So it appears the rumours were true and Jimmy Cliff will be joining Bob Marley in the US Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He will be inducted on 15 March along with Abba, Genesis, The Stooges, and The Hollies. It was thought that the official announcement wouldn’t come until early next month, but many news agencies are reporting that the final 5 have been decided.

This is a major achievement for Jimmy as he becomes only the second reggae artist to entre this prestigious academy. He faced stiff competion from the likes of KISS and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, but at last another reggae artist is acknowledged for the sterling work and service he has given to the world of music. His career started in the early 60’s with songs like “King of Kings", "Dearest Beverley” and "Miss Jamaica", but it was at the end of that decade and the beginning of the 70’s that Jimmy really came to prominence with releases such as “Many Rivers to Cross”, “Wonderful World, Beautiful People” and “Vietnam”, these songs became hits throughout most of the world, with Bob Dylan even saying that "Vietnam" was the best protest song he had ever heard. In 1972, Jimmy again caused a stir as he starred in the Perry Henzell classic reggae film, “The Harder They Come” and scored big with the subsequent album.

Many artists have covered Jimmy Cliff songs including Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, Joe Jackson, Cher, Joe Cocker, Willie Nelson, Joe Strummer, Jerry Garcia Band, Desmond Dekker, Madness, La Toya Jackson and New Order to name but a few.

So big congratulations to Jimmy Cliff and let’s hope that once again he may be able to bring some focus back on to some of today’s reggae heroes.