Little Feat is an American rock band that emerged from the Southern California music scene in the late 1960s. Founded by Lowell George, Little Feat blended elements of blues, rock, funk, and country music to create a unique sound that would influence countless musicians in the years to come.
Despite their critical acclaim and passionate fan base, Little Feat’s success was not immediate. The band struggled to find their footing in the early years, and their first two albums failed to generate much commercial success. However, the release of their third album, “Dixie Chicken,” in 1973 marked a turning point for the band.
With its catchy hooks, intricate guitar work, and rich vocal harmonies, “Dixie Chicken” established Little Feat as a major force in the world of rock music. The album spawned several hit songs, including the title track and “Fat Man in the Bathtub,” and received widespread critical acclaim.
Throughout their career, Little Feat continued to push the boundaries of rock music, incorporating diverse musical influences and experimenting with new sounds and styles. Although the band has undergone several personnel changes over the years, their commitment to musical innovation and artistic integrity has remained constant.
In this article, we will explore the best music of Little Feat, from their early days as a struggling band to their status as a revered icon of American rock music. We will examine their unique sound, their groundbreaking approach to songwriting, and the lasting impact that they have had on the world of music.
1. Dixie Chicken
“Dixie Chicken” is a classic rock song by Little Feat, released in 1973 as the title track of their third studio album. The song features a catchy, bluesy guitar riff and a driving beat, along with the band’s trademark tight vocal harmonies.
The lyrics tell the story of a chance encounter with a woman named Julie who takes the narrator on a wild adventure, introducing him to the music and culture of New Orleans. The Dixie Chicken itself is a fictional bar where the band and Julie hang out and dance the night away.
The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious groove make it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio. “Dixie Chicken” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and its influence can be heard in the work of many other musicians.
The song is also notable for its use of the term “Dixie Chicken,” which has become a slang term for a certain type of Southern belle. With its combination of catchy hooks and colorful storytelling, “Dixie Chicken” remains a beloved classic of the rock genre, and a testament to Little Feat’s enduring legacy.
2. Willin’
“Willin'” is a country-rock song by Little Feat, first released on their eponymous debut album in 1971. Written by lead singer and guitarist Lowell George, the song has become one of the band’s most beloved and enduring hits.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a truck driver who is willing to go anywhere and do anything to make a living, including running drugs across state lines. Despite the potentially dangerous nature of his job, the narrator remains determined and unflappable, singing, “I’ve been from Tucson to Tucumcari, Tehachapi to Tonopah” in the chorus.
Musically, “Willin'” features George’s distinctive slide guitar work and a mellow, laid-back feel that perfectly captures the song’s themes of resilience and determination. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years, including Linda Ronstadt and The Black Crowes, and has become a staple of classic rock radio.
With its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, “Willin'” remains a beloved classic of the country-rock genre and a testament to Little Feat’s unique sound and enduring influence.
3. Fat Man in the Bathtub
“Fat Man in the Bathtub” is a bluesy rock song by Little Feat, released in 1973 on their album “Dixie Chicken”. The song features a gritty guitar riff and a grooving bass line, along with the band’s signature tight vocal harmonies.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is down on his luck and seeking refuge from his problems in a bathtub full of water. Despite his troubles, the narrator remains defiant and determined, singing, “I don’t worry about a thing, ’cause I know nothing’s gonna be alright.”
Musically, “Fat Man in the Bathtub” is a showcase for Little Feat’s distinctive blend of blues, rock, and funk. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy melody make it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
With its raw energy and powerful lyrics, “Fat Man in the Bathtub” remains one of Little Feat’s most enduring and beloved songs. The song’s message of resilience and determination in the face of adversity continues to resonate with fans around the world.
4. Rock and Roll Doctor
“Rock and Roll Doctor” is a high-energy rock song by Little Feat, released on their 1974 album “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now”. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat, along with the band’s signature tight vocal harmonies.
The lyrics tell the story of a “doctor” who prescribes rock and roll as the cure for all of life’s problems. The narrator sings about the transformative power of music, declaring, “Rock and roll, I give my soul, the rhythm’s in my heart and my soul.”
Musically, “Rock and Roll Doctor” is a showcase for Little Feat’s virtuosic musicianship and their ability to fuse elements of rock, blues, and funk into a cohesive sound. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious groove make it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
With its exuberant energy and uplifting message, “Rock and Roll Doctor” remains a beloved classic of the rock genre and a testament to Little Feat’s enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands of their time.
