About the song
“Mannish Boy” by Muddy Waters is a song that embodies the spirit of the blues, a genre that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Released in 1955, this classic track was written by Muddy Waters, along with Mel London and Ellas McDaniel (better known as Bo Diddley). It stands as one of Muddy Waters’ signature songs, a testament to his influence on the Chicago blues scene.
Muddy Waters, born McKinley Morganfield, was a pioneer of the blues genre. His journey from the cotton fields of Mississippi to the urban landscape of Chicago’s South Side is a quintessential American story of struggle, perseverance, and triumph. “Mannish Boy” is more than just a song; it is a declaration of identity and strength. The track’s raw, powerful sound is driven by Waters’ commanding voice and the repetitive, hypnotic guitar riff that forms its backbone.
Originally recorded as a response to Bo Diddley’s “I’m a Man,” “Mannish Boy” has a call-and-response structure that is both simple and profoundly effective. It captures the essence of the blues, with lyrics that speak to themes of manhood and self-assurance. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the decades, attesting to its enduring appeal and influence.
“Mannish Boy” was featured on Muddy Waters’ album “Hard Again,” released in 1977, produced by Johnny Winter. The album marked a significant comeback for Waters, rejuvenating his career and introducing his music to a new generation. “Hard Again” received critical acclaim and is often considered one of the best blues albums of all time.
Over the years, “Mannish Boy” has appeared in various films, commercials, and TV shows, cementing its place in popular culture. The song’s relentless groove and Waters’ powerful delivery continue to captivate listeners, making it a timeless classic in the blues canon. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Muddy Waters or discovering his music for the first time, “Mannish Boy” offers a powerful glimpse into the heart and soul of the blues.
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Lyrics
Oh, yeah
Oh, yeah
Everything gonna be alright this mornin’
Now, when I was a young boy
At the age of five
My mother said I was gonna be
The greatest man alive
But now I’m a man
I’m age twenty-one
I want you to believe me, honey
We having lots of fun
I’m a man (yeah)
I spell M
A, child
N
That represent man
No B
O, child
Y
That spell mannish boy
I’m a man
I’m a full-grown man
I’m a man
I’m a rollin’ stone
I’m a man
I’m a hoochie-coochie man
Sittin’ on the outside
Just me and my mate
I’m made to move
Come up two hours late
Wasn’t that a man?
I spell M
A, child
N
That represesnt man
No B
O, child
Y
That spell mannish boy
I’m a man
I’m a full-grown man
I’m a man
I’m a rolllin’ stone
I’m a man
Full-grown man
Oh, well
Oh, well