Jimmy Cliff: Iconic Reggae Legend Passes Away at 81

Fri Dec 05 2025 11:27:39 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The world mourns the loss of legendary reggae artist Jimmy Cliff, who has died at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music that transcended borders.

Jimmy Cliff, renowned for capturing the essence of Jamaican reggae, passed away at 81 years old. Famous for hits like 'Wonderful World, Beautiful People,' his contributions to music and film, particularly in 'The Harder They Come,' helped bring reggae to a global audience. His wife announced his passing due to a seizure followed by pneumonia, and he is remembered for inspiring generations through his songs and performances.

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 is a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema, and was attributed as the movie that brought reggae to America.

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.

I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. 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.

Born James Chambers in 1944, Cliff grew up as the eighth of nine children in abject poverty in St. James, Jamaica. He began singing in church at age six and was inspired to write songs after hearing ska music.

Cliff became an international star with The Harder They Come, contributing four songs to its Grammy-winning soundtrack, including Many Rivers To Cross, which reflected his struggles in his early career. Over his lifetime, he collaborated with major acts, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received numerous accolades for his music, including the prestigious Order of Merit from Jamaica.

Even in his later years, Cliff continued to tour and inspire new generations of fans, proving that the essence of his music lay in its message of hope and resilience.