Jimmy Cliff was destined for greatness
Born on the night of a storm in Somerton District, Saint James, Jamaica, James Chambers, also known as Jimmy Cliff, was destined for greatness. His first hit “Hurricane Hattie” came to him at the young age of 14 years old. This was the first of many of the Grammy awardee, Rock and Roll Awardee and actor.
Along with Toots Hibbert and Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff is widely seen as one of the few who helped to bring Reggae music to the world. His international debut album Hard Road to Travel, released in 1967 was well received. The stand out song “Waterfall,” became a hit in Brazil and won the International Song Festival. Following Waterfall” in 1969 was “Wonderful World, Beautiful People” and “Vietnam” in 1970. Both songs were popular throughout most of the world. The great American singer and song writer, Bob Dylan, called “Vietnam” the best protest song he had ever heard.
The Harder They Come
Jimmy Cliff’s role of Ivanhoe “Ivan” Martin in the 1972 classic reggae film The Harder They Come, allowed the world to see him as not just another singer but as a star. The soundtrack for the film included songs such as “Many Rivers to Cross,” “Sitting in Limbo,” and the title song, all done by Cliff. His achievements in the 1970’s continues with his appearance on the first season of Saturday Night Live episode 12, hosted by Dick Cavett in 1975.
Jimmy Cliff went on to work with other great musicians such as the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen among others. He also made appearances in films such as Club Paradise staring Robin Williams; Marked for Death staring Steven Seagal. In 1985 his album Cliff Hanger won the Grammy award for the Best Reggae Album. Success also came with the cover of Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” on the Cool Runnings film soundtrack in 1993. Fans of the film The Lion King may recognize his voice on the recording of the single “Hakuna Matata”, a collaboration with Lebo M.
Achievements
His work was officially recognized by the Jamaican Government in 2003 when he was awarded The Order of Merit, the nation’s fourth-highest honour. This was in recognition of his contributions to the film and music of Jamaica. Along with Bunny Wailer he is one of only two living musicians to hold this award. On 15 March 2010, he was officially inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Wyclef Jean. Other than Bob Marley, he is the only Jamaican to achieve this feat.
Even though he has been in the music business from the early 60’s Jimmy Cliff is still very active and continues to perform around the world in his 70’s.
Photo : United Reggae