5. Time Loves a Hero
“Time Loves a Hero” is a classic rock song by Little Feat, released in 1977 on their album of the same name. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat, along with the band’s trademark tight vocal harmonies.
The lyrics reflect on the passing of time and the inevitability of change, as the narrator muses, “Time loves a hero, but only time will tell, if he’s real, he’s a legend from heaven, if he ain’t he was sent from hell.”
Musically, “Time Loves a Hero” showcases Little Feat’s ability to blend elements of rock, jazz, and funk into a unique and eclectic sound. The song’s complex arrangements and intricate instrumentation make it a standout track on the album.
With its thoughtful lyrics and dynamic musicality, “Time Loves a Hero” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Little Feat’s enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1970s.
6. Spanish Moon
“Spanish Moon” is a funky blues-rock song by Little Feat, released on their 1974 album “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now”. The song features a driving rhythm and a catchy guitar riff, along with the band’s signature tight vocal harmonies.
The lyrics tell the story of a woman who seduces the narrator with her mysterious allure, singing, “Spanish moon, rising on the hill, I know the secrets you keep, Spanish moon.”
Musically, “Spanish Moon” showcases Little Feat’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of rock, blues, and funk into a cohesive and unique sound. The song’s infectious groove and playful lyrics make it a fan favorite and a highlight of the band’s live shows.
With its sultry energy and irresistible rhythm, “Spanish Moon” remains one of Little Feat’s most enduring and beloved songs, and a testament to their pioneering role in the development of the blues-rock genre.
7. Sailing Shoes
“Sailing Shoes” is a lively and upbeat song by Little Feat, released on their eponymous debut album in 1971. The song features a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat, along with the band’s trademark tight vocal harmonies.
The lyrics tell the story of a man on the run who dreams of escaping to the sea, singing, “I got my sailing shoes on, you know I’m ready to sail, oh, sail away.”
Musically, “Sailing Shoes” showcases Little Feat’s eclectic blend of rock, blues, and country influences. The song’s rollicking rhythm and infectious melody make it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
With its upbeat energy and sense of wanderlust, “Sailing Shoes” remains one of Little Feat’s most beloved songs, and a testament to their enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1970s.
8. Long Distance Love
“Long Distance Love” is a soulful ballad by Little Feat, released on their 1974 album “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now”. The song features a hauntingly beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, along with the band’s trademark tight vocal harmonies.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is separated from his lover by distance, singing, “Long distance love, is what I’m feeling, I miss you darling, more than words can say.”
Musically, “Long Distance Love” showcases Little Feat’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of rock, blues, and soul into a beautiful and emotional sound. The song’s tender melody and poignant lyrics make it a fan favorite and a highlight of the album.
With its heartfelt sentiment and beautiful instrumentation, “Long Distance Love” remains one of Little Feat’s most enduring and beloved songs, and a testament to their ability to craft deeply moving and soulful music.
9. Oh, Atlanta
“Oh, Atlanta” is a classic rock song by Little Feat, originally released on their 1974 album “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now”. The song features a lively and upbeat rhythm, along with the band’s trademark tight vocal harmonies and catchy guitar riffs.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is drawn to the city of Atlanta, singing, “Oh, Atlanta, I hear you calling, I’m coming back to you one fine day.”
Musically, “Oh, Atlanta” showcases Little Feat’s ability to blend elements of rock, blues, and country into a cohesive and unique sound. The song’s infectious melody and driving rhythm make it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.
With its catchy hook and irresistible groove, “Oh, Atlanta” remains one of Little Feat’s most beloved and enduring songs, and a testament to their lasting impact on the rock and roll genre.
10. Strawberry Flats
“Strawberry Flats” is an instrumental track by Little Feat, released on their eponymous debut album in 1971. The song features a funky and upbeat rhythm, with a prominent guitar riff and a lively horn section.
Musically, “Strawberry Flats” showcases Little Feat’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of rock, blues, and jazz into a cohesive and unique sound. The song’s infectious groove and catchy melody make it a standout track on the album.
With its energetic instrumentation and playful vibe, “Strawberry Flats” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Little Feat’s innovative approach to music. The track also highlights the band’s impressive musicianship, with each member contributing to the song’s dynamic and engaging sound.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
