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-born reggae singer and performer whose captivating vocal talent played a key role in spreading reggae music worldwide. He passed away at the age of eighty-one.
“With deep sorrow that I announce that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure episode and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on Instagram. “I am thankful for his family, close friends, fellow artists and colleagues who shared his journey. To all his fans around the world, please know that your encouragement was his motivation throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” The message was also signed by their offspring, their son and daughter.
Jimmy Cliff gained fame 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 sound and uplifting spirit brought him a large and loyal fanbase.
Beyond his music achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972’s crime drama The Harder They Come, a performance that was highly acclaimed and is considered a landmark of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff is one of just a handful of musicians, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…
