Sound Opinions RIP Jimmy Cliff and Steve Cropper
Dec 10, 2025
In a touching tribute, reggae legend Jimmy Cliff and soul guitarist Steve Cropper share insights from their iconic careers. Cliff reflects on his early break with producer Leslie Kong and the evolution of reggae music. He talks about the camaraderie among reggae icons and the cultural impact of The Harder They Come. Cropper emphasizes the importance of groove in his music and recounts co-writing classics like 'Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay.' Both legends explore their influences and lasting legacies in this heartfelt conversation.
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Leslie Kong Launches Jimmy Cliff
- Jimmy Cliff recounted being discovered by Leslie Kong after many rejections and building a close, loyal working relationship with him.
- Kong trusted Jimmy's voice, paid reliably, and they stayed together until Kong's death, which launched Cliff's early career.
Reggae Is A Fusion Of Many Traditions
- Jimmy Cliff explained reggae formed from many sources: mento, calypso, jazz, Latin, and American R&B.
- He emphasized jazz musicians and local innovators combined influences to create a distinct Jamaican identity in the sound.
Tempo Reflects Social Change
- Jimmy Cliff traced reggae's shift from upbeat ska to slower rocksteady to roots reggae as social conditions changed.
- He tied the musical tempo and spiritual turn toward Rastafari to questions of identity and political struggle after independence.