Jimmy Cliff , original rude boy and soulful reggae legend who helped spread the genre’s reach from Jamaica to the world with The Harder They Come , has died at the age of 81.

The singer’s family announced his death on Instagram, writing that he “crossed over due to a seizure followed by pneumonia.” “To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. He really appreciated each and every fan for their love,” his wife, Latifa, and children Lilty and Aken wrote. “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. See you and we see you Legend.”

Along with Toots & The Maytals — credited with coin

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