Reggae musician Jimmy Cliff dies aged 81

November 24, 2025 – Radio 854 Music News:

Jimmy Cliff, one of reggae’s most iconic voices and a global cultural ambassador, has passed away at the age of 81. His death was confirmed by his wife, Latifa Chambers, in a heartfelt message on his official social media channels.

Cause of Death

According to his family, Cliff died following a seizure and subsequent pneumonia.

A Life in Music and Film

• Born James Chambers in Jamaica (July 30, 1944), he moved to Kingston in his teens to pursue music.

• He recorded over 30 albums across his career and was known for blending ska, rocksteady, and reggae.

• Cliff starred in the seminal 1972 film The Harder They Come, playing Ivan Martin — a role that helped bring reggae and Jamaican culture to a global stage.

• Some of his most beloved songs include “Many Rivers to Cross”, “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”, and his cover of “I Can See Clearly Now”.

Legacy & Honors

• Cliff received multiple Grammy Awards over his career.

• He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

• In Jamaica, he was awarded the Order of Merit, one of the country’s highest honors.

• Politicians and fans around the world have been paying tribute — Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness called him “a true cultural giant.”

A Final Word from His Family

In her message, Latifa Chambers wrote:

“To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career … He really appreciated each and every fan for their love.”

She closed by asking for privacy during this difficult time.

Why Jimmy Cliff Mattered to Us at Radio 854

Jimmy Cliff was more than just a singer — he was a pioneer. Through his music and films, he helped introduce reggae to audiences around the world. His songs weren’t just catchy; they carried messages of resilience, justice, and hope. As one of the first global ambassadors of Jamaican music, his influence is deeply woven into the fabric of pop culture and music history.

His passing is a huge loss — but his legacy lives on. Rest in power, Jimmy.