About the Song
Now, settle in for a taste of some genuine electric blues with a song that’s become a legend: Howlin’ Wolf’s “Smokestack Lightnin'”. Released back in 1956, this wasn’t just a hit for Wolf, it was a turning point for the genre itself. You see, Wolf wasn’t your typical bluesman. Hailing from Mississippi, he brought a powerful, raw sound to Chicago’s Chess Records, a sound that would influence countless rock and roll bands to come.
“Smokestack Lightnin'” is a prime example of Wolf’s signature style. It’s a hypnotic, one-chord groove, powered by a driving rhythm section and Wolf’s own electrifying vocals. He wasn’t afraid to unleash his signature howl, a sound that could shake the rafters and send shivers down your spine. But Wolf wasn’t just about power. Listen closely, and you’ll hear the ache and longing in his voice, the everyday struggles of a man facing a hard life.
The song’s lyrics are simple yet evocative. “Smokestack Lightnin'” refers to the sparks shooting out of a train’s smokestack at night, a mesmerizing sight that Wolf uses as a metaphor for his troubles. He sings about a woman who’s done him wrong, about feeling trapped and down on his luck. But there’s also a sense of resilience in there, a refusal to give up.
This song is more than just a blues tune; it’s a piece of musical history. It helped bridge the gap between the Delta blues of the past and the electrified rock and roll of the future. So, put on your dancing shoes, or just sit back and let the music wash over you. Howlin’ Wolf’s “Smokestack Lightnin'” is a ride you won’t want to miss.