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Reggae Legend Jimmy Cliff Dies at 81

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Jamaican reggae icon and international superstar Jimmy Cliff, born James Chambers, has died at the age of 81. Family sources confirmed that the legendary musician succumbed to pneumonia after suffering a stroke.

Cliff, whose career spanned more than six decades, was one of the most influential figures in global music, credited with helping introduce reggae to international audiences long before the genre gained mainstream popularity. His death marks the end of a defining chapter in Caribbean music history.

Born in St. James, Jamaica, Cliff rose to prominence in the late 1960s with a series of hits that showcased the depth and emotional power of reggae.

His breakthrough track Many Rivers to Cross became a global classic, followed by anthems such as You Can Get It If You Really Want.

 

However, it was his starring role in the 1972 Jamaican crime drama The Harder They Come that cemented his place in global culture. Cliff played Ivanhoe “Ivan” Martin in the film, which used his hit title track as its signature soundtrack.

The production became a cultural landmark, opening the door for reggae on the world stage and setting the foundation for the international rise of Bob Marley and other Jamaican artists.

Cliff’s work resonated deeply across generations, including Zimbabweans who grew up listening to his music during the 1970s and 1980s. Many fans recall debates over songs such as *No Woman, No Cry*, famously performed by both Cliff and Bob Marley.

Although both artists delivered memorable renditions, the song was written by Marley, who credited his childhood friend Vincent “Tata” Ford so Ford could use the royalties to support a soup kitchen in Trenchtown.

Throughout his career, Cliff earned widespread recognition for his cultural impact. He received the Order of Merit, Jamaica’s third-highest national honour, for his contribution to music and national identity.

In 2010, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential musicians of his generation.

Fans and music historians say Cliff’s death is a moment of reckoning for a generation that witnessed the birth of reggae as a global force. He belonged to the pioneering wave of Jamaican musicians whose work carried the sound of Kingston to international audiences, shaping the careers of those who followed.

Jimmy Cliff leaves behind a sprawling musical catalogue, a groundbreaking film legacy, and a global community of listeners influenced by his message of resilience, hope, and cultural pride.

He is remembered as a trailblazer who helped build the bridge between Jamaican music and the world.

 

 

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Winky D, Jah Prayzah Set for New Year’s Eve Mega Concert at Hockey Stadium

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Zimbabwe’s music scene is gearing up for one of its biggest events of the year, with award winning artists Winky D and Jah Prayzah scheduled to headline a massive New Year’s Eve concert at the Hockey Stadium, inside the National Sports Stadium complex, on 31 December.

The event, titled One Big Party, is being organised by Chipaz Promotions and is expected to attract thousands of fans eager to close off 2025 in style with performances from two of the country’s most influential music heavyweights.

Promoter Partson “Chipaz” Chimbodza confirmed the concert, describing it as a landmark celebration that will bring together music lovers from across the country. He said preparations are already underway to ensure a safe, well coordinated event at one of Harare’s largest outdoor facilities.

“This is a historic show. Bringing Winky D and Jah Prayzah together on New Year’s Eve is something fans have been asking for, and we are delivering it at the highest level,” Chipaz said. “We are putting in place world class staging, lighting and security to make sure everyone enjoys the night responsibly.”

The two artists, known for commanding huge crowds and delivering high energy performances, will share the stage for the first time in several months. Winky D, popularly known as DiBigman, remains a dominant force in dancehall, while Jah Prayzah continues to set the pace in contemporary Zimbabwean music with his blend of afro fusion and traditional influences.

Music analysts say the collaboration between the two stars on such a major platform is expected to provide a significant boost to the entertainment industry, which has recorded growing demand for large-scale year end concerts.

Authorities have indicated that additional security, traffic control and emergency services will be deployed around the National Sports Stadium complex to manage the anticipated high turnout.

Event organisers are also expected to release more details on supporting acts, ticket pricing and entry guidelines in the coming weeks.

For now, excitement continues to build as Zimbabwe counts down to what is shaping up to be one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations on the entertainment calendar.

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Jah Prayzah to Shut Down HICC Tonight with Unforgettable Performance

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By Enia Dube

The highly anticipated Grand Finale of Jah Prayzah’s “Ndini Mukudzei World Tour – The Shutdown” is happening tonight at the Harare International Convention Centre (HICC).

The concert promises to be an electrifying celebration of music, culture, and Jah Prayzah’s artistic journey.

A talented lineup of supporting acts, including Tocky Vibes, Seh Calaz, Chillmaster, Tamy Moyo, Probeats, Culture Love, Godfather Templeman, Young Gemini, Malloti, Dj Iroq, and Abisha Palmer, will set the tone for Jah Prayzah’s climactic homecoming performance.

Jah Prayzah expressed his excitement about returning to HICC, saying, “Returning to HICC for the finale feels like coming full circle. This tour has connected me with fans across continents, but there is no feeling like performing for my people at home. Saturday will be a celebration of the journey, the music, and the support that has kept us moving”.

The “Ndini Mukudzei” tour has been a remarkable chapter in Jah Prayzah’s career, spanning major cities across Africa, Europe, and North America. With standout performances in Wolverhampton, Toronto, and Johannesburg, the tour has cemented Jah Prayzah’s global footprint and expanded his influence.

Gateway Stream Media Manager Elton Kurima highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “This show is the culmination of a remarkable year. Fans should expect a refined production, world-class sound, and performances that honour Jah Prayzah’s artistic growth. The Shutdown finale will be a night of excellence, passion, and unforgettable moments”.

Tickets are still available for purchase at Med Orange Pharmacies, Booties Pharmacies, Gateway Stream booth at Rainbow Towers Hotel, and The New Ambassador Hotel, or online at (link unavailable) General Access Phase 2 tickets cost $20, while VIP Access Phase 2 tickets cost $50.

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President Mnangagwa Donates Vehicles to Four Artists in Creative Sector Boost

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President Emmerson Mnangagwa has handed over vehicles to musicians Greatman, Chipo Muchegwa, Mitchell, and Tendai “GP” Mazuru in a move aimed at boosting the operational capacity of local artists.

The gesture, announced yesterday, is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen the creative industry by addressing logistical challenges that limit artists’ mobility and access to opportunities.

According to officials, the initiative was facilitated through the intervention of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Deputy Minister Honourable Tino Machakaire, who has been advocating for improved support systems for Zimbabwean creatives.

Government representatives said the vehicle donations reflect a growing recognition of the arts sector as a key contributor to national identity, social cohesion, and economic development.

The beneficiaries, all active contributors to Zimbabwe’s music landscape are expected to use the vehicles to enhance their day-to-day operations, including travel for performances, community engagements, and promotional activities.

Authorities say the programme forms part of ongoing efforts to promote talent development and ensure artists are equipped to operate efficiently in a competitive and increasingly mobile industry.

 

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