador for the Issa Trust Foundation, channeling efforts into the ‘For The Children’ initiative to enhance pediatric healthcare across Jamaica. Furthermore, as a prominent advocate for the Alligator Head Foundation, he championed marine conservation, battling critical issues like overfishing and plastic pollution.

Fellow bandmate Tony ‘Ruption’ Williams, who joined Third World in 1997, reminisced about Coore’s dual nature as a world-class guitarist and an incessantly jovial personality. ‘He was one of the greatest guitarists in the world, but he was also the nicest, most jovial person… a true humanitarian,’ Williams shared, underscoring the deep personal loss.

In the wake of this passing, the remaining members of Third World have resolved to perpetuate the band’s enduring legacy. Cameron affirmed that the music, a continuous and eternal force, would not cease. The band plans to honor Coore’s memory by continuing to perform their timeless catalog, a testament to a shared history that includes members like Richard Daley from the foundation days and Norris Webb with over two decades of tenure.

The timing of Coore’s passing, on the eve of Jamaica’s Reggae Month in February and the band’s 50th anniversary, adds a layer of poignant significance. Ewan Simpson, Chairman of the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), urged the community to utilize this period to celebrate Coore’s vast contributions, expressing confidence in the band’s ability to endure beyond its original members.

As the musical director of Third World, Coore was the architect of a distinctive ‘reggae-fusion’ sound that propelled Jamaican music onto the global stage. His innovative incorporation of the cello, an unusual choice for the genre, became a signature element of the band’s sophisticated style and symbolized his lifelong mission to expand reggae’s artistic boundaries through classics like ’96 Degrees in the Shade’ and ‘Now That We’ve Found Love’.

The landscape of Jamaican wedding fashion is undergoing a sophisticated transformation, with mother-of-the-bride attire leading a revolution in style that harmoniously blends global influences with island sensibilities. By 2026, these pivotal figures are embracing ensembles that reflect confidence, cultural pride, and a paramount emphasis on comfort tailored for the Caribbean’s vibrant celebrations.

A defining trend for the upcoming season is the strategic use of color. Moving beyond traditional champagne and neutrals, Jamaican mothers are opting for rich jewel tones—emerald green, sapphire blue, deep coral, and wine—that radiate sophistication against the backdrop of lush gardens and azure coastlines. For daytime and garden ceremonies, soft pastels like blush, dusty lavender, and muted peach create a serene elegance, particularly when accentuated by tropical floral arrangements. The guiding principle remains achieving visual harmony with the wedding’s palette rather than exact matching.

Silhouette design prioritizes both elegance and practicality to accommodate outdoor and semi-open venues. Flowing A-line gowns, tailored column dresses, and structured midi-length styles dominate preferences. Innovative design elements such as cape sleeves, sheer overlays, and soft draping provide stylish coverage while facilitating essential airflow. The trend towards adaptability continues with detachable wraps or capelets, enabling seamless transition from sun-drenched ceremonies to cooler evening receptions.

Fabric selection is critically important in the tropical climate, with heavy materials being replaced by breathable luxury textiles. Silk satin, chiffon, organza, and lightweight embroidered tulle emerge as favorites for their ability to combine aesthetic appeal with enduring comfort. For evening affairs, subtle metallic threads and delicate embellishments introduce glamour without compromising practicality in the warmth.

Accessories follow a philosophy of purposeful elegance. Statement earrings, heirloom jewelry, and refined hairpieces replace heavier headwear, while fascinators are reimagined with feathers and floral motifs. Footwear trends pragmatically address venue diversity with block heels, wedges, and embellished flats providing stability on beaches, lawns, and historic properties.

The ultimate luxury in 2026 is defined as comfort through intelligent design. Features like stretch linings, built-in support, and relaxed tailoring ensure mothers can participate fully in every celebration moment—from ceremonial processions to extended dance sessions. This approach recognizes that true elegance emerges when personal comfort aligns with stylistic expression.

This evolution in mother-of-the-bride fashion celebrates individual identity within the collective joy of Jamaican weddings. The carefully curated attire not only enhances the wedding’s visual narrative but also honors the mother’s essential role, allowing her to embody grace and confidence during one of life’s most meaningful occasions.

The music community is paying tribute to Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, the visionary guitarist and co-founder of legendary reggae band Third World, who passed away in Kingston on June 18 at age 69. Former bandmate Willie Stewart, who drummed with Third World for over two decades, has characterized Coore as “a musical genius like no other” whose innovative approach fundamentally transformed reggae music.

Coore established Third World in 1973 alongside keyboardist Ibo Cooper following their departure from Inner Circle. Together with Stewart, percussionist Irvin ‘Carrot’ Jarrett, lead singer Bunny Rugs, and bassist Richie Daley, they formed the classic lineup that produced iconic hits including ‘Now That We Found Love,’ ‘Try Jah Love,’ and ‘Always Around.’ Stewart and Daley remain the sole surviving members of this seminal configuration.

Stewart reflected on their enduring connection that began during their school years at Wolmer’s Boys’ High School and Priory. “Cat was in Alley Cats in Barbican, while I was in Visions in Liguanea and Ibo was in Riddims in Mona,” Stewart recounted. Their collective journey through Inner Circle eventually culminated in Third World’s formation—a band that would boldly fuse reggae with pop and funk elements, ultimately bringing Jamaican music to international prominence.

