Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Superstar and Cultural Figure, Passes Away at Eighty-One Years Old
The world mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican-born reggae singer and actor whose distinctive vocal talent was instrumental in popularizing reggae music across the globe. He has died at the age of eighty-one.
“With deep sorrow that I announce that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure followed by pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who walked with him on his journey. To all his supporters globally, please know that your support was his motivation throughout his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will honor your wishes.” The message was co-signed by their children, their son and daughter.
Jimmy Cliff was beloved for hits such as You Can Get It If You Really Want, “I Can See Clearly Now” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His upbeat musical style and positive temperament earned him a vast and longstanding following.
In addition to his music accomplishments, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972 drama film The Harder They Come, a role that was highly acclaimed and is viewed as a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.
He was one of just a handful of artists, alongside Bob Marley and other greats, to be awarded the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…