JAMAICA | PNP President Mark Golding, Former Prime Minister PJ Patterson mourn the passing of Jimmy Cliff, OM

“ I join the nation in mourning the passing of James ‘Jimmy Cliff’ Chambers, O.M., a legendary son of Jamaica whose influence on our culture and global music is immeasurable.

Jimmy Cliff has occupied a special space in Jamaican popular music and culture. His sound was like no other. His identity was unique. His musical longevity is remarkable.

“His musical career began singing ska tunes in the 1960s, but his mellifluous tenor voice and youthful authentic charisma earned him the lead role in 1972’s classic film “The Harder They Come”, which launched him to international stardom as one of Jamaica’s leading reggae artists.

He went on to pioneer new markets for reggae in many parts of the world, including South America, especially Brazil, where he won the hearts of the people.

“The quality of his songwriting ensures that his many hits will be timeless. Always a rebel, his cause was the upliftment of humanity from injustice and oppression, interlaced with anthems of personal empowerment that have inspired generations.

“Football lovers will remember his iconic performance at the National Stadium for Jamaica’s final World Cup qualifying match in the Road to France 1998 Campaign, when he sang “You can get it if you really want” and had the crowd rocking, fired up and ready to secure our slot in the finals.

“Rest In Peace and Power, Jimmy Cliff. We mourn your loss, and we celebrate your life.

Thank you for giving us so much to carry forward into posterity

“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the passing of Jimmy Cliff – an iconic pioneer whose crystalline voice and visionary artistry transformed Jamaican music into a global phenomenon.

“Jimmy Cliff was more than a musician; he was a cultural architect who helped build the bridge that connected Jamaica’s soul to the consciousness of the world.  When we honoured him with the Order of Merit in October 2003, we recognized what the global community had long known: that his contributions to music and film had achieved eminent international distinction and brought immeasurable pride to our nation.

“The creative genius of this legend ensures the immortality of one who sought to inspire and uplift.  Through songs like “Many Rivers to Cross,” “The Harder They Come, and “Wonderful World, Beautiful people,” Jimmy gave voice to the struggles, dreams and indomitable spirit of our people.  His music was never merely entertainment – it was prophecy, protest, and celebration all at once. 

“I remember vividly the impact of The Harder They Come in 1972.  That film, with Jimmy’s magnetic performance and unforgettable soundtrack, shattered stereotypes and showed the world an authentic Jamaica, complex, vibrant, resilient, and unapologetically real.  In doing so, he opened doors not just for reggae music, but for an entire generation of Caribbean artists who followed in his pioneering footsteps.  

“Born during the Atlantic Hurricane of 1944 in Somerton, Jimmy’s life was marked by the same elemental power that welcomed him into this world.  Somerton holds a special place in my own heart – as it is where I went to live with my Aunt, Doris Carter-Henry, Postmistress, and attended elementary school.  

“There the rich black earth and rolling hills shaped my early years just as they shaped Jimmy’s.  Perhaps that shared foundation gave us both an understanding of what it means to carry your community’s hopes and dreams beyond the boundaries of where you began.

“Jimmy weathered every storm – personal, professional, and creative – with grace and determination.  From his humble beginnings to international stages, from the hills of St. James to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he never forgot where he came from or who he represented.  As we mourn his passing, coming just weeks after Hurricane Melissa devastated his native St. James, we are reminded of the cyclical nature of life itself.

“But while storms pass, legacies endure.  Jimmy Cliff’s music will continue to inspire.

His message will continue to resonate, and his contributions will continue to elevate Jamaica’s cultural standing for generations to come.  To his wife Latifa, his children and to all his family and friends, I extend my deepest condolences.  Jamaica has lost a veritable giant but heaven has gained a voice that surely will make even the angels stop and listen.

“Jimmy Cliff proved that a boy from the Jamaican countryside could conquer the world through talent, determination and an unwavering belief in the power of music. He crossed many rivers indeed, climbed many cliffs, and in doing so, showed all of us that with perseverance and vision, beautiful worlds are not just possible – they are inevitable.

“May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his music continue to uplift humanity now and forever more.

The Most Honourable P J Patterson, ON, OCC, OE, KC

Former Prime Minister of Jamaica.