The Legendary Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend and Cultural Icon, Passes Away at 81 Years of Age
The world grieves the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican-born musician and performer whose distinctive voice was instrumental in spreading the reggae genre worldwide. He passed away at the age of eighty-one.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure episode followed by pneumonia,” posted his spouse Latifa on Instagram. “I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who shared his journey. To all his fans around the world, please know that your encouragement was his motivation during his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” The message was also signed by their offspring, Lilty and Aken.
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 brought him a large and longstanding following.
In addition to his music accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972 crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a role that was highly acclaimed and is viewed as a landmark of film in Jamaica.
He was one of just a handful of artists, including the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
