Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Music Legend and Cultural Figure, Passes Away at 81 Years Old
Global audiences mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican-born reggae singer and performer whose captivating voice played a key role in popularizing reggae music worldwide. He has died at the age of 81.
“With deep sorrow that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure episode and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am thankful for his loved ones, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who walked with him on his journey. To all his fans around the world, please know that your encouragement was his motivation during his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
Cliff was beloved for hit songs such as “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 following.
In addition to his music achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972’s drama film The Harder They Come, a performance that received critical praise and is viewed as a landmark of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff was among the select few of musicians, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
