Jamaican Icon Jimmy Cliff, Music Superstar and Cultural Figure, Dies at Eighty-One Years of Age
The world mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican-born reggae singer and actor whose captivating 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 and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa on social media. “I am thankful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and colleagues who shared his journey. To all his fans globally, please know that your encouragement was his motivation during his entire professional life … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest in peace. I will honor your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their offspring, their son and daughter.
Cliff gained fame for hits such as You Can Get It If You Really Want, “I Can See Clearly Now” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His optimistic sound and positive temperament brought him a vast and loyal following.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972’s drama film “The Harder They Come”, a performance that was highly acclaimed and is considered a landmark of Jamaican cinema.
He was among the select few of musicians, alongside the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.
More to follow…
