Reggae Star and Actor Jimmy Cliff Dies at 81

Jamaica’s prime minister said Cliff was a ’true cultural giant' whose music carried the heart of the Caribbean island to the world.

Jimmy Cliff won a Grammy for his 2012 album, "Rebirth." Alistair Wilson 50/50/PA

Renowned reggae musician and actor Jimmy Cliff, who helped popularize the genre, has died at 81.

In an Instagram post on Nov. 24, Cliff’s family confirmed the Jamaican singer died from a seizure followed by pneumonia. Further information was not immediately known.

“I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists, and coworkers who have shared his journey with him,” his wife Latifa Chambers wrote on behalf of their family.

“To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. He really appreciated each and every fan for their love.”

Chambers went on to express gratitude for the doctors and medical staff who offered help and support during Cliff’s health complications.

“Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace,” Chambers continued. “I will follow your wishes. I hope you all can respect our privacy during these hard times.”

Tributes for Cliff have begun pouring in across social media from musicians and other public figures. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, referred to Cliff as a “true cultural giant” with music that carried the heart of Jamaica to the world.

“His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today,” Holness wrote in a statement. “We give thanks for his life, his contribution, and the pride he brought to Jamaica.”

Born James Chambers in 1944 in St. James Parish, Jamaica, Cliff moved to Kingston in the 1950s with hopes of pursuing a reggae career.

He rose to prominence in the country at just 14 years old with his first local hit, “Hurricane Hattie,” followed by other songs including “King of Kings” and “Miss Jamaica.”

Cliff later reached international stardom, signing with the world’s leading reggae label, “Island Records,” in the 1960s where he recorded more than 30 albums.

Best known for his classics “Many Rivers to Cross,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “Vietnam,” he captivated audiences with performances including at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City, where he represented Jamaica.

In the 1970s, Cliff simultaneously embarked on an acting career, starring in the 1972 film “The Harder They Come,” which featured his soundtrack of the same name. Other film credits include “Club Paradise” (1986), “Marked For Death” (1990), and “Muscle Shoals” (2013).

In 2010, Cliff was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, being one of only two Jamaicans to receive the distinction, alongside Bob Marley.

Cliff was awarded the Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2012 for “Rebirth,” which was also among Rolling Stone’s 50 Best Albums that year.

“Now, I feel I have not completed what I’m here on this planet to do,” Cliff said at the time, according to his official biography. “I have to say what I have to say and do what I have to do via music and films. Every morning I wake up, that keeps me going.”