Stephen “Cat” Coore, co-founder of legendary reggae band Third World and one of Jamaica’s most respected musicians, has died.
The iconic guitarist passed away suddenly on Sunday evening, according to a statement from his publicist. He was 69.
Coore was one of the early members of Inner Circle before leaving to start Third World with keyboardist Ibo Cooper.
Third World’s pioneering fusion of reggae, soul, funk, pop, and rock helped shape the reggae-fusion sound and propel Jamaican music onto the global stage.
The band achieved international acclaim with enduring classics such as Now That We’ve Found Love, 96 Degrees in the Shade, and Try Jah Love, becoming one of Jamaica’s longest-running and most successful bands.
Coore, who is celebrated for his exceptional musicianship, compositional brilliance, and deep musical knowledge, was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Government of Jamaica in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Jamaican culture and the creative arts.
He leaves behind his wife Lisa, his children, Shiah, Kanna, Stephen, and Ashley, his grandchildren, as well as extended family, bandmates, colleagues, and countless fans across the globe. (Jamaica Observer)
