Walkin' Blues

Muddy Waters

About Walkin' Blues

"Walkin' Blues" or "Walking Blues" is a blues standard written and recorded by American Delta blues musician Son House in 1930. Although unissued at the time, it was part of House's repertoire and other musicians, including Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters, adapted the song and recorded their own versions. Besides "Walking Blues", Johnson's 1936 rendition incorporates melodic and rhythmic elements from House's "My Black Mama" (which House also used for his "Death Letter") and slide guitar techniques Johnson learned from House. In 1941, Waters recorded the song with some different lyrics as "Country Blues" in his first field recording session for Alan Lomax. It served as the basis for his first charting song, "(I Feel Like) Going Home", for Chess Records in 1948. He later recorded "Walkin' Blues" with lyrics closer to House's and Johnson's for his first single, released by Chess in 1950. Various musicians have recorded the song over the years, usually as an electric ensemble piece. 


Year:
2000
2:56
71 
#1

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Woke up this morning, feel 'round for my shoes,
You know 'bout that babe, had them old walkin' blues.
Woke up this morning, I feel 'round for my shoes,
You know 'bout that babe, Lord, I had them old walkin' blues.

Leavin' this morning, I had to go ride the blinds.
I've been mistreated, don't mind dying.

This morning, I had to go ride the blinds,
I've been mistreated, Lord, I don't mind dying.

People tell me walkin' blues ain't bad;
Worst old feeling I most ever had.
People tell me the old walkin' blues ain't bad.
Well it's the worst old feeling, Lord, I most ever had.

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Muddy Waters

McKinley Morganfield (April 4, 1913 – April 30, 1983), known as Muddy Waters, was an American blues musician, generally considered the "father of modern Chicago blues". He was a major inspiration for the British blues explosion in the 1960s, and was ranked No. 17 in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. more »

3 fans

Written by: Son House

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Creation Concept
"Walkin' Blues" is a track initially created by legendary blues musician Robert Johnson. He recorded it in 1936 during his first recording session. - The song is one of Johnson's most recognized and influential recordings, having an immense effect on blues music history.
Muddy Waters Version
Muddy Waters, another legendary blues artist, recorded his version of the song in 1950. His recording expanded the track's popularity and recognition further due to his distinctive style. - Waters widely known version of "Walkin' Blues" was a memorable part of his Chess Records repertoire.
Lyrics and Theme
Reflective of classic blues themes, "Walkin' Blues" lyrics describe a man who woke up in the morning feeling down and out.
Musical Arrangement
Robert Johnson's initial version was a solo performance with his voice and an acoustic guitar, while the later-recorded Muddy Waters' version included a full electric band accompanied with harmonica.
Legacy of the Song
"Walkin' Blues" has been covered by many eminent artists, including Paul Butterfield, the Grateful Dead, and Eric Clapton, extending the song's influence into rock music.
Honors and Recognitions
The song has made many appearances on various Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters compilation albums, recognizing its importance. - Johnson's original recording of "Walkin' Blues" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2017, a special Grammy award established in 1973 to honor recordings that are at least twenty-five years old, and that have "qualitative or historical significance."
Influence on Rock Music
The style and structure of "Walkin' Blues" significantly influenced rock and roll, especially the British blues movement, and has been referenced in many rock songs.
Cultural Significance
"Walkin' Blues" reflects the reality of African Americans’ daily struggles and their emotional state while living in the rural south of the US during the Great Depression. It thus has significant cultural and social relevance.
Original Recording
Robert Johnson's original recording of "Walkin' Blues" is considered a classic of Delta Blues, a style originated in the Mississippi Delta, known for its raw, passionate vocal delivery and intricate fingerpicked guitar playing.
Musical Style
While both versions adhere to the backbone of classic blues, Muddy Waters’ rendition incorporates electric Chicago blues elements, diversifying the song's sonic quality. The sharp electric guitar and harmonica leaps off the record, capturing the listener's attention immediately.

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