Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend and Cultural Figure, Passes Away at Eighty-One Years of Age
The world mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican reggae singer and performer whose distinctive vocal talent was instrumental in popularizing the reggae genre worldwide. He passed away at the age of eighty-one.
“With deep sorrow that I announce that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa on social media. “I am grateful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and coworkers who walked with him on his journey. To all his fans globally, please know that your support was his strength during his whole career … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest peacefully. I will honor your wishes.” The message was co-signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
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 upbeat sound and positive spirit brought him a large and loyal following.
Beyond his music accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972’s crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a role that was highly acclaimed and is viewed as a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff was one of just a handful of musicians, alongside Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…
