Howlin’ Wolf is one of the most influential blues musicians of all time. Born in Mississippi in 1910, he began his career as a radio DJ before becoming a full-time musician in the 1940s. Over the course of his career, Howlin’ Wolf recorded numerous classic blues songs that have become essential listening for fans of the genre. His powerful vocals and intense instrumentation have inspired countless musicians over the years, and his legacy continues to be felt in the blues and rock scenes today. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Howlin’ Wolf songs of all time. From the raw emotion of “How Many More Years” to the driving rhythm of “Killing Floor,” these songs showcase the full range of Howlin’ Wolf’s talents and cement his place in the pantheon of great blues musicians. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the genre, these songs are essential listening for anyone interested in the rich history of the blues.
1. Moanin’ at Midnight
“Moanin’ at Midnight” by Howlin’ Wolf is a classic blues song that captures the raw, emotional power of the genre. The song opens with a simple guitar riff and Wolf’s deep, gravelly voice crooning the haunting lyrics. As the song progresses, it builds in intensity with the addition of drums, bass, and harmonica, creating a sense of urgency and desperation.
The lyrics of “Moanin’ at Midnight” speak to the pain and heartache that comes with lost love. Wolf sings about his longing for his lost love, “I’m moaning all night long, like a little puppy dog.” His voice conveys the deep sense of sadness and longing that comes with such heartbreak, while the music adds a layer of intensity and raw emotion.
Overall, “Moanin’ at Midnight” is a powerful example of the blues genre, showcasing both the emotional depth of the lyrics and the musical skill of Howlin’ Wolf and his band.
2. Wang-Dang-Doodle
“Wang-Dang-Doodle” by Howlin’ Wolf is a high-energy blues song that is all about having a good time. The song opens with a driving guitar riff and Wolf’s distinctive howl, setting the tone for the upbeat and lively tune. As the song progresses, it adds in drums, bass, and harmonica, creating a full and dynamic sound.
The lyrics of “Wang-Dang-Doodle” are all about partying and having fun. Wolf sings about “telling all the world, gonna party tonight,” and encourages his listeners to “shake it, shake it baby.” The song is full of playful energy and exuberance, making it a favorite for dancing and letting loose.
Overall, “Wang-Dang-Doodle” is a classic blues song that captures the joy and excitement of letting loose and having a good time. It’s a perfect example of Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to balance the emotional depth of the blues with the lively energy of a good party.
3. Do the Do
“Do the Do” by Howlin’ Wolf is a classic blues track that showcases Wolf’s signature gritty vocals and raw energy. The song opens with a driving bassline and guitar riff, which sets the tone for the upbeat and danceable tune. As the song progresses, Wolf’s vocals come in, urging listeners to “do the do” and move their bodies to the rhythm.
The lyrics of “Do the Do” are simple but effective, with Wolf encouraging his audience to let go of their worries and enjoy the moment. The song is full of infectious energy, making it a favorite for dancing and getting lost in the music.
Overall, “Do the Do” is a fun and lively blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to infuse his music with a sense of joy and exuberance.
4. Shake for Me
“Shake for Me” is a classic blues song by Howlin’ Wolf that features Wolf’s signature growling vocals and powerful instrumentation. The song opens with a slow, steady beat and Wolf’s deep, commanding voice, setting the tone for the sultry and seductive tune. As the song progresses, the music builds in intensity, with a driving guitar solo and powerful drumming.
The lyrics of “Shake for Me” speak to the primal nature of desire and attraction, with Wolf urging his lover to “shake it for me, girl” and let him know that she wants him too. The song is full of passion and intensity, making it a classic example of the blues genre.
Overall, “Shake for Me” is a powerful and seductive blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to capture the raw emotions of desire and longing.
5. Forty-Four
“Forty-Four” is a classic blues song by Howlin’ Wolf that features Wolf’s powerful vocals and a driving guitar riff. The song opens with a catchy guitar riff and Wolf’s deep, commanding voice, setting the tone for the gritty and intense tune. As the song progresses, the music builds in intensity, with a powerful harmonica solo and driving rhythm section.
The lyrics of “Forty-Four” speak to the power dynamics of relationships, with Wolf asserting his dominance and control over his lover. The song is full of passion and intensity, with Wolf’s vocals conveying a sense of raw emotion and power.
