The global and Reggae music motherland, Jamaica, will lay Reggae music legend, James Chambers, popularly known as Jimmy Cliff, will be finally laid to rest in his home country, Jamaica, with official funeral rites taking place on Wednesday December 17th, 2025.
Jamaican Minister of Culture and Entertainment, Olivia Grange announced on Tuesday the funeral service for departed music legend will be held at the National Indoor Sports Centre in St Andrew, Kingston, Jamaica. It will begin at 10:00 a.m.
Grammy award winning Jimmy Cliff, who passed away on November 24 at age 81, according to The Jamaican Star, is being accorded an official funeral by the Government in recognition of his immense contribution to Jamaican culture and entertainment.
Jimmy Cliff’s music and artistry transcended borders and generations,” Grange said in a media release.
This service will provide an opportunity for the country to bid farewell to an outstanding son of Jamaica, an icon.
The Jamaican Star reported that arrangements are being finalized by the Office of the Prime Minister in consultation with Grange’s ministry and the family of the acclaimed musician, singer, and actor, born James Chambers in 1944.
In keeping with Cliff’s wishes, the funeral service will feature only spoken word, dance, and music, celebrating the life and legacy of one of Jamaica’s most cherished cultural figures
Despite his painful departure, he is a globally celebrated music legend with trailblazing impact
Jimmy Cliff, born on August 3rd, 1944, He was a towering figure in reggae music and a global ambassador of Jamaican culture.
With timeless songs like The Harder They Come, You Can Get It If You Really Want, and Many Rivers to Cross, Cliff’s voice has carried messages of hope, struggle, and resilience across generations.
He was also a key influence on Bruce Springsteen, who famously adopted Cliff’s song Trapped into his live repertoire, turning it into one of the most powerful moments of his concerts.
“Thank you, Jimmy, for the inspiration, the music, and the message”, Springsteen said.
