Jimmy Cliff, one of the most prominent and beloved proponents of reggae music, has died at the age of 81.
A star since the 1960s, he helped to bring the sound of Jamaica to a global audience through hits such as 'Wonderful World', 'Beautiful People', and 'You Can Get It If You Really Want'.
His lead role as a gun-toting rebel in the 1972 crime drama 'The Harder They Come' became a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema and was credited with introducing reggae to American audiences.
Cliff's wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his death via a statement on Instagram. 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.
Born James Chambers in 1944 in Jamaica, Cliff grew up in poverty and began singing in church at age six. He was inspired to write music by ska pioneer Derrick Morgan and initially recorded his first hits in the 1960s.
Cliff's 1969 single 'Wonderful World, Beautiful People' garnered him international acclaim, while the soundtrack for 'The Harder They Come' established him as a key figure in reggae music.
He continued to tour and perform until late in life, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. His music inspired countless fans worldwide, with his message of hope and resilience resonating deeply with listeners.
As we honor the legacy of Jimmy Cliff, his influence on music and culture will be remembered for generations to come.
