Hellhound on My Trail

Robert Johnson

About Hellhound on My Trail

"Hellhound on My Trail" (originally "Hell Hound on My Trail") is a blues song recorded by Mississippi Delta bluesman Robert Johnson in 1937. It was inspired by earlier blues songs and blues historian Ted Gioia describes it as one of Johnson's "best known and most admired performances—many would say it is his greatest".


Year:
1999
2:39
109 

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I got to keep movin', I got to keep movin'
Blues fallin' down like hail, blues fallin' down like hail
Hmmm-mmm, blues fallin' down like hail, blues fallin' down like hail

And the days keeps on worryin' me
There's a hellhound on my trail, hellhound on my trail
Hellhound on my trail

If today was Christmas Eve, if today was Christmas Eve
And tomorrow was Christmas Day
If today was Christmas Eve, and tomorrow was Christmas Day
Aw, wouldn't we have a time, baby?

All I would need my little sweet rider just
To pass the time away, huh-huh
To pass the time away

You sprinkled hot foot powder, mmm
Mmm, around my door, all around my door
You sprinkled hot foot powder
All around your daddy's door, hmm-hmm-hmm

It keep me with ramblin' mind, rider
Every old place I go, every old place I go

I can tell the wind is risin', the leaves tremblin' on the tree
Tremblin' on the tree
I can tell the wind is risin', leaves tremblin' on the tree
Hmm-hmm hmm-mmm

All I need's my little sweet woman
And to keep my company, hey, hey, hey
My company

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Robert Johnson

Robert Leroy Johnson (May 8, 1911 – August 16, 1938) was an American blues singer and musician. His landmark recordings from 1936–37 display a combination of singing, guitar skills, and songwriting talent that has influenced later generations of musicians. Johnson's shadowy, poorly documented life and death at age 27 have given rise to much legend, including the Faustian myth that he sold his soul at a crossroads to achieve success. As an itinerant performer who played mostly on street corners, in juke joints, and at Saturday night dances, Johnson had little commercial success or public recognition in his lifetime. more »

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Written by: Robert Johnson

Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Historical Significance
"Hellhound on My Trail" by Robert Johnson is considered to be a cornerstone of Delta Blues genre and has historical significance. It's widely recognized as one of the greatest songs in the history of blues.
About the Artist
Robert Johnson is an iconic figure in the world of blues. He's known for his profound influence on future artists, despite his short life and limited discography. His legendary prowess as a guitarist and songwriter is displayed in "Hellhound on My Trail."
Song Inspiration
Johnson's "Hellhound on My Trail" is believed to have been inspired by earlier songs and traditional folklore. Some speculate that hellhounds are a metaphor for guilt, depression, or other personal demons.
Song Title
The title of the song refers to an old Southern expression used to describe being pursued by bad luck or trouble. This metaphorical 'hellhound' is interpreted as a symbol of constant suffering and haunting past.
Recording History
"Hellhound on My Trail" was recorded on 20th November 1936 during Johnson’s first recording session in San Antonio, Texas. Only one take was made, like all of his recordings.
Lyrics Reference
The lyrics of the song are quite significant. They mirror Robert Johnson's mysterious life, hardship, and nomadic nature. It's often theorized that the lyrics describe Johnson's very real feelings of being pursued by evil or misfortune.
Influence on Rock and Roll
The song has had a profound influence on rock and roll music. Many famous musicians including Eric Clapton and Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant have cited Johnson's "Hellhound on My Trail" as a significant influence on their music.
Recognitions and Awards
In 1986, the song received the Grammy Hall of Fame Award, and it is included in the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress, indicating its significance on the national cultural and historical level.
Versions and Covers
Several other blues and rock artists, including Cream, Fleetwood Mac, and Rory Gallagher, have recorded their own versions of "Hellhound on My Trail".
Song Structure
The song uses an unconventional, complex slide guitar melody along with the haunting vocals of Johnson. Its structure is based on a 19-bar blues progression that sharply contrasts the standard 12-bar blues.

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