Little Red Rooster

Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf

About Little Red Rooster

"Little Red Rooster" (or "The Red Rooster" as it was first titled) is a blues standard credited to arranger and songwriter Willie Dixon. The song was first recorded in 1961 by American blues musician Howlin' Wolf in the Chicago blues style. His vocal and slide guitar playing are key elements of the song. It is rooted in the Delta blues tradition and the theme is derived from folklore. Musical antecedents to "Little Red Rooster" appear in earlier songs by blues artists Charlie Patton and Memphis Minnie. A variety of musicians have interpreted and recorded "Little Red Rooster". Some add new words and instrumentation to mimic the sounds of animals mentioned in the lyrics. American soul music singer Sam Cooke adapted the song using a more uptempo approach and it became a successful single on both the US rhythm and blues and pop record charts in 1963. Concurrently, Dixon and Howlin' Wolf toured the UK with the American Folk Blues Festival and helped popularize Chicago blues with local rock musicians overseas. 


Year:
1998
5:04
62 
#1

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I'm a little red rooster,
Too lazy to crow for day
I'm a little red rooster,
Too lazy to crow for day
Keep everything in the barnyard,
Upset in every way

Dogs begin to bark now,
And the hounds begin to howl
Dogs begin to bark now,
And the hounds begin to howl
Watch out stray cat,
The little red rooster's on the prowl

If you see the little red rooster
Won't you please drive him home
If you see the little red rooster
Won't you please drive him home
Been no peace in the barnyard
Since that little red rooster's been gone

I'm a little red rooster,
Too lazy to crow for day
I'm a little red rooster,
Too lazy to crow for day
Keep everything in the barnyard,
Upset in every way

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Howlin' Wolf

Chester Arthur Burnett (June 10, 1910 – January 10, 1976), known as Howlin' Wolf, was an influential American blues singer, guitarist and harmonica player. He was born in West Point, Mississippi in an area now known as White Station. more »

2 fans

Written by: Willie Dixon

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Origin of the Song
"Little Red Rooster" is originally a blues standard song. It was written and first recorded in 1961 by blues musician Willie Dixon.
Howlin' Wolf's Version
The song was notably recorded by Chicago blues musician Howlin' Wolf in 1961. This version usually referred as the definitive one that made the song popular.
First as a Hit
The Howlin' Wolf version of the song became a surprise hit. It reached number four on Billboard's Rhythm and Blues chart.
Willie Dixon's Contribution
Apart from being a songwriter, Willie Dixon was a Chicago blues artist who played the upright bass on the Howlin' Wolf recording of "Little Red Rooster", demonstrating his multi-talented abilities in the music industry.
Sam Cooke's Version
The song was later covered by American singer-songwriter Sam Cooke, and his version of "Little Red Rooster" reached number seven on Billboard's Hot R&B Sides chart.
The Rolling Stones Cover
The song was also covered by The Rolling Stones. This version reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, making "Little Red Rooster" the only blues song to reach the top of the UK chart.
International Recognition
"Little Red Rooster" is recognized as classic of Chicago blues and one of Willie Dixon's best songs, showcasing its international appeal and enduring legacy.
Instruments Used
Notably, the Howlin' Wolf and Willie Dixon version of the song features notable guitar work by Hubert Sumlin and piano by Johnny Jones, adding a unique flair to the soundtrack.
Distinct Representations
Each version of "Little Red Rooster" has individual characteristics. Howlin' Wolf's version is raw and broody, Willie Dixon’s original has a blues vibe, while Sam Cooke gives it a soulful, R&B spin.
Legacy
The song has been performed and recorded by numerous artists, solidifying its place in music history. Willie Dixon's "Little Red Rooster" is now part of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll list.

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