Reggae World in Mourning: Jimmy Cliff Dies at 81

Jamaican reggae icon Jimmy Cliff, whose songs and screen presence helped bring reggae to the world’s attention, has passed away at the age of 81, his family announced on Monday, November 24, 2025.

According to a statement by his wife, Latifa Chambers, Cliff suffered a seizure followed by pneumonia, which ultimately led to his death. In her emotional message, she thanked fans, family, and medical staff , noting that their support “was his strength throughout his whole career.”

Born James Chambers on July 30, 1944, in St. James Parish, Jamaica, Cliff built a six-decade career as a singer, multi-instrumentalist, and actor. He is celebrated for timeless hits such as “Many Rivers to Cross,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” and his cover of “I Can See Clearly Now.”

Cliff’s cultural impact went beyond music. He starred in the groundbreaking 1972 film The Harder They Come, which many credit with introducing reggae to a global audience and redefining Jamaican cinema. Over his career, he released more than 30 albums, collaborated with major artists, and earned numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

He was also honoured by his homeland with the Jamaican Order of Merit, one of the Country’s highest cultural awards.

News of his passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes worldwide. Fellow musicians, fans, and world leaders have praised Cliff as a “true legend” whose music carried “the heart of Jamaica to the world.”

As the Global reggae community mourns, they also celebrate a life defined by joy, resilience, and a deeply rooted commitment to using music as a force for unity.