Messin' with the Kid

Muddy Waters, Nick Gravenites, Junior Wells

About Messin' with the Kid

"Messin' with the Kid" is a rhythm and blues-influenced blues song originally recorded by Junior Wells in 1960. Chief Records owner/songwriter/producer Mel London is credited as the songwriter. Considered a blues standard, it is Junior Wells's best-known song. "Messin' with the Kid" was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame and has been recorded by a variety of blues and other artists.


3:48

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 What's this a-here goin all around town
The people they say they're gonna put the kid down
Oh no
Oh look at what you did
You can call it what you want to
I call it messin' with the kid
You know the kid's no child and I don't play
I says what I mean and I mean what I say
Oh yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah
Oh look at what you did
You can call it what you want to
I call it messin' with the kid

You know the kid's no child and I don't play
I says what I mean and I mean what I say
Oh yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah
Oh look at what you did
You can call it what you want to
I call it messin' with the kid

We're gonna take the kid's car and drive around town
Tell everybody you're not puttin' him down
Oh yeah yeah yeah yeah
Oh look at what you did
You can call it what you want to
I call it messin' with the... yeah
One more now 

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Junior Wells

Junior Wells (December 9, 1934 – January 15, 1998), born Amos Wells Blakemore Jr., was an American Chicago blues vocalist, harmonica player, and recording artist. Wells, who was best known for his performances and recordings with Muddy Waters, Earl Hooker, and Buddy Guy, also performed with Bonnie Raitt, The Rolling Stones, and Van Morrison. more »

1 fan

Written by: MEL LONDON

Lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Historical Context
"Messin' with the Kid" is one of Junior Wells' most popular songs. It was originally released by Chief Records in 1960.
Song Writer
The song was written by Mel London, an influential American songwriter and record producer who founded Chief Records.
Chart Performance
"Messin' with the Kid" reached No. 15 on the Billboard R&B chart in 1960, establishing Wells as an upcoming young blues artist.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by a number of other artists, including the Blues Brothers, Rory Gallagher, and Johnny Winter, highlighting its influence on blues and rock music.
Lyrics
The lyrics of the song tell a story of defiance and resistance against someone trying to oppress and control the singer, which can be seen as an imbedded social commentary relevant to Wells' personal experiences.
Musical Composition
"Messin' with the Kid" is a prime example of Chicago Blues style, characterized by its gritty lyrics, soulful harmonica playing, and heavy emphasis on rhythm and groove.
Live Performances
One of the most famous performances of the song was at the 1966 American Folk Blues Festival, where Wells delivered a particularly electrifying rendition.
Harmonica Playing
Junior Wells is known for his exceptional harmonica playing skills. His performance on "Messin' with the Kid" is often hailed as one of his best and has become a standard for aspiring harmonica blues players.
Recordings
Despite its initial release in 1960, the song was re-recorded several times throughout Wells' career in different albums, each time imbuing it with a slightly distinct flavor.
Legacy
"Messin' with the Kid" continues to be a favorite among blues fans and musicians alike, standing as a testament to Junior Wells' enduring impact on the genre.

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