Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Music Legend and Cultural Figure, Dies at 81 Years of Age
Global audiences grieves the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican reggae singer and performer whose distinctive vocal talent was instrumental in popularizing reggae music worldwide. He passed away at the age of 81.
“With deep sorrow that I share that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure episode followed by pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa on social media. “I am thankful for his loved ones, close friends, fellow artists and coworkers who shared his journey. To all his supporters around the world, please know that your support was his motivation throughout his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.” Her post was also signed by their children, their son and daughter.
Jimmy Cliff was beloved for hits including You Can Get It If You Really Want, “I Can See Clearly Now” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His upbeat musical style and positive spirit earned him a vast and longstanding fanbase.
Beyond his music achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972 crime drama The Harder They Come, a performance that received critical praise and is considered a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff is one of just a handful of artists, including Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…
