James Chambers OM, Globally Known As Jimmy Cliff Has Died

James Chambers OM, globally known as Jimmy Cliff, the actor, and one of the most influential voices in reggae history, died in Jamaica, on November 2025 at the age of 81. His death, confirmed by his wife Latifa, came after a seizure followed by pneumonia. At the time of his passing, Cliff was the only living musician to hold Jamaica’s prestigious Order of Merit, the nation’s highest recognition for contributions to the arts and sciences. For more than six decades, he stood as one of reggae’s most radiant ambassadors, his emotionally charged voice, electric stage presence, and deeply human songwriting bringing the sound of Jamaica to global audiences long before reggae became an international force. His classics—“Many Rivers to Cross,” “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” “The Harder They Come,” “Vietnam,” “Reggae Night,” and his famed covers of “Wild World,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “I Can See Clearly Now”—became universal anthems of struggle, hope, and resilience.

Born on 30 July 1944 in rural Saint James, Jamaica, Cliff began writing songs as a schoolboy inspired by a neighbor’s sound system. At 14, he moved with his father to Kingston, adopted the stage name “Jimmy Cliff,” and began hustling to break into the music industry. In a legendary encounter, he convinced producer Leslie Kong to start a record label and record him, resulting in his first hit, “Hurricane Hattie,” at just 17. By the mid-1960s, Cliff had become one of Jamaica’s brightest young stars, representing the nation at the 1964 World’s Fair and appearing in the classic program This Is Ska! Soon after signing with Island Records, he moved to the UK and scored critical acclaim with Hard Road to Travel and international hits like “Wonderful World, Beautiful People” and “Vietnam,” the latter lauded by Bob Dylan as the greatest protest song he had ever heard.

Cliff’s international legacy deepened with his iconic role in the 1972 film The Harder They Come, where his portrayal of Ivanhoe “Ivan” Martin—and the soundtrack powered by his remarkable vocals—helped introduce reggae to millions and laid the groundwork for the genre’s global expansion. He continued acting in films such as Club Paradise and Marked for Death, while his music flourished through the 1970s and 1980s. Cliff’s collaborations spanned generations and genres: he sang on Saturday Night Live, recorded with Kool & the Gang, performed with The Rolling Stones, and contributed to the anti-apartheid anthem “Sun City.” His rendition of “Trapped” became a highlight of Bruce Springsteen’s live shows, amplifying its worldwide reach. Cliff’s artistry earned him two Grammy Awards—for Cliff Hanger in 1985 and Rebirth in 2012—and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, Cliff remained a vital and innovative force. He collaborated with artists including Joe Strummer, Annie Lennox, Sting, and Tim Armstrong, appeared at major international festivals, and continued releasing acclaimed music, including the 2022 album Refugees. His live performances, renowned for their joy, spirituality, and vitality, remained among reggae’s most cherished experiences. Though his spiritual beliefs shifted over time—from Christianity to Rastafari to Islam—Cliff ultimately described himself as having a “universal outlook,” guided more by science and reflection than any single religion.

The St. James born singer is survived by his wife Latifa, his children Lilty and Aken Cliff, and his daughters, actress and singer Nabiyah Be and Oblessa Chambers. In her emotional announcement, Latifa expressed her profound grief, saying: “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.” She offered heartfelt gratitude to fans around the world: “Your support was his strength throughout his whole career. He really appreciated each and every fan for their love.” She also thanked the medical staff who cared for him in his final days, adding, “They have been extremely supportive and helpful during this difficult process.” Her farewell closed with a tender message: “Jimmy, my darling, may you rest in peace. I will follow your wishes… See you and we see you, Legend.”

Jamaica’s Prime Minster Andrew Holness released a statement saying, “Today, Jamaica pauses to honour the life of the Honourable Jimmy Cliff, OM, a true cultural giant whose music carried the heart of our nation to the world. Through timeless songs like Many Rivers to Cross, The Harder They Come, You Can Get It If You Really Want, and Sitting in Limbo, 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. We give thanks for his life, his contribution, and the pride he brought to Jamaica. I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and to every Jamaican, I know we feel this loss deeply. Walk good, Jimmy Cliff. Your legacy lives on in every corner of our island and in the hearts of the Jamaican people.“