Jimmy Cliff, reggae legend and film actor, dies at 81

Jimmy Cliff, the Jamaican songwriter and film star behind hit songs including “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “Many Rivers to Cross”, has died aged 81.

- ROISIN O'CONNOR

The news was announced by his wife, Latifa Chambers, in a post to Cliff’s official Instagram page which said: “It’s with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him. To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career.”

Ms Chambers said her husband appreciated “each and every fan” for the love they showed him, while also thanking the medical team who were “extremely supportive and helpful during this difficult process”.

“Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace,” she added. “I will follow your wishes. I hope you all can respect our privacy during these hard times.” Her message was cosigned by the couple’s children, Lilty and Aken.

The Jamaican prime minister, Andrew Holness, was among those paying tribute to Cliff, calling him “a true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world...

“Jimmy Cliff told our story with honesty and soul. His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today.” Born James Chambers in the village of Somerton, on the northwest of the island, on 30 July 1944, he was one of nine children raised by their father in a three-bedroom home. His remarkable voice made him a local celebrity aged six, when he began singing in his local church.