Reggae icon Jimmy Cliff has been issued an Official Passport by the Government of Jamaica. These types of passports are typically given to government officials or those who represent Jamaica’s interests overseas in an official capacity.
The legendary singer was presented with the passport by Minister of Culture, Olivia Grange on January 20.
The 72-year-old Grammy Award-winning singer is one of two living musicians to receive Jamaica’s Order of Merit, the island’s highest honor for achievement in the Arts & Sciences. The other musician is Bunny Wailer, an original member of The Wailers along with Bob Marley and Peter Tosh.
Jamaica’s ministry of culture has long been dedicated to honoring Cliff for his contributions to reggae music. In 2019, Grange’s Ministry renamed the hip strip in Montego Bay to Jimmy Cliff Boulevard. The popular avenue is located in his home parish of St. James.
Cliff was one of five performers inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.
