Jimmy Cliff, Music Superstar and Cultural Icon, Passes Away at Eighty-One Years of Age
Global audiences mourns the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican musician and performer whose captivating voice was instrumental in spreading reggae music across the globe. The artist has died at the age of 81.
“With deep sorrow that I announce that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure episode and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am grateful for his loved ones, friends, peers in the arts and coworkers who walked with him on his journey. To all his supporters around the world, please know that your encouragement was his strength throughout his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will honor your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their offspring, their son and daughter.
Cliff was beloved for hit songs such as “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, I Can See Clearly Now and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His upbeat sound and positive spirit earned him a vast and loyal fanbase.
Beyond his music achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972’s drama film “The Harder They Come”, a role that was highly acclaimed and is considered a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff is among the select few of artists, including Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.
More to follow…
