Jamaican musician Jimmy Cliff, born James Chambers, has died at the age of 81. His death was announced by his wife, Latifa Chambers, via Instagram, attributing the cause to a seizure followed by pneumonia. Cliff was recognized for his contributions to reggae music and his role in film.
Career Highlights
Cliff's recording catalog includes tracks such as "Many Rivers To Cross," "Wonderful World, Beautiful People," and "You Can Get It If You Really Want."
His lead role in the 1972 film "The Harder They Come" is noted for its impact on introducing reggae music to broader international audiences. The film was subtitled for its release in the United States due to the use of Jamaican patois by its characters.
In 1969, Cliff released "Wonderful World, Beautiful People" and the song "Vietnam." The lyrics of "Vietnam" narrate a soldier's letter home and subsequent death. Cliff once described the core of his music as "struggle," accompanied by "the hope of love."
Early Life and Musical Origins
Born James Chambers in St. James, Jamaica, in 1944, Cliff was the eighth of nine children. He commenced singing at his local church at the age of six.
At 14, he relocated to Kingston and adopted the stage name Jimmy Cliff. His composition "Hurricane Hattie" reached the top of the Jamaican charts.
In 1965, Cliff moved to London to collaborate with Island Records.