Jimmy Cliff – Roots Woman

About the song

Released in 1971 as part of Jimmy Cliff’s album “The Harder They Come,” “Roots Woman” remains one of the most compelling and enduring songs in the reggae genre. This track is a prime example of Cliff’s ability to blend personal narrative with universal themes, making it a standout in his remarkable career. The album itself, which also served as the soundtrack to the iconic film of the same name, played a crucial role in introducing reggae music to a global audience and solidified Jimmy Cliff as one of the genre’s most important pioneers.

“Roots Woman” is a powerful tribute to the resilience and strength of women, particularly those who embody the spirit of the Jamaican cultural identity and heritage. In the song, Cliff sings about a woman who is not only rooted in her community but is also a beacon of strength and perseverance. The lyrics speak to the woman’s deep connection to her roots—both literally and figuratively—and her ability to navigate the challenges of life with grace and fortitude. The use of “roots” here refers to the cultural and spiritual grounding that anchors the woman, reflecting a broader theme of the importance of heritage, family, and community in the face of adversity.

In addition to its celebration of womanhood, “Roots Woman” carries a more profound social and political message. During the time of its release, Jamaica was experiencing significant social and political change. The song resonates with the struggles of the working-class, particularly women, and the ways in which they have historically carried the weight of societal expectations and hardships. Reggae music, often a reflection of the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, used songs like “Roots Woman” to amplify these voices and provide a platform for expression.

The impact of “Roots Woman” goes beyond just its lyrics; its rhythm and melody encapsulate the essence of reggae music, with its infectious groove and catchy, yet meaningful, chorus. Cliff’s voice, rich with emotion and authenticity, delivers the message with a sincerity that makes it unforgettable. The song also ties into the broader themes of “The Harder They Come,” an album that became a cultural landmark and helped bring attention to the struggles of the Jamaican people, especially through the lens of Cliff’s powerful storytelling.

Beyond its musical significance, “Roots Woman” also has cultural resonance. It reflects the role of women in shaping society, particularly in Caribbean culture, where women have long been the backbone of both family and community. The message of empowerment within the song struck a chord with listeners, particularly those who identified with the struggles of everyday life, and it remains a beloved anthem to this day.

In conclusion, “Roots Woman” by Jimmy Cliff is more than just a song—it’s a celebration of heritage, strength, and resilience. Released as part of “The Harder They Come,” it helped define an era of reggae and continues to inspire audiences around the world. Its themes of cultural pride and the empowerment of women in the face of adversity make it not only a timeless piece of music but also a vital commentary on social and political issues that remain relevant today. Through its melody, lyrics, and rhythm, “Roots Woman” exemplifies why Jimmy Cliff is considered one of the greatest voices in reggae history.

Video

Lyrics

Roots woman, roots woman
She’s a roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Roots woman, roots woman
She’s my roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Now she don’t worship diamonds
She don’t worship pearls
She don’t worship silver
She don’t worship gold

She’ll live the life she’ll love
And love the life she’ll live
And give me plenty lovin’
And it keeps me bubbling on

Roots woman, roots woman
She’s a roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Roots woman, roots woman
She’s my roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Now I don’t know what you’d say
If you saw me yesterday
But I know what you’d say
If you see I mon today

She’ll cook that country porridge
If I get her knowledge
Keep a lookin’ smashin’
And it keeps us bubbling on

And I’m talking â??bout the
Roots woman, roots woman
She’s my roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Roots woman, roots woman
She’s a roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Turn me on now
Oh, yeah
I’ll turn you on
Mmm, hmm

Sometimes we have to fuss
Sometimes we have to fight
But that don’t hinder us
From making it alright

You see, love is our foundation
Ever since creation
And funny as it seems
Nothing can come between

And I’m talking â??bout the
Roots woman, roots woman
She’s a roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Roots woman, roots woman
She’s a roots woman
It’s the truth, woman
And you turn me on

Turn me on now

Roots woman, roots woman (Oh, yeah)
She’s my roots woman (I’ll turn you on)
It’s the truth, woman (Mmm, hmm)
She’s my roots woman (Yeah)

Roots woman, roots woman (Oh, yeah)
She’s my roots woman
(Talking â??bout the roots woman, roots woman)
It’s the truth, woman
She’s my roots woman (Oh, yeah)

Roots woman, roots woman (Uh-huh)
She’s my roots woman (She’s my roots woman)
It’s the truth, woman (It’s the truth, woman)
She’s my roots woman (It’s the roots woman)

Roots woman, roots woman (And you turn me on)
She’s my roots woman (Turn me on now)
It’s the truth, woman (I turn you on)
She’s my roots woman (You turn me on)

Roots woman, roots woman (I turn you on)
She’s my roots woman (You turn me on)
It’s the truth, woman (I turn you on)
She’s my roots woman (Oh, oh)