Sean Paul, Yusuf/Cat Stevens & More Pay Tribute to Reggae Icon Jimmy Cliff
The music world is in mourning following the announcement of the passing of Jimmy Cliff, the legendary reggae pioneer, who died at the age of 81 due to complications from a seizure and pneumonia. His wife, Latifah Chambers, confirmed the news on Monday, November 24, prompting an outpouring of tributes from artists across various genres, all celebrating Cliff’s monumental impact on music and culture. Known for his powerful voice and profound lyrics, Cliff was not only a key figure in the reggae genre but also a global ambassador for Jamaican music. His work transcended boundaries, influencing countless musicians and fans around the world.
Tributes have flooded social media, with reggae and dancehall artists leading the charge. Sean Paul was among the first to pay his respects, sharing a poignant black-and-white image of Cliff on Instagram and calling him a “real general.” Paul’s tribute encapsulated the sentiments of many fans who recognized Cliff as a foundational artist who helped shape reggae’s global identity. Yusuf/Cat Stevens, whose song “Wild World” became one of Cliff’s signature hits, also expressed his admiration, highlighting Cliff’s powerful presence and the messages of peace embedded in his music. The Marley family, too, took a moment to honor Cliff, recalling his instrumental role in the early career of Bob Marley, including bringing him to producer Leslie Kong in 1962 to record his first singles. This connection underscores Cliff’s significance not only in his own right but also in the broader narrative of reggae’s evolution.
Other artists, such as Shaggy and UB40’s Ali Campbell, joined the chorus of tributes, with Shaggy reflecting on Cliff’s enduring legacy and Campbell recognizing him as a “reggae forefather.” Cliff’s music, including timeless classics like “Many Rivers to Cross,” has left an indelible mark on the genre, making him a true icon whose influence will resonate for generations to come. As the music community comes together to celebrate his life, it is clear that Jimmy Cliff’s spirit and contributions to reggae will live on, continuing to inspire both artists and fans alike.
Tributes from across the music world are
pouring in for Jimmy Cliff
, the reggae pioneer whose death was announced earlier this week.
Cliff, 81, died following a seizure and pneumonia, according to a statement shared by his wife, Latifah Chambers, on Monday (Nov. 24). While the family confirmed his passing, artists across genres — dancehall, pop, rock and reggae royalty — are now publicly honoring the singer’s legacy.
Sean Paul was among the first to
share a tribute
, posting a black-and-white image of Cliff on Instagram and writing, “R.I.P 2 a real general. He hit them the harder they came. Fly high my G.” Fans immediately echoed the sentiment, remembering Cliff as one of the musicians who helped shape the global identity of reggae.
Yusuf/Cat Stevens, whose 1970 song “Wild World” became one of Cliff’s signature recordings, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook. “A powerful presence,” he wrote. “God bless him. His songs always had some message of peace — may he find it now and forever.”
The Marley family also honored him, noting Cliff’s pivotal role in Bob Marley’s early career. “Jimmy was an instrumental figure in Bob’s coming up,” they wrote on Instagram. “He brought him to producer Leslie Kong in 1962 to record his very first singles, ‘Judge Not’ and ‘One Cup of Coffee.’” The post included a smiling throwback photo of Cliff, a reminder of the deep roots the two shared inside Jamaica’s music history.
Shaggy added his own tribute with a photo of the pair onstage together. “Saddened to hear about the passing of the legendary Jimmy Cliff,” he wrote. “His voice, his message, and his spirit helped shape the soul of reggae music. We’ve lost a true icon, but his light and legacy will live on forever.”
UB40 frontman Ali Campbell described Cliff as a “reggae forefather,” writing, “A true foundation, a pillar of our music, and one of the first to carry reggae out into the world. Rest Easy King, ‘Many Rivers to Cross.’”
