Mother-In-Law

Allen Toussaint

About Mother-In-Law

"Mother-in-Law" is a 1961 song recorded by Ernie K-Doe. It was a number-one hit in the U. S. on both the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the Billboard R&B chart. The song was written and produced by Allen Toussaint, who also played the piano solo. It was issued by Minit Records. After several unsuccessful takes, Toussaint balled up the composition and threw it away as he was leaving the room. One of the backup singers, Willie Harper, thought that it was such a good song that he convinced K-Doe to give it one more try.  


90 
#3

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!

The worst person I know, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
She worries me so, mother-in-law,mother-in-law
If she leaves us alone, we would have a happy home
Sent down from below
Mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law

Sin should be her name, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
To me, they're about the same, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
Every time I open my mouth, she steps in, tries to put me out
How could she stoop so low?
Mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law

I come home with my pay, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
She asks me what I make, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
She thinks her advice is a contribution
But if she will leave that will be a solution
And don't come back no more
Mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law

Sin should be her name,  mother-in-law, mother-in-law
To me, they're about the same, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
Every time I open my mouth, she steps in, tries to put me out
How could she stoop so low?
Mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law, mother-in-law

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Allen Toussaint

Allen Toussaint (/ˈtuːseɪnt/; born January 14, 1938) is an American musician, composer, record producer, and influential figure in New Orleans R&B. more »

1 fan

Written by: ALLEN TOUSSAINT

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Song Creation
"Mother-in-Law" was created by legendary songwriter Allen Toussaint, who initially viewed the song as a throwaway during the recording session. It is a testament to his songwriting skills, treasured in the realm of New Orleans R&B.
Iconic Singer
The song was performed by Ernie K-Doe, making him famous. He was born in New Orleans and worked as a singer from a young age, he became an icon in the local music scene.
Chart Success
The song reached number one on the Billboard pop chart in America in 1961, enhancing the singer's career and making it his most successful song till date.
Signature Hit
Even though Ernie K-Doe had several other hits, "Mother-in-Law" remained his signature song, and he would perform it frequently at his performances later in life.
Catchy Hook
The song is notable for its catchy hook and amusing lyrics about the fraught relationship between a man and his mother-in-law.
Cultural Impact
"Mother-in-Law" has been used in numerous films and advertisement campaigns since its release, owing to its universal appeal and instantly recognizable tune.
Song Interpretation
The song has been interpreted by many artists over the years across various genres such as rock, pop, and country. It signifies its enduring popularity and crossover appeal.
Induction to Hall of Fame
In 2007, Allen Toussaint was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. He mentioned "Mother-in-Law" as one of his greatest hits during the induction.
Unique Vocal Style
Ernie's energetic and emotive vocal delivery in the song is one of its highlights, setting it apart from the other songs of its era.
Instrumental Arrangement
The song has an infectious piano riff that is typical of New Orleans-style rhythm and blues, proving Allen Toussaint's remarkable flexibility as a composer and songwriter.
Lasting Legacy
Today, "Mother-in-Law" remains a classic in American popular music and an essential part of any collection of New Orleans rhythm and blues, continuing Allen Toussaint and Ernie K-Doe's legacies.

Discuss the Mother-In-Law Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "Mother-In-Law Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Mar. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric-lf/1077063/Allen+Toussaint/Mother-In-Law>.

    Missing lyrics by Allen Toussaint?

    Know any other songs by Allen Toussaint? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    Mother-In-Law

    175K
    2,362     178

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    What is Camila Cabello's actual first name?
    A Karla
    B Rosa
    C Maria
    D Camila

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Allen Toussaint tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!