Jamaican singer dies at 81, leaving behind seminal work and global musical legacy
Jamaican music has just lost one of its legends. Jimmy Cliff, a key figure in reggae and author of masterpieces such as Reggae Night, Many Rivers to Cross and his famous cover I Can See Clearly Now, has died at the age of 81.
The announcement was made by his wife, in a moving message published on Instagram. The singer, who suffered from pneumonia, succumbed to an epileptic seizure followed by respiratory complications.
A disappearance that mourns the world of reggae
The announcement of his death was confirmed by his family via the artist’s official account. The death of Jimmy Cliff leaves a huge void in the global musical universe. Several Jamaican and international artists began to react online, saluting the man who was one of the pioneers who took reggae beyond its borders and inspired entire generations.
A singular link between Jimmy Cliff and Tunisia
Throughout his career, Jimmy Cliff has maintained a warm relationship with the Tunisian public. His concerts in Tunis and Hammamet, particularly during the 2000s, brought together thousands of fans seduced by his stage energy and his universal message.
His appearances at summer festivals – in particular the Carthage International Festival – remain engraved as strong moments where his music brought together generations, confirming the lasting attachment of the Tunisian public for the Jamaican icon.
A pioneer who shaped the identity of modern reggae
Born James Chambers, Jimmy Cliff established himself in the 1960s as one of the rising voices on the Jamaican scene. His masterful interpretation of Many Rivers to Cross, which has become a global classic, and his participation in the cult film The Harder They Come in 1972 helped to popularize reggae well before the international explosion of Bob Marley.
A visionary artist, he spans the decades by constantly renewing his music, mixing reggae, soul, pop and African influences. His hit Reggae Night marked the 1980s, while his cover of I Can See Clearly Now became one of the most broadcast songs of his career.
Jimmy Cliff was, throughout his life, an ambassador of Jamaican culture, campaigning for peace, unity and hope, values deeply anchored in his work. His music has spanned more than five decades, carried by a singular voice and a unique sense of melody.
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