The Legendary Jimmy Cliff, Music Legend and Cultural Icon, Dies at Eighty-One Years Old
The world grieves the passing of Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican-born reggae singer and performer whose distinctive voice played a key role in popularizing the reggae genre across the globe. The artist has died at the age of eighty-one.
“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure episode followed by pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am grateful for his family, friends, fellow artists and colleagues who shared his journey. To all his supporters around the world, please know that your support was his motivation throughout his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will honor your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
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 musical style and uplifting temperament brought him a large and loyal fanbase.
Beyond his music achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972 drama film The Harder They Come, a performance that received critical praise and is considered a landmark of Jamaican cinema.
He is one of just a handful of musicians, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…