Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Music Superstar and Cultural Icon, Dies at Eighty-One Years of Age
The world grieves the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican reggae singer and performer whose captivating vocal talent played a key role in popularizing the reggae genre across the globe. The artist passed away at the age of eighty-one.
“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on Instagram. “I am thankful for his loved ones, friends, fellow artists and colleagues who shared his journey. To all his supporters globally, please know that your encouragement was his motivation throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” The message was also signed by their offspring, their son and daughter.
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 upbeat musical style and uplifting spirit brought him a large and longstanding fanbase.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972 crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a role that was highly acclaimed and is considered a landmark of Jamaican cinema.
He was one of just a handful of musicians, including the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…
