Jamaican music has lost one of its most influential figures with the sudden death of veteran musician Stephen “Cat” Coore, a founding member of the internationally acclaimed reggae band Third World. He was 69.
Coore passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026. His death has been confirmed by family members, sending shockwaves through the local and international music fraternity.
Widely regarded as a musical visionary, Coore was a guitarist, cellist and the longtime musical director of Third World. He played a central role in shaping the band’s distinctive reggae-fusion sound, which blended reggae with soul, funk, pop and rock, helping the group achieve global success.
Born on April 6, 1956, Coore began his professional music journey in the early 1970s. After an early stint with Inner Circle, he went on to co-found Third World in 1973. Under his musical guidance, the band produced a string of internationally recognised hits, including Now That We’ve Found Love, 96 Degrees in the Shade and Try Jah Love, and became one of Jamaica’s longest-running and most successful musical acts.
Throughout his career, Coore earned widespread respect for his technical skill, musical depth and commitment to cultural authenticity. His contribution to Jamaica’s creative landscape was formally recognised when he was awarded the Order of Distinction for his service to music and the arts.
Beyond the stage, Coore was viewed as a cultural ambassador who helped introduce Jamaican music to audiences across the globe, influencing generations of musicians along the way.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa Coore; his children, Shiah, Kanna, Stephen and Ashley; his grandchildren; and extended family. Tributes continue to pour in as the music community reflects on the life and legacy of a man whose work helped define modern reggae on the world stage.
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