John Lee Hooker (1917-2001) was an iconic American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose distinctive sound left an indelible mark on the genre. Born in Mississippi, Hooker’s life and career spanned the better part of the 20th century, influencing generations of musicians with his raw, hypnotic style.
Known for his deep, gravelly voice and relentless boogie rhythms, Hooker’s music was a blend of Delta blues, rhythm and blues, and electric blues. His unconventional approach to the guitar, often employing a steady, hypnotic groove, created a signature sound that set him apart. Hooker’s lyrics, delivered with a captivating intensity, often explored themes of love, hardship, and the human condition.
Over a career that spanned more than six decades, John Lee Hooker released countless albums and singles, including timeless classics like “Boogie Chillen,” “Boom Boom,” and “I’m in the Mood.” His influence extended far beyond the blues genre, reaching into rock and roll and inspiring artists such as The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Carlos Santana.
A Grammy Award winner and recipient of numerous honors, John Lee Hooker’s legacy endures as a testament to the power of his music and its impact on the evolution of blues and rock.
1. I Don’t Want Your Money
“I Don’t Want Your Money” is one of John Lee Hooker’s most recognizable and enduring blues tracks. Released in 1961, the song captures the essence of Hooker’s distinctive style, featuring his deep, growling vocals and a minimalistic, rhythmic guitar arrangement.
The lyrics convey a sentiment of independence and self-sufficiency, with Hooker expressing a desire for love and companionship over material wealth. The repetitive and hypnotic nature of the music adds to the song’s allure, creating an irresistible groove that has resonated with audiences for decades.
“I Don’t Want Your Money” showcases Hooker’s ability to communicate powerful emotions through his music, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the timelessness of his sound. The track has been covered by various artists, further highlighting its influence and significance in the blues and rock genres.
Whether you’re a seasoned blues enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, “I Don’t Want Your Money” remains a compelling example of John Lee Hooker’s mastery in delivering soulful, authentic, and captivating blues music.
2. One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer
“One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” is a classic blues song that has been recorded by several artists over the years. The most well-known version is by John Lee Hooker, who first recorded the song in 1966. The song’s narrative style is a tale of a man facing personal troubles and seeking solace in the form of alcoholic beverages.
The protagonist recounts his woes, including losing his job and coming home to find an eviction notice. To cope with his problems, he orders “one bourbon, one scotch, one beer” at a bar. The repetition of the drink order serves as a rhythmic refrain throughout the song.
While John Lee Hooker’s version is widely recognized, the song has been covered by various artists, each adding their own interpretation. George Thorogood and the Destroyers released a popular rendition of the song titled “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” on their 1977 album “Move It on Over.” Thorogood’s version is notable for its energetic and blues-rock style.
The song’s enduring popularity lies in its relatable narrative, catchy refrain, and the raw blues sound that captures the essence of the genre. “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” has become a blues standard and is often celebrated for its storytelling and musical appeal.
3. Messin’ with the Hook
“**Messin’ with the Hook**” is a live album by blues guitarist and singer John Lee Hooker. The album was released in 1973 and features Hooker’s performance at the Newport Folk Festival. It captures the raw and authentic essence of Hooker’s blues style, showcasing his powerful guitar playing and soulful vocals.
Some of the tracks featured on “Messin’ with the Hook” include classic blues numbers like “Boom Boom,” “Crawlin’ King Snake,” and “Boogie Chillen.” The album highlights Hooker’s ability to captivate audiences with his solo blues performances, often featuring just his electric guitar and vocals.
John Lee Hooker’s influence on the blues genre is immeasurable, and live recordings like “Messin’ with the Hook” provide a glimpse into the energy and spontaneity of his performances. The album serves as a testament to Hooker’s enduring legacy as a pioneering figure in the world of blues music.
4. Chill Out (Things Gonna Change)
“Chill Out (Things Gonna Change)” is an album by legendary blues guitarist John Lee Hooker, released in 1995. The album features Hooker collaborating with various artists, including Carlos Santana, Van Morrison, and Bonnie Raitt, among others. It’s known for its eclectic mix of blues, rock, and jazz influences.
The title track, “Chill Out (Things Gonna Change),” is a collaboration between John Lee Hooker and Carlos Santana. The song has a laid-back bluesy feel with Santana’s signature guitar style complementing Hooker’s vocals. The lyrics convey a message of resilience and hope despite life’s challenges.
The album as a whole showcases the enduring appeal of John Lee Hooker’s music and his ability to connect with a diverse range of artists across different genres. “Chill Out (Things Gonna Change)” received critical acclaim for its musical diversity, the quality of collaborations, and Hooker’s continued mastery of the blues.
Released in the later years of Hooker’s extensive career, “Chill Out (Things Gonna Change)” stands as a testament to his influence on the blues genre and his ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to his roots.
5. Dimples
“Dimples” is a classic blues song written and originally recorded by John Lee Hooker. Released in 1956, the track has become one of Hooker’s most well-known and enduring compositions. The song’s title refers to a woman’s facial feature, and the lyrics are a playful and flirtatious exploration of romantic attraction.
“Dimples” is characterized by Hooker’s distinctive guitar playing and his deep, rhythmic vocals. The music features a primitive and infectious boogie-woogie rhythm, creating a groove that has made it a favorite among blues enthusiasts. The simplicity and repetition in the song’s structure contribute to its timeless appeal.
