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Global audiences grieves the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican-born reggae singer and performer whose distinctive voice was instrumental in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. The artist passed away at the age of 81.

“It’s with profound sadness that I announce that my beloved husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his wife Latifa Chambers on Instagram. “I am thankful for his family, friends, peers in the arts and colleagues who shared his life’s path. To all his fans globally, please know that your support was his motivation throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes.” The message was co-signed by their offspring, Lilty and Aken.

Cliff was beloved for hit songs including You Can Get It If You Really Want, “I Can See Clearly Now” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His upbeat musical style and positive spirit brought him a large and longstanding following.

In addition to his musical accomplishments, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972’s drama film The Harder They Come, a role that was highly acclaimed and is considered a landmark of film in Jamaica.

Jimmy Cliff was among the select few of musicians, alongside Bob Marley and others, to be awarded the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.

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