Jimmy Cliff is a Jamaican singer, songwriter and actor who became one of the major international figures of ska, rocksteady and reggae. Rising to prominence in the 1960s, he became known for his clear, expressive voice, highly accessible melodies and lyrics about hope, freedom, social hardship and resilience. With songs such as Many Rivers to Cross, You Can Get It If You Really Want and The Harder They Come, Jimmy Cliff played a crucial role in bringing reggae to a global audience.