Jimmy Cliff, Music Superstar and Cultural Figure, Passes Away at Eighty-One Years of Age
The world mourns the passing of Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican reggae singer and actor whose captivating voice was instrumental in spreading reggae music worldwide. The artist has died at the age of 81.
“It’s with profound sadness that I share 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, peers in the arts and coworkers who walked with him on his journey. To all his supporters around the world, please know that your encouragement was his motivation during his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will honor your wishes.” The message was co-signed by their offspring, Lilty and Aken.
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 sound and positive temperament earned him a vast and longstanding following.
In addition to his musical achievements, Cliff starred in the 1972 crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a role that received critical praise and is viewed as a landmark of Jamaican cinema.
He was one of just a handful of artists, alongside Bob Marley and other greats, to be honored with the prestigious Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
