Jimmy Cliff, the legendary Jamaican singer and a pivotal figure in bringing reggae music to the world, has died at the age of 81.
His death was confirmed by his wife, Latifa Chambers, in an Instagram post on Monday.
According to the announcement, the iconic musician passed away after suffering a seizure linked to a battle with pneumonia, an infection that causes inflammation in the lungs.
She expressed gratitude to the veteran’s friends, fans, and medical team, saying their support had been a source of strength throughout his career and a comfort to her and their children during this “difficult process”.
“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.
“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.
“He really appreciated every fan for their love. I also want to thank Dr. Couceyro and the entire medical staff, as they have been extremely supportive and helpful during this difficult process.
“Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes. I hope you all can respect our privacy during these hard times. Further information will be provided later. See you, and we see you, Legend. Latifa, Lilty and Aken.”
Born James Chambers, Jimmy Cliff was a rocksteady, reggae and soul musician, as well as a multi-instrumentalist, singer and actor.
He began writing songs while in primary school, inspired by a neighbour’s sound system. At 14, his father took him to Kingston, where he adopted the stage name Jimmy Cliff.
His breakthrough came at 17 with the hit single Hurricane Hattie. He introduced reggae to a global audience with classics such as Many Rivers to Cross, You Can Get It If You Really Want, The Harder They Come, Reggae Night, and Hakuna Matata.
Cliff also starred in films, most notably The Harder They Come, which played a crucial role in popularising reggae worldwide, and Club Paradise.
Over the years, he received widespread acclaim for his talent and contributions to music.
In 2010, he was among five performers inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
At the time of his death, he was the only living reggae musician to hold the Order of Merit, Jamaica’s highest honour for achievements in the arts and sciences.
Jimmy Cliff is survived by Latifa, their daughter Lilty, and son Aken.
