Grammy-winning reggae legend Jimmy Cliff dies at 81 – | Music News

Reggae and soul icon, Jimmy Cliff, has died at the age of 81.

The legendary musician, identified for his chart-topping hits such as the 1970 anthem You Can Get It If You Really Want and 1969’s Many Rivers To Cross, handed away from pneumonia following a seizure, as announced by his spouse Latifa Chambers on Monday, November 24.

A heartfelt message was shared on his official Facebook and Instagram pages: “It’s with profound disappointment that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure adopted by pneumonia. I’m grateful for his household, buddies, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him.

“To all his followers around the world, please know that your assist was his strength throughout his entire profession. He actually appreciated each and every fan for their love. I also needed to thank Dr. Couceyro and the entire medical workers, as they’ve been extraordinarily supportive and helpful during this troublesome course of. Jimmy, my darling, might you relaxation in peace. I’ll comply with your needs,” the statement continued.

“I hope you all can respect our privateness during these onerous occasions. Further data can be offered at a later date. See you and we see you (*81*),” the statement concluded, signed off by his wife and their two children, Lilty and Aken, reports the Mirror US.

Jimmy, born as James Chambers in Jamaica in 1944, kick-started his music career after moving to Kingston and collaborating with producer Leslie Kong. His first local hit that skyrocketed his career was Hurricane Hattie.

Subsequently, he signed a deal with Island Records in 1964 and then relocated to the United Kingdom. The record label initially attempted to promote Jimmy to a rock audience. However, he found success in the UK charts with his ska hit, Wonderful World, Beautiful People.

Throughout his illustrious music career, Jimmy won two Grammy Awards, Best Reggae Album for Rebirth in 2012 and for Cliff Hanger in 1985.

In 2010, he was bestowed with the honor of induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Jimmy was one of only two Jamaicans to receive this honor, sharing the distinction with Bob Marley.

He also joined the ranks of a select few artists, including Marley, to hold the Order of Merit. This award is the highest honor that can be conferred by the Jamaican government for achievements in the arts and sciences.

Apart from his musical journey, he also made an appearance in the 1972 movie The Harder They Come, which propelled reggae to international fame through its soundtrack. Jimmy featured prominently on the album and had a titular track of the same name.

Additionally, Jimmy starred in the 1986 American comedy Club Paradise, alongside Robin Williams, Twiggy, and Peter O’Toole.

Jimmy is survived by his wife Latifa and their two children, Lilty and Aken. He also has a daughter, actress-singer Nabiyah Be, from a previous relationship.

What was Jimmy Cliff’s net worth?

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Jimmy had a web price of $5 million.

The Jamaican native’s last album, Refugees, was launched in 2022 and was a collaboration with Wyclef Jean. Throughout his profession, Jimmy labored with quite a few other artists, including the Rolling Stones, Annie Lennox, and Sting.

His music was lined by many icons, including Bruce Springsteen, who popularized his tune Trapped. His basic monitor, Many Rivers To Cross, impressed variations from Annie Lennox, UB40, and Cher.

Jimmy took a transient hiatus from music in the mid-late 70s after touring and releasing albums throughout the last decade. He even carried out on Saturday Night Live in 1976.

During his break, he traveled to Africa to reconnect with his ancestry and transformed to Islam. His 1978 album Give Thankx was partially influenced by his travels.

Jimmy skilled a resurgence of success in the 90s when he carried out Johnny Cash’s I Can See Clearly Now for the 1993 Disney film Cool Runnings, a movie about the Jamaican national bobsleigh crew.