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Jamaican reggae icon Jimmy Cliff has died at the age of 81. His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced the news on Instagram, saying he passed away after a seizure followed by pneumonia.
Cliff, born James Chambers in 1944, was known worldwide for hits including “Many Rivers To Cross,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People.” He played the lead role in the 1972 film The Harder They Come, a project widely credited with bringing reggae music to an international audience.
Raised in poverty in St. James, Jamaica, Cliff began singing in church as a child before moving to Kingston at 14, where he launched his recording career. His music later earned global acclaim, Grammy Awards, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.
Cliff continued performing into his later years and received Jamaica’s Order of Merit for his contributions to music and culture.
He is survived by his wife and children.
