The Legendary Jimmy Cliff, Music Legend and Cultural Figure, Dies at 81 Years of Age
Global audiences grieves the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican reggae singer and performer whose captivating vocal talent was instrumental in spreading reggae music worldwide. He passed away at the age of 81.
“With deep sorrow that I share that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa on Instagram. “I am grateful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and colleagues who shared his life’s path. To all his fans around the world, please know that your encouragement was his motivation throughout his entire professional life … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest in peace. I will honor your wishes.” Her post was also signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
Cliff gained fame for hit songs including You Can Get It If You Really Want, “I Can See Clearly Now” and Wonderful World, Beautiful People. His upbeat musical style and uplifting temperament brought him a large and longstanding fanbase.
Beyond his music achievements, Cliff starred in the 1972’s crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a performance that received critical praise and is viewed as a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema.
Jimmy Cliff was one of just a handful of artists, including Bob Marley and other greats, to be honored with the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…
