Jimmy Cliff, Jamaican Reggae Legend and Cultural Icon, Dies at 81
The Jamaican reggae legend, known for hits like Wonderful World and You Can Get It If You Really Want, also starred in the iconic film The Harder They Come, bringing reggae to a global audience
- Jimmy Cliff, legendary Jamaican reggae singer and cultural icon, dies at 81
- Known for hits like Wonderful World and You Can Get It If You Really Want, he brought reggae to a global audience
- Starred in the iconic 1972 film The Harder They Come, a milestone for Jamaican cinema and music worldwide
Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, celebrated as one of Jamaica’s most influential musicians and cultural icons, has passed away at the age of 81.
Rising to prominence in the 1960s, Cliff played a pivotal role in introducing Jamaican reggae to the global stage with timeless hits such as Wonderful World, Beautiful People, and You Can Get It If You Really Want.
He also made history on the silver screen, starring as a rebellious gunman in the 1972 crime drama The Harder They Come, a film widely credited with bringing reggae music to audiences in the United States and cementing his status as a pioneer of Jamaican cinema.
Cliff’s wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his passing on Instagram, revealing that he had suffered a seizure followed by pneumonia.
She wrote: “It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists, and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his career. Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.”
The message was also signed by their children, Lilty and Aken, paying tribute to the legendary artist who left an indelible mark on music and culture worldwide.
