Jamaican reggae legend and originator Jimmy Cliff, renowned for bringing reggae to a global audience, has passed away at the age of 81.
His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced the news on Instagram, saying he passed away after suffering a seizure followed by pneumonia.
“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists, and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes. We see you, Legend.” she wrote in her post
Cliff’s six‑decade career included hits such as You Can Get It If You Really Want, Many Rivers to Cross, Vietnam, I Can See Clearly Now, Have You Heard The News, Time Will Tell, Bongo Man, Oh Jamaica, crossover, Jamming and many chat busters.
He starred in the 1972 film The Harder They Come, whose soundtrack, featuring the title track of the same name, played a major role in popularizing reggae worldwide.
Cliff was a two‑time Grammy winner and was awarded Jamaica’s Order of Merit in 2000, one of the country’s highest honors.
He was also the only other Jamaican to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010, after Bob Marley.
His impact extended beyond reggae. He recorded covers such as Johnny Nash’s I Can See Clearly Now and collaborated with artists such as The Rolling Stones, Sting and Paul Simon.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to Cliff, calling him:
“A true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world … Jimmy Cliff told our story with honesty and soul. His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today.”
Tributes continue to pour in from fans and colleagues around the world
