“You can get it if you really want.
You can get it if you really want.
You can get it if you really want.
But, you must try, try and try.
Try and try. Try and try…
you’ll succeed at last!”
Reggae icon, Jimmy Cliff went from local vocalist to world renown actor and singer/songwriter after the debut of the feature film, “The Harder They Come”. The accompanying soundtrack gave way to a host of guest musicians who would go on to create hits following the movie’s success.
Desmond Dekker, Toots and the Maytals, the Melodians, Scotty, and The Slickers came together to create a compilation of the best music coming out of Jamaica during that time.
Check The Vibe
The Harder They Come turned out to be a cult-classic that still defines the quality of music rising from the small island of Jamaica. Starring Jimmy Cliff, the film highlights the struggles of a young man trying to make a living in the big city. He is confronted by obstacles, enemies, and a dark past that eventually comes back to haunt him. Through it all the music chronicles the journey of one’s life and how loyalty reigns supreme.
For its 40th anniversary, the Harder They Come was re-released in the United States and showcased Jamaican singer Jimmy Cliff in his thrilling role as Ivan Martin who turns to a life of crime after he is hoaxed by a deceitful record producer. What was originally a crooked deal turns into a wild ride that leads to an untimely homicide.
Modeled after old westerns that would play in Jamaica, Jimmy Cliff’s iconic pose holding two handguns makes for a fan favorite and must see moment in this film that is just as relevant today as it was 40+ years ago.