The music world mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the iconic reggae musician who passed away at the age of 81. His family confirmed the news on Monday, revealing that Cliff succumbed to pneumonia following a seizure. His wife, Latifa Chambers, expressed her gratitude for the support of his family, friends, fellow artists, and fans worldwide, emphasizing how much their love meant to him throughout his illustrious career. Born James Chambers, Cliff played a pivotal role in bringing reggae to a global audience, particularly through his starring role in the groundbreaking film *The Harder They Come*. His journey began in Kingston, where he recorded several singles before achieving chart-topping success with *Hurricane Hattie*, one of his early works for Beverly Records. Cliff’s music blended pop and ska influences, and after moving to London in 1965, he expanded his sound to include soul and Rhythm and Blues, eventually solidifying his place as a reggae pioneer. By the late 1960s, he had gained international acclaim, with his album *Wonderful World, Beautiful People* becoming a global sensation. His contributions to *The Harder They Come* soundtrack, including classics like *Many Rivers to Cross* and *Sitting in Limbo*, cemented his status as reggae’s brightest star. Cliff’s legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
