Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend and Cultural Icon, Dies at 81 Years Old
The world mourns the passing of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican-born musician and actor whose distinctive vocal talent played a key role in popularizing the reggae genre worldwide. He has died at the age of eighty-one.
“With deep sorrow that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure episode followed by pneumonia,” posted his spouse Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am grateful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and colleagues who walked with him on his life’s path. To all his fans globally, please know that your support was his strength during his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” The message was co-signed by their offspring, Lilty and Aken.
Jimmy Cliff gained fame for hits including “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.
Beyond his music accomplishments, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972 crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a performance that was highly acclaimed and is considered a landmark of Jamaican cinema.
Jimmy Cliff is one of just a handful of musicians, alongside Bob Marley and other greats, to be honored with the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.
Additional details will be provided…