Overall, “Forty-Four” is a classic blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to capture the complex emotions and power dynamics of human relationships. The song is a powerful example of the blues genre, showcasing the raw emotion and musical skill that make Howlin’ Wolf a legendary figure in music history.
6. How Many More Years
“How Many More Years” by Howlin’ Wolf is a classic blues song that showcases Wolf’s powerful vocals and distinctive style. The song opens with a driving guitar riff and Wolf’s deep, growling voice, setting the tone for the gritty and intense tune. As the song progresses, the music builds in intensity, with a powerful harmonica solo and driving rhythm section.
The lyrics of “How Many More Years” speak to the pain and heartache that comes with lost love, with Wolf singing about his longing for his lost lover and asking “how many more years do I have to let you dog me around?” The song is full of emotion and intensity, with Wolf’s vocals conveying a sense of raw emotion and vulnerability.
Overall, “How Many More Years” is a classic blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to capture the complex emotions of human relationships. The song is a powerful example of the blues genre, showcasing the raw emotion and musical skill that make Howlin’ Wolf a legendary figure in music history.
7. Killing Floor
“Killing Floor” by Howlin’ Wolf is a high-energy blues song that showcases Wolf’s powerful vocals and driving instrumentation. The song opens with a catchy guitar riff and Wolf’s deep, growling voice, setting the tone for the intense and gritty tune. As the song progresses, the music builds in intensity, with a driving rhythm section and powerful guitar solos.
The lyrics of “Killing Floor” speak to the pain and frustration that comes with a difficult life, with Wolf singing about the struggles of working on the “killing floor” of a slaughterhouse. The song is full of emotion and intensity, with Wolf’s vocals conveying a sense of raw power and anger.
Overall, “Killing Floor” is a classic blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to infuse his music with a sense of urgency and intensity. The song is a perfect example of the blues genre, with its raw emotion and powerful instrumentation.
8. The Red Rooster
“The Red Rooster” is a classic blues song by Howlin’ Wolf that features Wolf’s signature growling vocals and powerful instrumentation. The song opens with a driving guitar riff and Wolf’s commanding voice, setting the tone for the sultry and seductive tune. As the song progresses, the music builds in intensity, with a driving rhythm section and powerful guitar solos.
The lyrics of “The Red Rooster” speak to the primal nature of desire and attraction, with Wolf singing about his lover being the “red rooster” who satisfies his desires. The song is full of passion and intensity, with Wolf’s vocals conveying a sense of raw emotion and power.
Overall, “The Red Rooster” is a classic blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to capture the raw emotions of desire and longing. The song is a perfect example of the blues genre, with its gritty vocals and powerful instrumentation.
9. Spoonful
“Spoonful” is a classic blues song by Howlin’ Wolf that showcases his deep, growling vocals and powerful instrumentation. The song opens with a driving bass line and Wolf’s commanding voice, setting the tone for the intense and gritty tune. As the song progresses, the music builds in intensity, with a driving rhythm section and powerful guitar solos.
The lyrics of “Spoonful” speak to the power of addiction, with Wolf singing about the “spoonful” of various substances that he needs to satisfy his cravings. The song is full of raw emotion and intensity, with Wolf’s vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and desperation.
Overall, “Spoonful” is a classic blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to capture the pain and struggles of addiction. The song is a perfect example of the blues genre, with its raw emotion and powerful instrumentation.
10. Smokestack Lightning
“Smokestack Lightning” is a high-energy blues song by Howlin’ Wolf that features his deep, growling vocals and driving instrumentation. The song opens with a catchy guitar riff and Wolf’s commanding voice, setting the tone for the intense and gritty tune. As the song progresses, the music builds in intensity, with a driving rhythm section and powerful harmonica solos.
The lyrics of “Smokestack Lightning” speak to the power of sexual attraction, with Wolf singing about his lover’s seductive powers and the effect she has on him. The song is full of raw passion and intensity, with Wolf’s vocals conveying a sense of primal desire.
Overall, “Smokestack Lightning” is a classic blues track that showcases Howlin’ Wolf’s ability to infuse his music with a sense of urgency and intensity. The song is a perfect example of the blues genre, with its raw emotion and powerful instrumentation.
Samuel Moore 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.
