About the song
Lloyd Price‘s iconic hit, “Lawdy Miss Clawdy”, is a significant milestone in the history of rock and roll, rhythm and blues. Released in 1952, this track became a defining moment not only in Lloyd Price’s career but also in the evolution of popular music.
“Lawdy Miss Clawdy” was originally released as a single under Specialty Records and became a massive success, topping the R&B charts and selling over a million copies. The song was later included in various compilations, reflecting its lasting impact on the music industry. The track’s upbeat rhythm, catchy melody, and soulful vocals made it an instant hit, capturing the essence of the early 1950s music scene.
The song’s lyrics revolve around a young man’s heartache over a woman who doesn’t return his affection, a common theme in the blues genre. However, what set this song apart was its crossover appeal. “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” resonated with both black and white audiences at a time when music was still heavily segregated. This helped to bridge cultural divides and played a role in the integration of American music.
Lloyd Price‘s powerful delivery and the energetic piano riff by the legendary Fats Domino were key elements that contributed to the song’s success. The collaboration between Price and Domino was a perfect blend of Price’s raw vocal talent and Domino’s distinctive New Orleans-style piano, creating a sound that was both fresh and timeless.
Socially, the song was a trailblazer, marking one of the first instances where a black artist achieved widespread success across racial lines in the United States. This not only elevated Lloyd Price‘s status in the music industry but also paved the way for future African American artists to break into mainstream music.
The influence of “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” can be seen in the way it inspired countless other musicians and artists. It has been covered by a wide range of performers, including Elvis Presley and Paul McCartney, showcasing its enduring appeal across generations.
In summary, Lloyd Price’s “Lawdy Miss Clawdy” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural artifact that played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of modern music. Its release in 1952 marked the beginning of a new era, where music began to transcend racial barriers, setting the stage for the rock and roll explosion that would soon follow.
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Lyrics
Well lawdy, lawdy, lawdy miss clawdy
Girl you sure look good to me
But please don’t excite me baby
I know it can’t be meWell as a girl you want my money
Yeah but you just won’t treat me right
You like to ball every morning
Don’t come home till late at nightOh gonna tell, tell my mama
Lord, I swear girl what you been to me
I’m gonna tell everybody that I’m down in miserySo bye, bye, bye, baby
Girl, I won’t be comin’ no more
Goodbye little darlin’ down the road I’ll go
So, bye, bye, bye baby
Girl, I won’t be comin’ no more
Goodbye little darlin’ down the road I’ll go