American singer-songwriter Johnny Nash, best known for the 1972 hit “I Can See Clearly Now,” has passed away at the age of 80, according to his family.
Nash, whose health was deteriorating, died at his home of natural causes on Tuesday, according to his son.
Primarily a reggae and pop singer, Nash began singing since he was a child and made his major debut with the 1957 song “A Teenager Sings the Blues.”
Born on August 19, 1940, in Houston, Nash was the first non-Jamaican singer to record reggae music in Kingston, Jamaica.
His song “I Can See Clearly Now” sold more than a million copies, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972. The song remained on the chart for four weeks. He was also known for a hit song “Tears on My Pillow” in the UK in 1975.
The legendary singer helped reggae legend Bob Marley sign a recording contract, according to his official website.
In 1973, in an interview with Zoo World magazine, Nash told journalist Cameron Crowe that he hoped his music had wide appeal.
At the time, he said, “I feel that music is universal. Music is for the ears and not the age. Everybody likes music… from eight to 80.”
“There are some people who say that they hate music,” he added. “I’ve run into a few, but I’m not sure I believe them. Maybe they have never been without music. Know what I mean?”
Paying tribute to Nash, singer-songwriter Boy George described Nash as one of the artists who “made me fall in love” with reggae.
George tweeted, “R.I.P to the reggae legend Johnny Nash. One of the artists who made me fall in love with lovers rock and reggae music in the early 70s. So many amazing tunes and a voice like silk. I have never really known a time with reggae music. He was one of the greatest.”
Actor John Cusack also paid tribute to Nash, thanking him for allowing them to use his most famous track in the movie Grosse Pointe Blank.
Cusack wrote, “Thank you mr Nash – for all the love in your music – and for letting us use your great song – RIP.”
Singer and actress Holly Robinson Peete wrote, “Rest in peace Johnny Nash.” Fellow musician Rex Chapman said, “2020 is the worst… Rest, Sir.” Nash is survived by his wife, Carli, and son, John Nash III.
