The legendary Jamaican reggae singer and actor, Jimmy Cliff, passed away at 81 in November 2025 due to complications from a seizure and pneumonia, leaving behind a rich legacy in music and film.
Cliff transformed reggae into a global phenomenon, particularly through his iconic performance in the 1972 film "The Harder They Come," which helped launch the genre onto the world stage.
Notable for timeless hits like "You Can Get It If You Really Want" and "Many Rivers to Cross," he recorded over 30 albums throughout his six-decade career and won multiple Grammy Awards.
His contributions to music and culture earned him national accolades, including Jamaica’s Order of Merit—an honor he shared with reggae peers like Bob Marley.
The outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow artists, and public figures highlighted his status as a cultural icon and the profound impact he had on generations worldwide.
Cliff's messages of joy, resilience, and defiance resonated deeply, and his passing prompted widespread reflection on his significant role in shaping reggae music and its cultural relevance.