Jimmy Cliff: The Harder They Come

The Harder They Come is the landmark reggae soundtrack album to the 1972 film of the same name and played a pivotal role in introducing Jamaican reggae music to a global audience. Released in the UK in 1972 and in North America in 1973, the album peaked at #140 on the Billboard 200 yet achieved lasting cultural significance far beyond its chart position.

The heart of the soundtrack features performances by Jimmy Cliff, whose contributions anchor the album’s influence. While only the title track “The Harder They Come” was recorded specifically for the film, three earlier Cliff songs, including “You Can Get It If You Really Want It,” are included. The remainder of the album compiles essential reggae singles from 1967 to 1972, curated by director Perry Henzell, featuring artists such as The Melodians, The Slickers, Desmond Dekker (“007 (Shanty Town)”), and Toots and the Maytals (“Pressure Drop”).

In 2003, Rolling Stone ranked the album #119 on its 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list, and it has also appeared on major greatest-album lists from Time and Pitchfork. A foundational reggae soundtrack and an essential beach music CD for fans of classic island rhythms.