Jimmy Cliff, Music Legend and Cultural Figure, Dies at 81 Years Old
The world grieves the passing of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican musician and performer whose distinctive voice was instrumental in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. He passed away at the age of 81.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure episode and subsequent pneumonia,” posted his wife Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am grateful for his family, close friends, fellow artists and coworkers who walked with him on his journey. To all his supporters around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will honor your wishes.” Her post was also signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
Jimmy Cliff was beloved for hit songs including You Can Get It If You Really Want, “I Can See Clearly Now” and Wonderful World, Beautiful People. His upbeat musical style and uplifting temperament brought him a large and longstanding following.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972 crime drama The Harder They Come, a role that was highly acclaimed and is considered a landmark of Jamaican cinema.
He is among the select few of musicians, including the legendary Bob Marley and other greats, to be awarded the prestigious Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
