Mayor of Montego Bay, Richard Vernon is among those paying tribute to the late Jimmy Cliff- who has been described as a son of St James.
Hailing from Somerton in the parish, Cliff was noted for his prolific song writing skills, memorable acting, and championing of human rights.
Mayor Vernon said Cliff’s passing has left the entertainment fraternity and millions of admirers across the globe in shock and grief.
He also noted that the St. James Municipal Corporation had renamed Gloucester Avenue as Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, a symbolic gesture to enshrine the memory of the international reggae icon.
In the meantime, Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby said Cliff’s story reminds Jamaicans that even when the road feels rough, resilience remains among the strongest traits.
Swaby added that Cliff’s journey was also one of achievement and respect.
Also hailing the late reggae icon is former Prime Minister PJ Patterson.
He said Cliff was not only a musician; but a cultural architect who helped build the bridge that connected Jamaica’s soul to the consciousness of the world.
And the governing Jamaica Labour Party in its tribute described Cliff as a legend.
JLP Communication Task Force Chairman, Senator Abka Fitz-Henley said Cliff’s contribution to global consciousness via his music is of vast significance and tremendous impact.
And, in recognition of Cliff’s role as cultural ambassador, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett hailed the icon as a trailblazer whose voice, vision and artistry helped place Jamaica at the centre of the world’s cultural imagination.
For its part, the British High Commission acknowledged Cliff’s impact on Jamaican music beyond the island shores.
Cliff lived in the United Kingdom for several years as his international career developed.
The Commission said Cliffs time in Britain also helped strengthen cultural bridges between the UK and Jamaica.
