RIP reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff. He was 81.
While Bob Marley is at the top of the podium when it comes to exporting Jamaican reggae to the world, Jimmy Cliff is right behind him. The singer and actor has died at the age of 81.
His wife, Latifa Chambers posted this on Instagram today (November 24):
“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. 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 whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.”
Cliff had a ton of hits, including “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” “I Can See Clearly Now,” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People.” He’s also remembered for his starring role in the movie, The Harder They Come, one of the most important films in the history of Jamaica. Alongside Bob Marley, he was awarded the Jamaican Order of Merit.
Bruce Springsteen was a fan, covering Cliff’s song “Trapped.” He also collaborated with Sting, Rancid, and The Rolling Stones. He’s in The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has a couple of Grammy Awards to his name.
The entirety of Jamaica and the reggae world is in mourning today. Here’s the song that helped take reggae global. You can read more about him here.
