Reggae legend and film star Jimmy Cliff dies

One of the greatest Jamaican musicians ever is no longer with us. The indomitable Jimmy Cliff, known for his timeless reggae classics and starring in arguably the greatest Jamaican film ever produced, has died. He was 81 years old.

Cliff’s wife, Latifa Chambers, confirmed the tragic news on social media early Monday morning. Cliff, whose real name was James Chambers, died following pneumonia, which arose as a complication following a seizure.

Jimmy Cliff Is One of Jamaica’s Most Respected Auteurs

Born in St. James and residing in Kingston at the time of his death, Cliff ranks among reggae music’s most important figures. After emerging in the ska genre, Cliff popularized reggae music in the early 1970s, becoming one of its first superstars. His list of hits is enviable, from “Treat the Youths Right” to “Many Rivers to Cross” and “I Can See Clearly Now.” He also became a big-screen star thanks to his main role in The Harder They Come, which also produced the beloved title track.

Cliff secured many accolades throughout his six decades in the music industry. These include two Best Reggae Album awards. He won the second-ever reggae Grammy for “Cliff Hanger” in 1986 and notched the other in 2013 for “Rebirth.” Furthermore, Cliff was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He also received the Order of Merit for his long list of musical and cultural contributions.