About the song
Have you ever heard a song that just *feels* like home? A tune that seems to capture the essence of a particular era, yet remains remarkably relevant today? **Willie Nelson’s** cover of Jimmy Cliff’s iconic reggae song, **”The Harder They Come,”** is undoubtedly one of those tracks.
Released in 2005 as part of Nelson’s album *Countryman*, this rendition of the classic reggae tune offers a fresh perspective on a familiar story. Nelson’s distinctive, weathered vocals and the accompanying country instrumentation give the song a whole new dimension. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music, and a reminder that great songs can transcend genre boundaries.
**”The Harder They Come”** is a tale as old as time: a young man’s struggle against adversity. Jimmy Cliff’s original version, released in 1972, is a reggae anthem that captured the spirit of a generation. Nelson’s cover pays homage to the original while adding a layer of heartfelt nostalgia.
The lyrics of the song paint a vivid picture of a life filled with challenges and setbacks. The chorus, **”The harder they come, the harder they fall,”** is a universal truth that has resonated with listeners for decades. Nelson’s interpretation of this line is particularly poignant, conveying a sense of both defiance and weariness.
What makes Nelson’s cover so special is the way it blends the familiar with the unexpected. The country instrumentation, with its twangy guitars and pedal steel, provides a rich and textured backdrop for Nelson’s vocals. Yet, the song’s underlying message remains the same: no matter how tough life gets, there is always hope for a better tomorrow.
If you’re a fan of classic country music, or if you simply appreciate a well-crafted song, then you owe it to yourself to listen to **Willie Nelson’s** version of **”The Harder They Come.”** It’s a timeless piece of music that will stay with you long after the final note fades away.
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
