Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend and Cultural Figure, Dies at 81 Years Old
Global audiences mourns the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican musician and performer whose distinctive vocal talent was instrumental in spreading reggae music across the globe. He has died 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 and subsequent pneumonia,” posted his wife Latifa Chambers on Instagram. “I am thankful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and colleagues who walked with him on his journey. To all his supporters around the world, please know that your encouragement was his motivation during his whole career … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.” Her post was also signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
Jimmy Cliff was beloved for hits including “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 vast and longstanding fanbase.
In addition to his music achievements, 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.
He is one of just a handful of musicians, including the legendary Bob Marley and other greats, to be honored with the prestigious Jamaican Order of Merit.
Additional details will be provided…
