The global music community has been thrown into mourning following the unexpected Jimmy Cliff death, confirmed on Monday at the age of 81.
The reggae icon passed away after suffering a seizure that was followed by pneumonia, according to a family statement shared on social media.
His departure has shocked fans worldwide who viewed him as one of Jamaica’s most enduring cultural voices.
His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his passing in an emotional message posted on his official Instagram page.
“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia,” she said.
She added, “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.”
The couple’s children, Lilty and Aken, also signed the message, which quickly generated thousands of reactions across global music communities.
Cliff was best known for timeless songs such as “Many Rivers to Cross” and “The Harder They Come.” Moreover, the film The Harder They Come, released in 1972, helped take Jamaican reggae to international audiences.
The soundtrack became a global classic and remains one of the most influential reggae albums ever made.
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to the star, describing his impact as historic.
“His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today,” Holness said in a statement.
Born in 1944, Cliff began his music journey early. He earned his first local hit at age 14 with “Hurricane Hattie.”
He went on to earn two Grammy Awards and seven nominations.
Furthermore, he became one of only two Jamaicans inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, joining Bob Marley.
Wyclef Jean delivered his introductory speech during the induction ceremony in 2010.
Music historian Rob Bowman once wrote that Cliff would have deserved Hall of Fame honours even if The Harder They Come had been his only accomplishment.
However, his influence stretched much further. He played a key role in Jamaica’s music industry by discovering new talent while working as an A&R representative for Beverley’s Records.
The label helped bring ska, rocksteady and reggae to the world, supporting stars like Desmond Dekker and a young Bob Marley.
