Muddy Waters – Mannish Boy

About The Song

In the realm of the blues, few names resonate with the same level of authority and influence as Muddy Waters. A true pioneer of the genre, Waters’ distinctive sound and electrifying stage presence helped shape the course of blues music and left an indelible mark on popular culture. Among his extensive repertoire of iconic songs, “Mannish Boy” stands out as a cornerstone of the blues canon, a testament to Waters’ songwriting prowess and his ability to deliver raw, unadulterated emotion through his music.

Released in 1955, “Mannish Boy” marked a turning point in Waters’ career, catapulting him into the national spotlight and solidifying his status as a blues legend. The song’s infectious energy and Waters’ impassioned vocals quickly captivated audiences, making it a staple of his live performances and a radio favorite.

A Lyrical Prowess and a Musical Masterpiece

“Mannish Boy” is a prime example of Waters’ lyrical mastery. The song’s narrative revolves around a young man’s assertion of his maturity and sexual prowess, a theme that resonated deeply with listeners in the mid-1950s. Waters’ lyrics are infused with double entendres and sly humor, adding a layer of intrigue and depth to the song’s message.

The song’s musical structure is equally impressive, showcasing Waters’ signature slide guitar technique and the driving rhythm of the Chicago blues style. The interplay between Waters’ guitar and the harmonica, played by Little Walter Jacobs, creates a mesmerizing sonic landscape that perfectly complements the song’s lyrical intensity.

An Enduring Legacy and a Cultural Touchstone

“Mannish Boy” has had a profound and lasting impact on popular music. The song has been covered by countless artists across various genres, from blues legends like B.B. King and Howlin’ Wolf to rock icons like The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton. Each rendition has brought a unique interpretation to the song, but Waters’ original remains the definitive version, capturing the essence of the blues and showcasing his unparalleled talent.

Beyond its musical significance, “Mannish Boy” has also played a significant role in shaping American culture. The song’s themes of sexuality and self-empowerment resonated with a generation of young listeners, challenging societal norms and contributing to the burgeoning counterculture movement of the 1960s.

A Timeless Classic

“Mannish Boy” stands as a testament to the enduring power of the blues. Its infectious energy, captivating lyrics, and masterful musicianship have captivated audiences for generations, making it a true classic of American music. Muddy Waters’ legacy lives on through this masterpiece, showcasing his profound influence on the genre and his enduring status as a blues icon.

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Lyrics

Ooooooh, yeah, ooh, yeah

Everythin’, everythin’, everythin’s gonna be alright this mornin’
Ooh yeah, whoaw
Now when I was a young boy, at the age of five
My mother said I was, gonna be the greatest man alive
But now I’m a man, way past 21
Want you to believe me baby,
I had lot’s of fun
I’m a man
I spell mmm, aaa child, nnn
That represents man
No B, O child, Y
That mean mannish boy
I’m a man
I’m a full grown man
I’m a man
I’m a natural born lovers man
I’m a man
I’m a rollin’ stone
I’m a man
I’m a hoochie coochie man

Sittin’ on the outside, just me and my mate
You know I’m made to move you honey,
Come up two hours late
Wasn’t that a man
I spell mmm, aaa child, nnn
That represents man
No B, O child, Y
That mean mannish boy
I’m a man
I’m a full grown man
Man
I’m a natural born lovers man
Man
I’m a rollin’ stone
Man-child
I’m a hoochie coochie man

The line I shoot will never miss
When I make love to a woman,
She can’t resist
I think I go down,
To old Kansas Stew
I’m gonna bring back my second cousin,
That little Johnny Cocheroo
All you little girls,
Sittin’out at that line
I can make love to you woman,
In five minutes time
Ain’t that a man
I spell mmm, aaa child, nnn
That represents man
No B, O child, Y
That mean mannish boy
Man
I’m a full grown man
Man
I’m a natural born lovers man
Man
I’m a rollin’ stone
I’m a man-child
I’m a hoochie coochie man
Well, well, well, well
Hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry
Don’t hurt me, don’t hurt me child
Don’t hurt me, don’t hurt, don’t hurt me child
Well, well, well, well

Yeah