Observer Online presents the sixth story in ‘Jimmy Cliff: Stories Of A Bongo Man’, in tribute to the reggae legend who died on November 24 at age 81. This seven-part series looks at different aspects of the singer-songwriter’s life.

One of reggae’s great road warriors, Jimmy Cliff performed in countless countries, spreading Jamaican culture to diverse centres. However, the legendary singer-songwriter only did a handful of shows in Jamaica.

Cliff, who died on November 24 at age 81, made a triumphant return to his homeland at Rebel Salute in January 2005. The show, held at Port Kaiser Sports Complex in St Elizabeth, was dubbed “Back To The Foundation”, and featured roots-reggae giants such as Max Romeo, Johnny Clarke and Sly and Robbie.

Cliff was the star of the evening, performing for over two hours. His set, comprising songs from his illustrious career, covered ska (Miss Jamaica), early reggae (Wonderful World, Beautiful People), contemporary reggae (Rebel in Me, Reggae Night) and his signature, The Harder They Come.

Tony Rebel, organiser of the annual event, told Observer Online that he first tried getting Cliff for Rebel Salute in 1996, the third year it was held.

“Him tell mi him couldn’t do it, an’ I think I called him another time. Then, in 2005 is him call mi an’ tell mi sey him ready, an’ mi mek di preparations,” Rebel recalled.

He rates Cliff’s performance as one of the finest in Rebel Salute’s 30-year history.

“Nobody move, nobody get hurt! Nobody complained about his performance,” said Rebel.

While the “elders” held the spotlight, the new wave of roots-reggae was strongly represented at Back To The Foundation. Buju Banton, Luciano, Richie Spice, Jah Mason and Chezidek also took the stage at Rebel Salute 2005.

The songs Jimmy Cliff recorded for producer Leslie Kong’s Beverley’s Records in the 1960s made him a star in Jamaica and the United Kingdom that decade. His starring role as Ivan in The Harder They Come — director/writer Perry Hezell’s 1972 movie — earned him superstar status before he was 30 years-old.

Cliff’s globetrotting limited his appearances in Jamaica. His last major event at home was the Grand Gala at the National Stadium in Kingston in August 2017 when he was presented with a National Icon Award by Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

Tony Rebel, who last spoke to Cliff two years ago, said they always discussed him making a return to Rebel Salute.

“Him was always willing, but him sey him wanted to do something in his parish (St James),” he disclosed, adding: “Jimmy was one a dem character dey wey different. He helped take Jamaica an’ Jamaican culture to di four corners of di Earth. Rest in Power.”