Over the years, “Dimples” has been covered by numerous artists, attesting to its enduring influence on the blues genre. Its raw and primal energy captures the essence of John Lee Hooker’s style, making it a standout example of his contributions to the world of blues and rock music.
Whether you’re drawn to its infectious beat, Hooker’s soulful vocals, or the playful lyrics, “Dimples” remains a cornerstone in the rich tapestry of blues history and stands as a testament to John Lee Hooker’s enduring impact on the world of music.
6. Blues Before Sunrise
“Blues Before Sunrise” is a classic blues song that has been recorded by various artists over the years. The most well-known version is by the legendary blues guitarist and singer John Lee Hooker. Hooker’s rendition of the song was released as a single in 1949.
The lyrics of “Blues Before Sunrise” reflect the themes commonly found in blues music, including heartache, loss, and the pain of unrequited love. The title suggests a melancholic mood, emphasizing the emotional depth of the song. The lyrics describe the narrator’s experience of being alone and feeling the blues even before the sunrise.
John Lee Hooker’s version of “Blues Before Sunrise” is characterized by his distinctive guitar playing style and raw, emotive vocals. His approach to the blues often featured a hypnotic and rhythmic guitar pattern that became a hallmark of his sound.
“Blues Before Sunrise” is considered a classic in the blues genre, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of Hooker’s music. The song has been covered by other artists, contributing to its status as a standard in the blues repertoire.
7. Crawling King Snake
“Crawling King Snake” is a blues song with deep roots, and one of the most well-known versions was recorded by John Lee Hooker. Originally written and recorded by Tony Hollins in 1941, Hooker’s rendition in 1949 became iconic and contributed to the song’s lasting popularity.
The lyrics of “Crawling King Snake” often depict themes of sensuality and desire, using metaphorical language related to a snake to evoke a sultry, hypnotic mood. Hooker’s deep, rhythmic guitar playing and his distinctive vocal delivery give the song a primal and evocative quality. The repetitive and mesmeric nature of the composition adds to its allure, creating a blues masterpiece that has influenced countless artists across various genres.
The song has been covered by numerous musicians, further solidifying its status as a blues standard. Notable renditions include versions by The Doors, whose interpretation brought a rock twist to the blues classic.
“Crawling King Snake” is a testament to John Lee Hooker’s ability to convey emotion and atmosphere through his music. Its enduring appeal lies in its captivating simplicity, raw authenticity, and the timeless allure of the blues.
8. I’m In The Mood
“I’m in the Mood” is a blues song that has been recorded by various artists, but it’s most commonly associated with the legendary blues musician John Lee Hooker. Hooker released the song in 1951 as a single, and it has become one of his signature tracks.
The lyrics of “I’m in the Mood” convey a sense of romantic desire and the narrator’s readiness for love. The repetition of the phrase “I’m in the mood” emphasizes the mood of anticipation and attraction. The song’s structure often features a call-and-response pattern between Hooker’s vocals and his guitar.
John Lee Hooker’s version of “I’m in the Mood” showcases his distinctive boogie-blues guitar style and his deep, expressive voice. The song’s simplicity, combined with Hooker’s emotive delivery, contributes to its timeless appeal.
“I’m in the Mood” has been covered by various artists over the years, reflecting its status as a classic blues standard. The song’s influence extends beyond its initial release, and it remains a celebrated example of John Lee Hooker’s contribution to the blues genre.
9. Boom Boom
“Boom Boom” is a classic blues song written and recorded by John Lee Hooker in 1961. It became one of his most well-known and enduring tracks, showcasing his signature style and contributing to his legendary status in the world of blues music.
“Boom Boom” features a distinctive and infectious guitar riff, coupled with Hooker’s deep, growling vocals. The song’s lyrics are both playful and suggestive, revolving around themes of love and desire. The repetitive nature of the riff, combined with Hooker’s commanding presence, gives the track an irresistible energy that has made it a staple in the blues genre.
The song’s popularity has endured over the years, and “Boom Boom” has been covered by numerous artists from various musical backgrounds. Its influence has extended beyond the blues, with renditions by rock and roll bands and artists attesting to its cross-genre appeal.
Whether you’re drawn to the catchy guitar riff, the memorable lyrics, or Hooker’s charismatic delivery, “Boom Boom” stands as a testament to John Lee Hooker’s impact on the blues and its enduring influence on the broader landscape of popular music.
10. Boogie Chillen’
“Boogie Chillen'” is a classic blues song written and recorded by the legendary blues guitarist and singer John Lee Hooker. The song is one of Hooker’s signature tracks and a significant milestone in the history of blues music. It was released in 1948 and became a major hit.
The song features Hooker’s distinctive boogie-woogie guitar style and rhythmic, hypnotic delivery. In “Boogie Chillen’,” Hooker recounts his experience of leaving home at a young age and finding solace in playing the boogie-woogie blues. The lyrics are characterized by a sense of freedom and celebration.
“Boogie Chillen'” played a crucial role in establishing John Lee Hooker’s career, and its success helped him gain recognition in the blues community. The song’s influence extended beyond its initial release, impacting the development of blues and rock music.
The simplicity and infectious groove of “Boogie Chillen'” have made it enduringly popular, and it remains a classic in the blues genre. The song’s distinctive guitar riff and Hooker’s raw vocal delivery have influenced countless musicians, making it a timeless piece in the blues canon.
Edward Tomlin 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.
