Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Superstar and Cultural Figure, Dies at 81 Years of Age
The world grieves the passing of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican-born musician and actor whose captivating voice played a key role in spreading reggae music worldwide. He has died at the age of eighty-one.
“With deep sorrow that I share that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure episode and subsequent pneumonia,” posted his spouse Latifa Chambers on Instagram. “I am thankful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and coworkers who walked with him on his life’s path. To all his fans globally, please know that your encouragement was his motivation throughout his entire professional life … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their offspring, their son and daughter.
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 musical style and uplifting spirit 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 role that received critical praise and is viewed as a landmark of film in Jamaica.
He was among the select few of musicians, including Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…