Jamaican music has misplaced certainly one of its most influential figures with the sudden loss of life of veteran musician Stephen “Cat” Coore, a founding member of the internationally acclaimed reggae band Third World. He was 69.
Coore handed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026. His loss of life has been confirmed by relations, sending shockwaves by means of the native and worldwide music fraternity.
Extensively considered a musical visionary, Coore was a guitarist, cellist and the longtime musical director of Third World. He performed a central function in shaping the band’s distinctive reggae-fusion sound, which blended reggae with soul, funk, pop and rock, serving to the group obtain world success.
Born on April 6, 1956, Coore started his skilled music journey within the early Seventies. After an early stint with Inside Circle, he went on to co-found Third World in 1973. Underneath his musical steering, the band produced a string of internationally recognised hits, together with Now That We’ve Discovered Love, 96 Levels within the Shade and Attempt Jah Love, and have become certainly one of Jamaica’s longest-running and most profitable musical acts.
All through his profession, Coore earned widespread respect for his technical talent, musical depth and dedication to cultural authenticity. His contribution to Jamaica’s artistic panorama was formally recognised when he was awarded the Order of Distinction for his service to music and the humanities.
Past the stage, Coore was considered as a cultural ambassador who helped introduce Jamaican music to audiences throughout the globe, influencing generations of musicians alongside the best way.
He’s survived by his spouse, Lisa Coore; his kids, Shiah, Kanna, Stephen and Ashley; his grandchildren; and prolonged household. Tributes proceed to pour in because the music group displays on the life and legacy of a person whose work helped outline trendy reggae on the world stage.
