Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend and Cultural Icon, Dies at Eighty-One Years Old
Global audiences grieves the passing of Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican-born reggae singer and performer whose captivating voice was instrumental in popularizing the reggae genre worldwide. He passed away at the age of eighty-one.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” posted his wife Latifa on social media. “I am thankful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and colleagues who shared his life’s path. To all his fans globally, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will honor your wishes.” The message was also signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
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 sound and uplifting spirit brought him a vast and loyal following.
In addition to his music accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972’s drama film The Harder They Come, a role that received critical praise and is viewed as a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema.
Jimmy Cliff is among the select few of musicians, including Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…
