Jimmy Cliff, Reggae Superstar and Cultural Icon, Dies at Eighty-One Years Old
The world mourns the passing of Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican musician and performer whose distinctive vocal talent played a key role in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. The artist passed away at the age of eighty-one.
“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” posted his wife Latifa on social media. “I am thankful for his family, close friends, fellow artists and coworkers who shared his journey. To all his fans globally, please know that your support was his motivation during his entire professional life … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.” The message was co-signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.
Jimmy 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 optimistic musical style and positive spirit earned him a large and longstanding following.
In addition to his musical achievements, Cliff starred in the 1972’s crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a performance that was highly acclaimed and is viewed as a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema.
Jimmy Cliff was one of just a handful of artists, including Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.
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