Jimmy Cliff, Music Superstar and Cultural Icon, Passes Away at Eighty-One Years of Age
The world mourns the passing of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican-born musician and actor whose distinctive vocal talent was instrumental in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. He passed away at the age of 81.
“With deep sorrow that I announce that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” posted his wife Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am grateful for his loved ones, close friends, fellow artists and coworkers who walked with him on his life’s path. To all his supporters globally, please know that your support was his strength during his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will honor your wishes.” Her post was also signed by their offspring, Lilty and Aken.
Jimmy 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 sound and positive temperament brought him a vast and longstanding fanbase.
In addition to 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 is one of just a handful of musicians, alongside Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…