Reggae icon Stephen “Cat” Coore has died

Stephen “Cat” Coore, co founder of the legendary reggae band Third World and one of Jamaica’s most respected musicians, has died. He was 69.

According to a statement from his publicist, the iconic guitarist and cellist passed away suddenly on Sunday evening.

Widely regarded as one of Jamaica’s most influential musicians, Cat Coore was celebrated for his mastery of both guitar and cello and for seamlessly blending diverse musical influences into reggae, helping to shape Third World’s distinctive global sound.

Tributes have been flooding social media from across the music industry. Sean Paul, Damian Marley, Tanya Stephens, Stone Love, Jesse Royal, Baby Cham and countless fans have honored the late musician’s legacy.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, described Cat Coore as a unique talent who could truly be called “The Reggae Ambassador.” She said his passing represents a tremendous loss to Jamaica and the global music community.

The official Instagram account of Third World shared an emotional tribute reading, “You know I LOVE you, right Stephen Cat Coore, OD. April 6, 1956 – January 18, 2026.”

Sean Paul, in a heartfelt message, said in part, “R.I.P to a real legend, a real musician, a real disciplined and mastered talent and a real mentor for me and many others in our industry. You gave me the first chance in studio uncle. Never will I forget.”

Mortimer remembered Cat Coore as a constant source of encouragement, writing that they shared a final hug during his last European show, adding, “Thank you for being so kind to me, uncle. Love always.”

Jesse Royal wrote, “Rest in Power. One of the greatest ever to do it. So much gratitude, unks.”

With Third World, Cat Coore delivered timeless hits including Reggae Ambassador, Now That We Found Love, 96 Degrees in the Shade and Try Jah Love.

Beyond Third World, he was also an integral part of the success of reggae group Inner Circle.

His achievements include nine Grammy nominations, the United Nations Medal of Peace and numerous local and international awards. In 2005, he was awarded Jamaica’s Order of Distinction.

He also received Keys to the Cities of Key West, Brooklyn, Atlantic City, Hollywood Florida and Hartford, along with honors from the Kennedy Center, JaRIA, Reggae Sumfest, IRAWMA and more.

Stephen “Cat” Coore also served as Ambassador for the Alligator Head Foundation in Port Antonio and as Goodwill Ambassador for the Issa Trust Foundation in Jamaica.

In February 2023, Stephen “Cat” Coore shared his journey on the road to success with Kshema Francis on Easy Skankin’.