Cat Coore's Gift: Music, Laughter, and Grace

Anyone who listens to reggae music knows Third World and the indelible mark they've left on the genre. Cat Coore's talent inspired countless musicians, including me.

A few years ago, I was rehearsing for the Miami Beach Centennial event, sharing the bill with Third World, Andrea Bocelli, Barry Gibb, and other legends. Cat walked into my rehearsal room and stayed to listen to a few songs. After years of loving his band and his work, I finally got to tell him what his music meant to me.

Fast forward to 2024. Mr. Risolia invited me to perform at a Miami event with Inner Circle, Third World, Mykal Rose of Black Uhuru. I had a severe back injury, the pain was excruciating. I rehearsed lying flat on the ground. But there was no way I was turning down that show. Cat and Third World watched my entire set from the stage, I felt honored.

Backstage, the Third World band had taken over my green room by mistake, theirs was right next door. When I limped in, Cat saw me struggling and cracked a smile: "They send a wheelchair for me from time to time, I know how you feel." We both laughed hard. The pain didn't seem so heavy after that.

Beyond his immense talent, Cat Coore was warm, funny, and real, the kind of person who made you feel seen.

We hold deep gratitude for all you brought into our lives. May you rest in love, your mission here complete. R.I.P.