Legendary Jamaican musician Stephen “Cat” Coore, co-founder and longtime musical director of reggae fusion pioneers Third World, has died suddenly at the age of 69, his family confirmed on Monday. The news has sent waves of grief through the global music community and among fans who long celebrated his contributions to reggae and Caribbean culture.
Born on April 6, 1956, Coore was one of Jamaica’s most respected and influential musicians, known for his mastery of both guitar and cello and for bringing an extraordinary range of musical influences into reggae. Over more than five decades he helped craft Third World’s genre-blending sound — mixing reggae with soul, funk, pop, rock, R&B, jazz, and even classical elements — helping Jamaican music cross cultural and geographic borders.
Coore’s musical journey began early: by age 13 he was already a professional musician and later joined the popular Jamaican band Inner Circle before co-founding Third World in 1973 with keyboardist Michael “Ibo” Cooper and friends Colin Leslie, Milton “Prilly” Hamilton and Richard Daley. Their debut album was released by Island Recordsin 1976, and they went on to international success with enduring classics such as Now That We’ve Found Love, 96 Degrees in the Shade and Try Jah Love.
Across a career spanning half a century, Third World became one of Jamaica’s longest-running and most successful bands, earning nine Grammy nominations and a reputation as one of reggae’s most influential crossover acts.
Coore’s individual honors reflect his broad cultural impact. In 2005 he was awarded Jamaica’s Order of Distinction (OD) for his outstanding contribution to music and culture, and he received international accolades including the Caribbean-American Heritage Luminary Award in Washington, D.C. He also held honorary keys to several U.S. cities and lifetime achievement awards from major Caribbean music festivals and industry groups.
Offstage, Coore worked as a musical ambassador and philanthropist. He served as a goodwill ambassador for organisations including the Issa Trust Foundation — helping raise funds for health centres in Jamaica — and supported environmental causes through partnerships with local foundations.
Music industry figures, fellow artists and fans have shared condolences worldwide, praising Coore’s musicianship, mentorship and the way his work helped bring Jamaican culture to the world stage.
Third World was scheduled to perform in Hollywood, Florida, next month alongside Burning Spear and other reggae acts.
Coore is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family and bandmates. Plans for tributes and memorials are expected to be announced by Third World and his family.
