Jimmy Cliff, one of the most prominent and beloved proponents of reggae music, has died at the age of 81.
A star since the 1960s, he helped to bring the sound of Jamaica to a global audience through hits such as 'Wonderful World', 'Beautiful People' and 'You Can Get It If You Really Want.'
His lead role as a gun-toting rebel in the 1972 crime drama 'The Harder They Come' is a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema, attributed as the movie that brought reggae to America.
Cliff's wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his death via a statement on Instagram. It's with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia, she wrote.
She expressed gratitude for Cliff’s family, friends, and fans around the world, stating, To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.
Born James Chambers in 1944 in St. James, Jamaica, Cliff grew up in poverty as the eighth of nine children. He began singing in his local church at the age of six and later moved to Kingston at 14, adopting the surname Cliff to reflect his aspirations.
He recorded several singles before topping the Jamaican charts with 'Hurricane Hattie.' His international success was largely due to 'The Harder They Come', which opened doors for Jamaican music globally. Its soundtrack included many of his notable songs, such as the gospel hymn 'Many Rivers To Cross.'
Jimmy Cliff also enjoyed acclaim in his later years, with a Grammy Award win and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. He continued to inspire new generations of fans through his performances and music.
His contributions to Jamaican culture were recognized in various awards, but he emphasized the importance of his connection with fans as his greatest achievement.
