This week has been a tough one to swallow for people across the world, as many are still trying to come to terms with the heartbreaking loss of reggae legend Jimmy Cliff.
His passing on Monday, 24 November 2025, at the age of 81, has felt like a bitter pill to swallow for fans from all walks of life.
Cliff reportedly suffered a seizure followed by pneumonia. In a sad message shared online, his wife expressed her gratitude to the fans whose love and unwavering support lifted him throughout his extraordinary career.
A legacy of light
With his departure, Jimmy Cliff joins the timeless company of reggae giants — Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, Peter Tosh to name a few — artists whose music still plays in every corner of the globe, reminding us of the light they left behind and the lives they touched so deeply.
PM Holness honours Jimmy Cliff
Among those struggling to process the news is Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, who took to Instagram to share an emotional tribute. In his message, he reflected on the powerful role Cliff played in shaping hearts, culture, and memories, and the legacy that will continue to live on.
Letting his heart speak where words often fall short, Prime Minister Holness wrote:
“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,” wrote Holness.
Rest in power, Jimmy
Continuing with his message, Holness further wrote:
“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,” Holness.
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