• Reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff passed away at 81 due to a seizure followed by pneumonia.
• He was known for classics like “The Harder They Come” and “Many Rivers to Cross.”
• Cliff’s role in the film "The Harder They Come" helped introduce reggae to a global audience.
• He was instrumental in the success of reggae music alongside other legends like Bob Marley.
• Over his six-decade career, Cliff won two Grammy Awards and influenced generations worldwide.

Jimmy Cliff, the iconic reggae musician, has died at the age of 81, as confirmed by his wife Latifa Chambers. His death was attributed to a seizure followed by pneumonia. She shared the news on social media, stating, "To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career" according to BBC, CBS News, and Reuters.

Born James Chambers on July 30, 1944, in Jamaica, Cliff's career began early with the hit "Hurricane Hattie" when he was just 14. He later gained international fame for his role in the 1972 film "The Harder They Come," a crucial film that illustrated the realities of Jamaican life and introduced reggae music to the world, shaping the genre's recognition globally according to Los Angeles Times, SFGate, and Africa News.

Throughout his career, Cliff released over 30 albums with timeless hits like "Many Rivers to Cross" and "You Can Get It If You Really Want." His work addressed significant social issues, resonating deeply not just in Jamaica but worldwide. Cliff's contribution to the genre alongside Bob Marley and others helped propel reggae into the mainstream, with his message of resilience and hope transcending barriers according to Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness referred to Cliff as "a true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world," underlining Cliff's enduring impact on Jamaican culture and identity. The legacy of his music continues to inspire new generations while commemorating the struggles and triumphs of his people according to Le Monde and NPR.