Stephen “Cat” Coore, Founding Member of Third World, Has Died

Legendary guitarist and musical director Stephen “Cat” Coore dies at 69. He helped shape Third World’s reggae-fusion sound and carried Jamaican music to global stages.

Stephen “Cat” Coore of Third World passes away at 69

Stephen “Cat” Coore, a founding member of the legendary reggae band Third World, has died at the age of 69. His family confirmed the news on the evening of Sunday, January 18, 2026.

“It is with profound sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore - husband, father, grandfather, and one of Jamaica’s most gifted, influential, and respected musicians—on the evening of Sunday, January 18, 2026,” the statement shared.

Born April 6, 1956, Stephen Cat Coore was a founding member, guitarist, and musical director of Third World. His visionary leadership helped define the band’s pioneering fusion of reggae, soul, funk, pop, and rock. Under his guidance, Third World achieved international acclaim with singles such as “Now That We’ve Found Love,” “96 Degrees in the Shade,” and “Try Jah Love,” cementing their status as one of Jamaica’s longest-running and most successful bands.

Celebrated for his exceptional musicianship, compositional brilliance, and deep musical knowledge, Coore was widely regarded as a cultural ambassador whose influence inspired generations of artists at home and abroad.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Jamaican culture and the creative arts, he was awarded the Order of Distinction (OD) by the Government of Jamaica for decades of service to music and for promoting Jamaica’s cultural legacy worldwide.

He is survived by 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.