The Harder They Come
Jimmy Cliff
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Well they tell me of a pie up in the sky Waiting for me when I die But between the day you're born and when you die They never seem to hear even your cry So as sure as the sun will shine I'm gonna get my share now of what's mine And then the harder they come The harder they'll fall, one and all Ooh the harder they come The harder they'll fall, one and all Well the oppressors are trying to keep me down Trying to drive me underground And they think that they have got the battle won I say forgive them Lord They know not what they've done So as sure as the sun will shine I'm gonna get my share now of what's mine And then the harder they come The harder they'll fall, one and all Ooh the harder they come The harder they'll fall, one and all Ooh yeah oh yeah woah yeah ooooh And I keep on fighting for the things I want Though I know that when you're dead you can't But I'd rather be a free man in my grave Than living as a puppet or a slave So as sure as the sun will shine I'm gonna get my share now of what's mine And then the harder they come The harder they'll fall, one and all Ooh the harder they come The harder they'll fall, one and all Yeah, the harder they come, The harder they'll fall one and all
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Written by: Jimmy Cliff
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Song Artist"The Harder They Come" was performed by Jimmy Cliff, a renowned Jamaican singer. He is recognized as one of the most influential reggae musicians in history.
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Album/SoundtrackThe song was the title track for the soundtrack album of the 1972 film 'The Harder They Come,' in which Jimmy Cliff also starred as the lead actor. This album is considered to be one of the best reggae albums of all time.
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Film ImpactThe song is often attributed to bringing the Jamaican music scene and the Rastafari movement to wider global attention. The film was a major breakthrough for reggae in the United States.
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Release DateThe song was released in July 1972. Despite its initial release being over 45 years ago, the song remains influential and widely recognized.
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Song ThemesThe lyrics of "The Harder They Come" express the struggles and resistance of the poor and the marginalized. Cliff's impassioned delivery and the song's catchy, upbeat rhythm make the offering an enduring anthem of resilience.
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Chart SuccessIn the UK, "The Harder They Come" peaked at number 25 in the UK Singles Chart. While it did not chart in the U.S., it continues to be popular on classic rock radio stations.
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AwardsIn 2004, Rolling Stone ranked the song #350 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
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Cover VersionsVarious artists, including Joe Jackson, Willie Nelson, and Jerry Garcia, have covered "The Harder They Come." The song's enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal and timeless message.
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Music StyleThe song is characterized by its reggae beat, a genre that was innovative and unfamiliar to many international listeners at the time of the song's release.
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Metaphorical MeaningThe phrase "The harder they come, the harder they fall" is a common English idiom meaning that the more powerful or successful someone is, the more dramatic their downfall will be. Cliff applies this phrase metaphorically to express resistance and resilience in the face of adversity.
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