Jimmy Cliff, a pioneering force in reggae music and a celebrated “cultural giant” of Jamaica, has died at the age of 81. His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his passing on Facebook Monday, citing a seizure followed by pneumonia as the cause.
Born James Chambers on July 30, 1944, during a hurricane in St James Parish, Jamaica, Cliff rose to prominence alongside Bob Marley, helping to popularize reggae, ska, and rocksteady over a six-decade career. He transitioned from a family farm in his youth to Kingston, driven by a determination to succeed in the music industry. At 14, he achieved national recognition with his self-penned song, ”Hurricane Hattie.”
Cliff’s musical journey spanned over 30 albums and performances worldwide, including appearances in Paris, Brazil, and at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. A pivotal moment came in 1965 when Chris Blackwell of Island Records – the producer who would later launch Bob Marley and the Wailers – invited Cliff to collaborate in the UK.
Beyond music, Cliff left a lasting mark on cinema, starring in the 1972 film The Harder They Come, directed by perry Henzell. The film is credited with introducing reggae to a global audience and offering a stark, realistic portrayal of Jamaican life, challenging the island’s image as merely a tourist destination.
