Kingston, 19 January 20206 - The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has issued the following statement on the passing of the Reggae musician Cat Coore.

Minister's Statement

"Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore was a unique talent who could truly be described as 'The Reggae Ambassador'.

He was a distinguished musician and pioneering co-founder of the legendary Third World band.

His passing is a tremendous loss.

I express my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. I know his wife Lisa, his children Shiah, Kanna, Stephen and Ashley, and his grandchildren must be devastated. The Government and people of Jamaica are grateful to them for allowing ‘Cat’ Coore the time to share with us his gift of musical excellence.

I also extend a special word of consolation to the musical colleagues who worked closely with Cat.

With Third World, he delivered hit songs including 'Reggae Ambassador' ‘Now That We Found Love’, ‘96 Degrees in the Shade’, and ‘Try Jah Love’.

It should also not be forgotten that before he co-founded Third World, ‘Cat’ Coore was an integral part of the successful Reggae group, Inner Circle.

It is no surprise that he was the recipient of a number of awards including the Order of Distinction.

We will miss ‘Cat’ Coore’s presence, but there is no doubt that his legacy will live on and continue to inspire current and future generations of musicians. 

Rest well, Reggae Ambassador."

END