Jimmy Cliff, reggae singer and star of 'Harder They Come,' dies at 81
by Jessica Inman · UPINov. 24 (UPI) -- Iconic reggae singer Jimmy Cliff has died. He was 81.
His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his death on Instagram Monday morning.
"It's with profound sadness that I share that my husband, Jimmy Cliff, has crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia," she wrote. "I am thankful for his family, friends, fellow artists and coworkers who have shared his journey with him."
"To all his fans around the world," she continued. "Please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career."
Cliff's career included a pair of Grammy wins, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the starring role in the 1972 film The Harder They Come. His best-known songs included "The Harder They Come," recorded for the movie, "Many Rivers to Cross" and "You Can Get It If You Really Want."
"His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today," said Andrew Holness, the prime minister of Jamaica, per NBC News.
Latifa Chambers concluded her message by asking for privacy.
"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," she said.