On the debut Episode of Rootsland's "Kingston to Cali" Host Henry K meticulously details the significance of 1973, a landmark year that saw the release of 'The Harder They Come', a film that not only popularized reggae but also painted a vivid picture of the socio-economic struggles in Jamaica. The episode highlights how this film and its soundtrack, featuring legendary artists, helped to illuminate the realities of life in Jamaica, bringing awareness to issues of social justice and the human condition.

The narrative takes a deeper dive into the symbiotic relationship between reggae and the American counterculture, particularly as it relates to the Grateful Dead and their followers. Henry discusses how reggae’s messages of unity and resistance found a welcoming audience among California’s hippie community, who were disillusioned by the commercialization of rock music. Additional Commentary by Roger Steffens and Jesse Jarnow

Produced by Henry K in association with Voiceboxx Studio Red Hills, Jamaica

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Special thanks to Rogers Steffens, Lance Linare, Jenje Dennis, Jesse Jarnow and Rich Mahan, Dan Sheehan

Intro by Kim Yamaguchi

"Mixed up Moods" Jacob Miller "Pablo's Satta" Augustus Pablo

"Concrete Jungle " The Wailers "The Harder they Come" Jerry Garcia Band

"Johnny Too Bad" The Slickers "The Harder they Come" Jimmy Cliff