Jimmy Cliff, the Jamaican icon who helped bring reggae music from the streets of the island to the world stage, has passed away at the age of 81.
His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his death on Monday, saying he suffered a seizure followed by pneumonia. “It is with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over,” she wrote on his official Instagram. She thanked fans and friends around the globe, noting that their support kept him going throughout his career.
Over more than four decades, Cliff blended reggae with elements of soul, ska, folk, rock, and protest music. He tackled subjects like poverty, corruption, politics, and war. His songs — including classics like “The Harder They Come” and “You Can Get It If You Really Want” — became anthems of resilience and freedom. Many saw him as reggae’s most influential figure after Bob Marley, who collaborated with Cliff early in his career.
His role in the 1972 film The Harder They Come launched him onto the global stage, telling a story shaped by his own experiences growing up in hardship. The film — and its soundtrack — helped introduce reggae to new audiences around the world.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the nation is taking time to honor “a true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world.” He said Cliff’s music “lifted people through hard times” and helped build global respect for Jamaican culture.
“Walk good, Jimmy Cliff,” Holness said. “Your legacy lives on in every corner of our island and in the hearts of the Jamaican people.”
The post Jimmy Cliff, Legendary Reggae Pioneer, Dies at 81 appeared first on Real News Now.
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