Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Superstar and Cultural Icon, Dies at Eighty-One Years of Age
Global audiences grieves the passing of Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican-born musician and actor whose distinctive vocal talent was instrumental in popularizing the reggae genre worldwide. The artist has died at the age of 81.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on Instagram. “I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who walked with him on his life’s path. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength during his whole career … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest in peace. I will honor your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their offspring, their son and daughter.
Jimmy Cliff gained fame 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 spirit earned him a vast and longstanding fanbase.
In addition to his music accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972’s crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a performance that received critical praise and is viewed as a landmark of film in Jamaica.
He was one of just a handful of musicians, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the prestigious Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
