Opposition Leader Mark Golding has joined Jamaicans at home and abroad in mourning the passing of Jimmy Cliff, hailing the legendary singer, songwriter, and actor as a singular force in Jamaican culture whose influence spanned generations and continents.

In a statement, Golding said Cliff “occupied a special space in Jamaican popular music and culture,” describing his sound as incomparable, his identity as unmistakably his own, and his decades-long career as “remarkable.”

Cliff rose to prominence in the 1960s singing ska, but it was his starring role in the 1972 classic film The Harder They Come that catapulted him to international fame. Golding noted that Cliff’s mellifluous tenor and authentic youthful charisma made him a natural fit for the iconic role, which helped introduce reggae to audiences around the world.

Golding highlighted Cliff’s global reach, especially his pioneering success in South America.

“He won the hearts of the people of Brazil,” Golding said, crediting Cliff with opening new markets and broadening reggae’s international appeal.

He praised the durability of Cliff’s songwriting, calling his catalog “timeless.” As an artiste, Golding said, Cliff was “always a rebel,” using his music to champion human rights, confront injustice, and inspire personal empowerment.

Golding also reflected on Cliff’s unforgettable moment in sports history.

“His performance at the National Stadium during Jamaica’s 1998 World Cup qualifying campaign, when he sang ‘You Can Get It If You Really Want,’ he had the crowd rocking, fired up and ready to secure our slot in the finals,” he said.

Mark Golding closed his tribute with a message of gratitude and reverence.

“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.”