Jimmy Cliff, reggae legend and Jamaican icon, dies at 81

Jimmy Cliff, the legendary musician who expanded the popularity of reggae around the world, has died, his family announced Monday on his official Instagram account

Jimmy Cliff, the legendary musician who expanded the popularity of reggae around the world, has died, his family announced Monday on his official Instagram account.

He was 81.

"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," his wife, Latifa Chambers, wrote on Instagram.

He was best known for songs including "Many Rivers to Cross" and "The Harder They Come," the title song for the movie of the same name from 1972, which featured Cliff. The film's soundtrack was a major international success and helped spread the appeal of Jamaican reggae.

Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said in a statement: "His music lifted people through hard times, inspired generations, and helped to shape the global respect that Jamaican culture enjoys today."