Jimmy Cliff, Music Superstar and Cultural Figure, Passes Away at 81 Years Old
Global audiences grieves the passing of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican musician and actor whose distinctive voice was instrumental in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. He passed away at the age of 81.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on Instagram. “I am grateful for his loved ones, 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 support was his strength throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” The message was co-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 upbeat sound and positive temperament earned him a large and loyal following.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972 crime drama The Harder They Come, a role that was highly acclaimed and is considered a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff was one of just a handful of musicians, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the prestigious Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
