From Reggae Roots to Global Recognition: The Story Of Music Icon, ‘Stephen 'Cat' Coore’

Stephen "Cat" Coore, is a highly acclaimed musician and one of Jamaica's most influential artists. born in Kingston on April 6, 1950, His musical journey began with a strong influence from his parents, the Honorable David Hilton Coore and Rita Angela Innis Coore.

Cat's father, a Jamaican scholar and Deputy Prime Minister of Jamaica from 1972 to 1976, served the government under three ministries. His mother, Rita, hailing from Trinidad, studied music and broadcasting at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, and later at the Royal College London. She was even taught by Lloyd Webber, whose son Andrew Lloyd Webber became one of the most famous Broadway writers of all time.

From a young age, Cat's mother noticed the impact of music on him when she played it in the house. At the age of four, she began teaching him a few basics on the piano. Although Cat didn't demonstrate much love for the instrument, he developed a fascination for string instruments when his mother played Pablo Casals records. Recognizing this, she decided to send him for cello lessons.

This turned out to be a pivotal move as Cat immediately embraced the cello and developed a deep love for string instruments. He studied under the guidance of Noel Foster Davis, who played a significant role in shaping Cat's musical foundation. Cat's talent on the cello allowed him to perform on various stages, including playing "The Swan" for Princess Anne at Kings House and winning a silver medal in the Jamaica festival at the age of ten, surpassing older contestants.

At the age of twelve, Cat's musical interests shifted towards Ska, Pop, Rocksteady, and Reggae. He developed a passion for the guitar and requested one from his mother. She obliged, and this marked the beginning of a lifelong love affair with the instrument. Cat's progress on the guitar was rapid, and at the age of thirteen, he joined the Inner Circle as their lead guitarist. He remained with the band for four years, performing extensively throughout Jamaica, the Caribbean, and even North America. In 1971, Cat's guitar skills were showcased on the festival song "Cherry O Baby," which went on to win the Jamaica Festival Song Competition, earning him his first commercial recording credit and 10 Jamaican Dollars.

Yearning for a new musical adventure, Cat formed a group with his friend Colin Leslie, and later, his lifelong friend Ibo Cooper joined them. This marked the birth of Third World, a band that Cat has been a part of for an impressive 50 years. During his tenure with Third World, Cat has achieved great success, with chart-topping hits, nine Grammy nominations, and numerous prestigious awards, including the United Nation Medal of Peace and the National Honors with the Order of Distinction of Jamaica in 2005.

Cat's musical contributions and talents have been recognized globally, earning him various awards and accolades. He has been honored with the Key to the Cities of Key West, FL, Brooklyn, NY, Atlantic City, NJ, Hollywood, FL, and Hartford, CT. The Kennedy Center in Washington DC awarded him the National Black Arts Award, and he has also received Lifetime Achievement Awards from Jamaica Jazz and Blues and Reggae Sumfest, Island Records, and IRAWMA.

Beyond his musical endeavors, Cat serves as the Ambassador for the Alligator Head Foundation in Port Antonio, Jamaica, and is the Goodwill Ambassador for the Issa Trust Foundation in Jamaica. His passion for music and dedication to philanthropy have made him an influential figure not only in the music industry but also in the communities he supports.

Cat draws inspiration from a range of musical icons, including Pablo Casals, Jaquelin DePre, Bob Marley, and Carlos Santana. His unique blend of musical styles and his commitment to spreading positive messages through his music have made him a beloved figure in Jamaica and beyond.

Cat Coore in performance at the Issa Trust Foundation at ‘For The Children’ charity concert held in 2020. (Photo: Facebook @IssaTrustFoundation)

To learn more about Stephen "Cat" Coore and his remarkable musical journey, visit www.purejamaicamedia.com/people where you can explore his extensive discography, upcoming events, and exclusive interviews.