Iconic reggae star Jimmy Cliff dies, wife reveals cause

• Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff has died at the age of 81, according to a statement from his wife, Latifa Chambers
• She said he passed following a seizure and pneumonia and thanked family, friends, fellow artists, and medical staff for their support during his final days
• Chambers also highlighted the importance of his fans, noting that their love and encouragement had been a constant source of strength throughout his career
• She asked for privacy for the family during this difficult time and said that further information would be provided later

Jimmy Cliff, the iconic reggae star who played a pivotal role in bringing Jamaica’s rhythmic music to a global audience, has died at the age of 81, his wife announced on Monday.

Latifa Chambers shared the news on Cliff’s official Instagram account, expressing her grief and gratitude to those who supported the legendary musician throughout his life. She wrote, “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.”

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Chambers continued, addressing the singer’s fans worldwide: “To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. He really appreciated each and every fan for their love.” She also acknowledged the medical staff who cared for Cliff during his final days, stating, “I also wanted to thank Dr. Couceyro and the whole medical staff, as they have been extremely supportive and helpful during this difficult process.”

Closing her tribute, Chambers offered a personal farewell: “Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes. I hope you all can respect our privacy during these hard times. Further information will be provided at a later date. See you and we see you Legend. Latifa, Lilty and Aken.”

See the heartbreaking announcement below:

Cliff, a multi-instrumentalist and singer, was best known for hits like “You Can Get It If You Really Want” and “The Harder They Come.” He is widely regarded as one of reggae’s most influential figures, second only to the late Bob Marley, with whom he collaborated early in Marley’s career.

He rose to international prominence through the 1972 film The Harder They Come, which starred Cliff and drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up in poverty. The film not only cemented his status as a major musical talent but also introduced reggae music to audiences worldwide, helping to shape the genre into a global cultural phenomenon.

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Throughout his career, Cliff remained a beloved figure in the music world, admired for his distinctive voice, socially conscious lyrics, and ability to bridge cultures through music. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy that has influenced generations of artists and fans alike.

Cliff is not the only foreign figure to have passed away recently, as similar reports involving the deaths of other notable international personalities have surfaced across various media outlets.

In a previous report, Paul Daniel "Ace" Frehley, the founding guitarist of the legendary American rock band KISS, has died, according to a statement released by his family. He was 74. His family expressed their deep grief, saying they were devastated and heartbroken by his passing. They shared that they were able to surround him with love, care, and peaceful thoughts in his final moments. Frehley is survived by his wife Jeanette and daughter Monique, and his legacy as the band’s iconic "Spaceman" will continue to be remembered.

In another report, celebrated R&B and neo-soul trailblazer D’Angelo, whose pioneering sound reshaped modern soul music, has died at the age of 51 after a long fight with pancreatic cancer, according to multiple U.S. media reports. His family announced his death on October 14, 2025, expressing both deep sadness and gratitude for the legacy he left through his music. They said his memory will live on through the songs that touched listeners around the world. The family requested privacy as they mourn the acclaimed musician.

Source: KAMI.com.gh