About the song
In the world of music, few artists have the depth and emotional range of **Willie Nelson**, a true icon whose career has spanned decades and whose influence extends far beyond the country music scene. Known for his distinct voice and laid-back, yet deeply evocative style, Nelson has the ability to bring a unique touch to any genre he explores. One of his most intriguing covers is his rendition of **”The Harder They Come”**, originally written and performed by the legendary reggae artist Jimmy Cliff.
When Willie Nelson took on this song, he brought a fresh perspective to it, melding his signature country sound with the roots of reggae. **”The Harder They Come”** is a song that resonates with themes of struggle, resilience, and resistance, much like the broader spirit of Nelson’s own music. By interpreting the song in his distinctive style, Willie Nelson doesn’t just pay homage to the original but makes it his own. The pairing of his mellow voice with the rhythmic intensity of reggae creates an interesting contrast, yet it feels completely natural.
The song itself tells the story of a man who faces immense challenges, yet continues to stand tall in the face of adversity. This message aligns perfectly with the ethos of Nelson’s career, one marked by a defiant individualism and a life spent challenging norms. Willie’s version of **”The Harder They Come”** strips away some of the reggae elements, leaning into the simplicity and purity of the country sound, while still preserving the core of the original’s message.
For those familiar with both **Willie Nelson** and Jimmy Cliff, this cover is a testament to how music can transcend boundaries. Willie’s version may be quieter, but it carries the same weight of defiance and courage. It’s a song for anyone who has ever faced an uphill battle, a reminder that no matter how hard the world comes at you, there’s always a way to persevere.
Video
Lyrics
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
