The family of singer and composer Jimmy Cliff, one of the most influential voices in the history of reggae music, announced on Monday (24) the death of the artist. According to his wife, Latifa, Cliff suffered a seizure followed by pneumonia. She thanked her fans for their support and asked for privacy during this difficult time, promising to publish more details later.
- Understands: Jimmy Cliff, ragga music icon, dies at the age of 81
This news not only revives the memory of his career, but also the enduring power of his most popular songs online — especially on Spotify, where some of his classics have accumulated tens or even hundreds of millions of copies.
At the top of the rankings on Spotify is “I can see clearly now”With more than 220 million broadcasts, according to a survey conducted by the platform. This version of Cliff is a cover of Johnny Nash’s original (1972) and gained greater popularity when it was included on the soundtrack to the film Cool Runnings. The lyrics speak of transcendence: “I see clearly now / The rain is gone / The obstacles are gone,” symbolizing optimism and renewal.
Right behind comes “You can have it if you really want it.” With over 100 million streams. Originally released in 1970, the song is recognized as a motivational anthem: Cliff wrote it at a time when he was searching for the strength to move on – and it was also part of the film The Harder They Come, in which he starred.
Another notable path is “A wonderful world and beautiful people”a 1969 single recorded by Cliff and produced by Leslie Kong. The song conveys a message of hope and unity: In the song’s lyrics, Cliff invites us to a “wonderful world,” without fights, where people learn to love each other.
“The harder they come”the title track of the iconic 1972 film, also features on playlists. It’s a song of resistance: its poignant tone and lyrics say that the harder the journey, the stronger the determination.
actually “Reggae Night” Released in 1983 on the album The Power and the Glory, it has a danceable beat and calls for celebration. Written by Amir Bayan and La Toya Jackson, it has become a reggae classic all over the world.
It appears in seventh place in the ranking “Many rivers to cross”its origin dates back to 1969. Cliff composed the song during a difficult period in his life, expressing the struggle to overcome barriers – the phrase “so many rivers to cross” became a metaphor for personal and professional challenges.
“The rebel inside me”“, another song on the list, reflects internal rebellion and the search for identity: it is one of the most expressive songs in his discography on themes of independence and resistance.
“a trip”also among the most listened to books, brings reflection on life’s path – not just physical, but emotional and spiritual. Although little talked about in biographies, her popularity on Spotify shows the depth to which she resonates with contemporary listeners.
It also includes rankings “Woman’s roots“, a tribute to women’s roots, lineage and the strength of Jamaican roots. It is one of the most important things in understanding Cliff’s relationship with his culture and identity.