Veteran reggae singer and actor Jimmy Cliff has passed away at the age of 81. His wife confirmed his death, stating he had been battling pneumonia for an extended period.
Cliff’s powerful voice played a pivotal role in bringing reggae music to a global audience. The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of a legend.
His wife made the announcement on his official Instagram account on Monday. She revealed the cause of death was long-term pneumonia.
In her message, she requested fans worldwide to understand that their support was his strength throughout his career. She extended heartfelt gratitude for the love shown to her late husband.
Cliff was also recognized for his acting role in the acclaimed film ‘The Harder They Come’. In the early 1970s, he portrayed Ivanhoe “Ivan” Martin, a reggae musician who delves into the criminal underworld after his career stalls.
A native of Jamaica, Cliff developed a deep passion for music from a young age. He joined Kingston’s burgeoning music scene in his adolescence. He spearheaded a movement in the 1960s that included future stars such as Bob Marley, Toots Hibbert, and Peter Tosh.
His well-known songs include “Many Rivers to Cross,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” and “Vietnam.” These tracks captivated audiences globally.