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Rolling Stones songs: Mannish Boy (live)
The line I shoot/ Will never miss/ And when I make love to you baby/ You just can’t resist
*By Marcelo Sonaglioni Long live to the blues! Mannish Boy stands as one of the many blues classics that the Rolling Stones embraced, paying homage to one of their greatest influences, Muddy Waters. The song is largely a faithful adaptation of Bo Diddley’s I’m a Man, which explains why Diddley (Ellas McDaniel) is credited as a composer. However, the track also incorporates elements from Willie Dixon’s Hoochie Coochie Man, showcasing a blend of inspirations from blues legends. Another name tied to the credits is Mel London, a renowned blues composer and producer, although his involvement in this case has been questioned. Later on iy was used by George Thorogood on his song Bad To The Bone.
Muddy Waters first recorded Mannish Boy on May 24, 1955, at Chess Studios in Chicago. The session featured a stellar lineup, including Jimmy Rogers on guitar, Junior Wells on harmonica (standing in for the usual harmonica player, Little Walter), Fred Below on drums, and an unidentified backing vocalist. This iconic recording remains a cornerstone of blues history.
Muddy’s Mannish Boy single was released in June 1955, with Young Fashioned Ways as its B-side. It quickly climbed the Billboard R&B charts, securing an impressive fifth place, further cementing Muddy Waters’ status as a blues legend. The song tells the story of a young boy who has matured into a confident twenty-one-year-old, ready to embrace life and love. Its bold and self-assured theme resonates deeply, capturing a universal experience of coming of age.
This narrative of youthful transformation and readiness for romance was likely a sentiment that struck a chord with Mick Jagger, whose own dynamic stage presence and charismatic persona embodied a similar sense of confidence and charm. With its infectious rhythm and assertive lyrics, Mannish Boy became more than just a song; it was a declaration of self-assurance that connected with audiences across generations.
The Rolling Stones delivered an electrifying performance of Mannish Boy during their legendary 1977 secret shows at the El Mocambo club in Toronto. These intimate gigs, held in a small venue rather than the massive arenas the band was accustomed to, allowed the Stones to reconnect with their blues roots in a raw and powerful way. Their rendition of the song captured the essence of their deep respect for blues music.
The live performance featured Mick Jagger’s gritty vocals and dynamic stage presence, paired with Keith Richards’ and Ron Wood’s searing guitar work. The energy of the Stones, combined with the intimate atmosphere of the El Mocambo, made this version of Mannish Boy a standout moment in their career. The recording of this performance was later included on Love You Live, giving fans worldwide a taste of the Stones’ mastery of the blues.
