Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend and Cultural Figure, Passes Away at Eighty-One Years Old
Global audiences grieves the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican reggae singer and actor whose captivating vocal talent played a key role in spreading reggae music worldwide. He passed away at the age of 81.
“With deep sorrow that I share that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and colleagues who walked with him on his journey. To all his supporters globally, please know that your encouragement was his motivation during his entire professional life … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their offspring, their son and daughter.
Jimmy Cliff was beloved for hits such as “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, “I Can See Clearly Now” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His optimistic sound and uplifting temperament brought him a vast and longstanding fanbase.
In addition to his musical achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972 crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a performance that received critical praise and is viewed as a landmark of film in Jamaica.
He is one of just a handful of artists, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and other greats, to be honored with the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
