The Legendary Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Legend and Cultural Figure, Dies at 81 Years Old

Global audiences mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican-born reggae singer and performer whose distinctive voice was instrumental in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. He passed away at the age of eighty-one.

“With deep sorrow that I share that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure episode followed by pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa on social media. “I am thankful for his loved ones, close friends, fellow artists and coworkers who shared his journey. To all his supporters around the world, please know that your support was his motivation throughout 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.

Jimmy Cliff was beloved for hit songs including “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, “I Can See Clearly Now” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His optimistic sound and positive spirit brought him a large and longstanding fanbase.

Beyond his music accomplishments, Cliff starred in the 1972’s crime drama The Harder They Come, a role that received critical praise and is viewed as a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema.

He was one of just a handful of musicians, including Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.

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