THE family of Third World band co-founder Stephen “Cat” Coore is setting the record straight following social media reports about the veteran artiste’s health.

“‘Cat’ is alert, stable and receiving attentive care by the dedicated medical team at the University Hospital [of the West Indies] (UHWI),” read a release sent to the Jamaica Observer on Tuesday.

“Touring plans are continuing to be scheduled as Third World gears up for its Golden 50th Anniversary in August 2023,” it continued.

According to the release, Coore was admitted to the UHWI on November 29 to “repair an idiopathic tear in his lower esophagus”. The surgery was successful and the recovery was expected to last at least 10 days.

On December 12, 2022, the veteran entertainer seemed to develop “cold-like respiratory symptoms” and was transferred to the intensive care unit to be “treated for a compromised lung condition that resulted from seepage of the surgical area into his chest cavity”. He is, however, doing much better.

“We want to thank all the well-wishers here in Jamaica, throughout the diaspora and abroad. The concern and compassion you have shown is overwhelming and so gratefully received,” said the release.

Coore, 65, was one of the early members of Inner Circle before leaving to start Third World with keyboardist Ibo Cooper.

The band toured the United Kingdom with Bob Marley and The Wailers in 1975. One year later, their self-titled album was released by Island Records.

96 Degrees In The Shade, Try Jah Love, Now That We Found Love and Sense Of Purpose are some of the band’s best known songs.

Coore and bass guitarist Richie Daley are the survivors from Third World’s classic line-up from the 1970s and 1980s.

Their 2019 album, More Work To Be Done, was nominated for a 2020 Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category.

— Brian Bonitto