KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, has hailed the late Stephen “Cat” Coore as a unique talent who could truly be described as “The Reggae Ambassador”.

In a statement on Monday, shortly after the announcement of his passing, Grange praised Coore as a distinguished musician and pioneering co-founder of the legendary Third World Band.

READ: Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, Jamaican music icon and Third World co-founder, dies at 69

“His passing is a tremendous loss.  I express my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. I know his wife Lisa, his children Shiah, Kanna, Stephen and Ashley, and his grandchildren must be devastated,” Grange said.

The minister noted that the Government and people of Jamaica are grateful to the family for allowing Coore the time to share his gift of musical excellence.

“I also extend a special word of consolation to the musical colleagues who worked closely with Cat. With Third World, he delivered hit songs including Reggae Ambassador, Now That We Found Love, 96 Degrees in the Shade, and Try Jah Love,” she reflected.

Grange also highlighted that before he co-founded Third World, Coore was an integral part of the successful Reggae group, Inner Circle, adding that it was no surprise that he was the recipient of several awards, including the Order of Distinction.

“We will miss ‘Cat’ Coore’s presence, but there is no doubt that his legacy will live on and continue to inspire current and future generations of musicians. Rest well, reggae ambassador,” she said.