Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Music Superstar and Cultural Icon, Passes Away at 81 Years of Age
The world mourns the passing of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican-born musician and actor whose distinctive vocal talent was instrumental in spreading reggae music worldwide. The artist has died at the age of eighty-one.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure followed by pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am thankful for his loved ones, close friends, peers in the arts and colleagues who walked with him on his life’s path. To all his fans globally, please know that your encouragement was his strength during 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.
Cliff gained fame for hits including “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, I Can See Clearly Now and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His optimistic musical style and positive spirit earned him a large and longstanding following.
Beyond his musical achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972’s drama film The Harder They Come, a performance that was highly acclaimed and is viewed as a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff was among the select few of musicians, including the legendary Bob Marley and other greats, to be honored with the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