Third World’s distinctive sound—blending reggae, rock, funk, and R&B while drawing inspiration from acts like The Wailers, Santana, and Earth, Wind & Fire—captured the attention of music legends including Stevie Wonder, who collaborated on writing ‘Try Jah Love.’

Stewart fondly recalled their final performances together at the 2023 Rhythms of Africa show and later at Ibo Cooper’s memorial celebration. “Even after all the years, the music was still magical. Same vibration. Same spirit. Same fire. Same love,” he expressed.

In his emotional tribute, Stewart extended condolences to Coore’s wife, children Shiah, Kanna, Stephen, and Ashley, and all who cherished him. “Cat has now crossed over and joined our other founding brothers, Ibo, Carrot and Bunny Rugs, who have gone into the Dreamland we played and sang about so many years ago,” Stewart stated. “His work will never die. His impact can never be overshadowed. He lives on through his music, through his children, and forever set in the culture of Jamaica as a Reggae Ambassador for life.”

In an era where roots reggae had largely faded from mainstream prominence, producer Garfield Cowan found inspiration in the genre’s foundational One Drop rhythm. His Florida-based Natures Way Entertainment, in collaboration with Sweet Waters Spawn Music, has now released “Roots Rock Reggae Riddim,” a nine-track compilation that consciously resurrects this iconic 1970s beat.

The album features established reggae artists including Zamunda/Fantan Mojah, Anthony B, Ginjah, and Iba Mahr, each contributing tracks that blend traditional sounds with contemporary consciousness. The project originated with the recording of Zamunda and Fantan Mojah’s title track, whose positive energy ultimately inspired a full-scale compilation.

Cowan explained the selective curation process: “We sought artists recognized for their authentic consciousness, vocal prowess, and cultural respect. The vision centered on voices that could genuinely embody the One Drop tradition with conviction rather than mere stylistic imitation.”

Notable tracks include Anthony B’s “Like A Mirror,” Ginjah’s “Lover Not A Fighter,” and Iba Mahr’s “Heavy Load.” Founded in 2010, Natures Way Entertainment emerged from Cowan’s admiration for 1990s smooth reggae pioneers like Beres Hammond and Garnet Silk.

While the label previously achieved commercial success with the Sweet Personality Riddim (featuring hits by Wayne Wonder and Jah Cure), Cowan emphasizes that replication isn’t his objective. “Sweet Personality was an organic classic. With Roots Rock Reggae, our focus remains on purposeful, quality music rather than recreating past achievements,” he stated.

The vibrant tapestry of Jamaican culture takes center stage at the third annual Jamaica Brew Literary and Film Festival, orchestrated by the Consulate of Jamaica in Miami. Scheduled for Saturday, January 31, at the Broward South West Regional Library in Pembroke Pines, the event promises a rich exploration of creative expression. The day commences at 9:00 AM with complimentary Blue Mountain coffee, honoring Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Day (January 9), alongside a bustling marketplace for book signings by a diverse ensemble of authors and poets. A compelling schedule of special presentations unfolds throughout the day, culminating in a two-hour short film showcase concluding at 5:00 PM.

Consul General Oliver Mair articulated the festival’s core mission: to platform Jamaica’s creative industries and provide a global stage for its narratives. “It’s an event that’s a platform to tell our stories to the world – about our worth and who we are as a people,” Mair stated. A notable new addition for this year is the ‘Children’s Corner,’ dedicated to the legacy of cultural icon Louise ‘Miss Lou’ Bennett Coverly. This interactive space will feature traditional Ring-Ding games and filmmaking workshops led by writer-director Cleon A. James, set within an area showcasing exhibitions from emerging artists.

The festival’s thematic anchor is resilience, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. This narrative thread will be powerfully woven through video features documenting recovery efforts and a dedicated panel discussion. Acclaimed dub poet Malachi Smith will lead a conversation on this theme, informed by his recent nomadic college tour to schools in hurricane-affected regions. Author and farmer Keith Wedderburn will share his firsthand account from his latest book, ‘Give Thanks For Life – Surviving Hurricane Melissa.’

Serving as a poignant prelude to Black History Month, the festival will also delve into historical cultural resistance. A special presentation will examine the life of Alexander Bedward and his establishment of the Jamaica Native Free Baptist Church, a movement that challenged colonial religious structures. The Talawah Mento Band and Jamaican Folk Revue will perform selections from their upcoming musical ‘Bedward,’ bringing this history to life. The film segment will further celebrate Jamaican legacy with a highlight on the legendary musician Jimmy Cliff.

The event boasts an impressive roster of multidisciplinary talent. Attendees can engage with figures like Sharon Gordon, a multifaceted author and media personality whose audiobook ‘Sheribaby’ is the first in Jamaican dialect to receive Grammy consideration. The festival will also feature Kacy Garvey, Richard Blackford, Simone Russell, storyteller Raul ‘Blaze’ Davis, attorney Kaysia Earley, and communications specialist Gail Abrahams, who will present her debut corporate guide for women, ‘Heels, Hustle, HEART.’

Admission to the Jamaica Brew Festival is free and open to the public, though prior registration is mandatory via jamaicabrew2026.eventbrite.com.