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The world mourns the loss of the iconic Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican-born musician and actor whose captivating vocal talent played a key role in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. He passed away at the age of eighty-one.

“With deep sorrow that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure followed by pneumonia,” posted his wife Latifa Chambers on social media. “I am thankful for his loved ones, close friends, peers in the arts and coworkers who shared his journey. To all his fans around the world, please know that your encouragement was his strength during his whole career … Jimmy, my darling, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” Her post was co-signed by their children, their son and daughter.

Cliff gained fame for hits including “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, I Can See Clearly Now and Wonderful World, Beautiful People. His optimistic musical style and positive spirit brought him a vast and loyal fanbase.

Beyond his musical achievements, Cliff starred in the 1972’s crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a performance that received critical praise and is considered a cornerstone of film in Jamaica.

He was one of just a handful of artists, including Bob Marley and other greats, to be awarded the esteemed Order of Merit from Jamaica.

More to follow…