Reggae icon Jimmy Cliff dies at age 81 after suffering from stroke and pneumonia
Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, known for such classic songs as “I Can See Clearly Now,” has died at the age of 81 after suffering from a stroke and pneumonia, his family announced.
Reggae icon Jimmy Cliff, the Grammy-winning musician known for hits such as “I Can See Clearly Now” and “The Harder They Come,” has died. He was 81 years old.
His family issued a statement on his Instagram page on Monday, November 24, confirming his death “with deep sadness.”
“We are grateful to his family, friends, fellow artists, and colleagues who have shared his journey with him. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support has been his strength throughout his career. He truly appreciates the love of each and every one of his fans,” the family said in a statement.
cause of death of jimmy cliff
Cliff died of a seizure and pneumonia, his family said in a statement Monday. His family thanked “Dr. Queiro and the entire medical staff” for being “very cooperative and helpful during this difficult process.”
Reggae music legend Jimmy Cliff introduced the genre to the world with ‘The Harder They Come’
Cliff, real name James Chambers, is hailed as one of Jamaica’s cultural icons, along with Bob Marley. He is best known for the hits “Wonderful World, Beautiful People,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want It,” and “I Can See Clearly Now.”
He also worked as an actor, starring in the 1972 film The Harder They Come and contributing to its soundtrack and title song. The song and film were praised for expanding reggae’s global reach.
During a career spanning several decades, Cliff was recognized for his achievements in 2003 when he received one of Jamaica’s highest honors, the Order of Merit. He was hailed as the “first champion of reggae” and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.
He has won two Grammy Awards, including Best Reggae Album for “Rebirth.” In a 2012 interview with the Guardian, Cliff spoke about writing the project.
“I grew up in an environment where I could choose to go either way, negative or positive. So in a way I chose to go positive, and that stayed with me throughout my life,” he said. “No matter the situation, I always have to have a positive outlook, and that shows in my music.”
Cliff’s family said more details would be released at a later date.
“Jimmy, my love, may you rest in peace,” the statement continued on Instagram. “We ask that everyone respect our privacy during this difficult time.”
Taylor Eardley is a news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact tardrey@gannett.com.
