Johnny Nash, R.I.P.

American born singer-songwriter Johnny Nash who became a recording star in Jamaica before attaining international acclaim with his 1972 hit "I Can See Clearly Now", has passed away at the age of 80. No cause of death has been released. 

Although known for a single song, it would be a mistake to categorize Nash as a one hit wonder. Nash began his recording career in 1956 when he signed with ABC-Paramount Records at the age of 16. He spent years releasing singles before scoring a hit on the R&B charts in 1965 called "Let's Move & Groove Together". 

Shortly after this, he moved to Jamaica and became immersed in reggae becoming fast friends with Bob Marley. In 1968, Nash would score a Top 5 Billboard hit with "Hold Me Tight". The following year his cover of Sam Cooke's "Cupid" charted just inside the Top 40. Following the success of "I Can See Clearly Now", Nash's cover of Bob Marley's "Stir It Up" finished just outside the Top 10 in 1973. 

But few singers have been so strongly associated with one song. Although clearly in the reggae genre, its optimistic message has transcended both borders and generations. Ray Charles would cover the song in 1978 as did reggae legend Jimmy Cliff 15 years later. But Johnny Nash will always have the definitive version.

Nash's passing comes only hours after the death of legendary rock guitarist Eddie Van Halen. Only a week ago, music legends Mac Davis and Helen Reddy died on the same day.

We truly need a bright, sunshiny day. Let's have Johnny Nash lead us to that brightness one more time. R.I.P.