Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Music Legend and Cultural Icon, Dies at Eighty-One Years of Age
Global audiences grieves the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican reggae singer and performer whose distinctive voice played a key role in spreading reggae music worldwide. The artist has died at the age of eighty-one.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure followed by pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa on Instagram. “I am grateful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and coworkers who shared his life’s path. To all his fans around the world, please know that your encouragement was his motivation during his entire professional life … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” The message was also signed by their offspring, Lilty and Aken.
Jimmy 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 optimistic musical style and positive temperament earned him a large and loyal fanbase.
Beyond his music achievements, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972’s drama film “The Harder They Come”, a performance that received critical praise and is considered a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.
Jimmy Cliff is one of just a handful of artists, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.
Additional details will be provided…
