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The world mourns the passing of Jimmy Cliff, the celebrated Jamaican reggae singer and performer whose captivating voice was instrumental in spreading the reggae genre across the globe. He has died at the age of 81.

“It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has passed away due to a seizure and subsequent pneumonia,” wrote his spouse Latifa on social media. “I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and colleagues who walked with him on his journey. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career … Jimmy, my dear, may you rest peacefully. I will follow your wishes.” The message was also signed by their children, Lilty and Aken.

Cliff gained fame for hits including “You Can Get It If You Really Want”, I Can See Clearly Now and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People”. His optimistic sound and uplifting temperament earned him a large and longstanding fanbase.

Beyond his music accomplishments, Cliff took the lead role in the 1972’s crime drama “The Harder They Come”, a role that received critical praise and is viewed as a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema.

Jimmy Cliff was one of just a handful of musicians, including the legendary Bob Marley and others, to be honored with the esteemed Jamaican Order of Merit.

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