About the song
“Smokestack Lightnin’,” performed by the legendary Howlin’ Wolf, is a quintessential blues classic that has left an indelible mark on the genre. Released as a single in 1956, this song showcases the raw, emotive power of Howlin’ Wolf’s voice and his unique ability to convey deep emotion through music. Written by Howlin’ Wolf himself, whose real name was Chester Arthur Burnett, “Smokestack Lightnin'” quickly became one of his signature songs and remains one of the most influential blues tracks of all time.
The song’s origins can be traced back to Wolf’s early experiences in the Mississippi Delta, where he drew inspiration from the sounds of trains and the rural landscape. “Smokestack Lightnin'” captures the essence of the blues with its haunting harmonica, driving rhythm, and Wolf’s gravelly, soulful vocals. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and restlessness, themes that are central to the blues tradition.
Howlin’ Wolf recorded “Smokestack Lightnin'” for Chess Records, a label renowned for its roster of seminal blues artists. The track was a commercial success, reaching No. 11 on the Billboard R&B chart. Its impact, however, extended far beyond its initial chart performance. The song became a staple in Wolf’s live performances and was a significant influence on the development of rock and roll, inspiring a generation of musicians including The Rolling Stones, The Yardbirds, and Led Zeppelin.
“Smokestack Lightnin'” is featured on Howlin’ Wolf’s self-titled album, often referred to as “The Rockin’ Chair Album” because of its iconic cover art. This album, released in 1962, is considered one of the greatest blues albums of all time and solidified Wolf’s status as a blues legend.
The enduring appeal of “Smokestack Lightnin'” lies in its raw emotional power and its embodiment of the quintessential blues experience. Wolf’s powerful delivery and the song’s evocative soundscape transport listeners to a time and place where the blues were not just music, but a way of life. For those who appreciate the depth and soul of the blues, “Smokestack Lightnin'” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
Video
Lyrics
Whoa, smokestack lightnin’
Shinin’ just like gold
Why don’t you hear me cryin’?
A-whoo-hoo, a-whoo-hoo, whoo
Whoa-oh, tell me, baby
What’s the matter here?
Why don’t you hear me cryin’?
Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo, whoo
Whoa-oh, tell me, baby
Where did you stay last night?
Why don’t you hear me cryin’?
Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo, whoo
Whoa-oh, stop your train
Let a poor boy ride
Why don’t you hear me cryin’?
Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo, whoo
Whoa-oh, fare-you-well
Never see a you no more
Why don’t you hear me cryin’?
Whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo, whoo
Whoa-oh, who been here baby since
I, I been gone a little bitty boy?
Girl, be on
A-whoo-hoo, whoo-hoo, whoo