JC
Jimmy Cliff
95quotes
Full Name and Common Aliases
#### Jimmy Cliff
Jimmy Cliff is also known by his birth name James Chambers.
Birth and Death Dates
#### April 1, 1948 (still living)
Nationality and Profession(s)
#### Jamaican Reggae Singer, Songwriter, Actor
Jimmy Cliff is a legendary Jamaican reggae singer, songwriter, and actor. He has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over five decades.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Kingston, Jamaica, Jimmy Cliff was exposed to various musical genres from an early age. His mother, Annie Chambers, encouraged his interest in music by taking him to see live performances at the local cinema. Cliff's early influences included American R&B singers like Sam Cooke and The Platters.
Major Accomplishments
Jimmy Cliff achieved widespread recognition after performing on the soundtrack of the 1962 film "The Harder They Come." This cult classic cemented his status as a rising star in reggae music. His song, "Many Rivers to Cross," became a hit single and remains one of his most popular tracks.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his solo work, Cliff has collaborated with several notable artists, including Bob Marley and The Wailers. He has also appeared in various films, such as "The Harder They Come" (1962), "Rude Awakening" (1989), and "Cool Runnings" (1993).
Impact and Legacy
As a pioneering figure in reggae music, Jimmy Cliff has had a profound impact on the genre. His unique voice and style have influenced generations of musicians, including The Clash's Joe Strummer, who often covered his songs in live performances.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jimmy Cliff is widely quoted for his insightful lyrics and thought-provoking songwriting. His music addresses themes such as social justice, love, and rebellion, making him a beloved figure among fans of all ages. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Throughout his career, Jimmy Cliff has received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, he remains an influential force in the music industry, and his impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
Quotes by Jimmy Cliff
Jimmy Cliff's insights on:
"
It's important for me to go back into the ghetto, where I'm from. I still get my oxygen from there. I don't live in the ghetto anymore, but every time I go back, I'm still seeing the same things that I lived.
"
I've abused myself a lot over the years. But my voice is still intact - really, it's better.
"
People might say, 'Jimmy Cliff, you've done a lot, achieved a lot. What more can you want?'
"
Certain artists have a role to echo the echoes of the people and that’s what I’ll be doing on my next album.
"
I’ve done a lot of things to become what I’ve become, out to create and establish a musical form and I call it movie.
"
I grew up in a condition where I could have chosen to go either way, negatively or positively. So I kind of chose to go positive and that stayed with me through my life, always have to have a positive outlook on whatever situation there is.
"
People in the Hall of Fame tend to clap their hands and say, ‘OK, I’ve done it all,’ but for me, it was a new beginning.
"
I have not become the artist I believe I am. I want to become a stadium act. I’m not done at all.
"
If you go out to Hollywood you’ll find a lot of fantastic plastic people there in the business and a lot of people in life generally. They find it so hard to be themselves that they have to be plastic.
"
I was a songwriter and I’ve written some good songs, but there are lots of greater songs that I know I have inside yet to come out.
Showing 1 to 10 of 95 results