I’ve always loved music. Later in life I would make playlists on Cassette, CD’s and now on thumbdrives. With these posts I’ll reminisce about some of my all-time favorite songs.
“I Hear You Knocking” is a rhythm and blues song written by Dave Bartholomew and Pearl King. The song was first recorded by Smiley Lewis in 1955 and became a significant hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard R&B chart. The song’s driving piano riff, bluesy vocals, and catchy lyrics have made it a timeless classic.
The most famous version of “I Hear You Knocking” was recorded by Welsh rock and roll singer Dave Edmunds in 1970. Edmunds’ version diverged from the original, featuring a rockier, more upbeat arrangement with a prominent guitar riff. His rendition was a major hit, reaching number 1 on the UK Singles Chart in November 1970, where it stayed for six weeks.
It also reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, solidifying Edmunds’ international fame. Edmunds’ recording was notable for its use of production techniques that evoked the early rock and roll sound, despite being recorded in the 1970s. The track included multi-tracking and a phased vocal effect, which added to its distinctiveness.
Edmunds recorded the song at Rockfield Studios, near Monmouth in Monmouthshire, Wales. He played all the instruments except possibly the bass guitar.
This version of “I Hear You Knocking” has been featured in various films, commercials, and TV shows over the years, contributing to its enduring popularity. In addition to Smiley Lewis and Dave Edmunds, “I Hear You Knocking” has been covered by numerous artists across different genres.
Notable covers include those by Fats Domino, who brought a unique New Orleans flavor to the song, and Gale Storm, whose 1955 version was a crossover hit on both the pop and R&B charts. Other artists like Shakin’ Stevens, Bryan Adams, and Canned Heat have also recorded their versions, each bringing their own style to the classic tune.
The song’s legacy is also evident in its chart success across different versions and eras. Smiley Lewis’s original version charted on the R&B chart, while Gale Storm’s cover reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Dave Edmunds’ version, with its international success, became the definitive recording for many fans. Each version has contributed to the song’s enduring appeal and its status as a staple in the rock and roll and blues genres.
Written by Dave Bartholomew and Pearl King
You went away and left me long time ago
Now you're knocking on my door
I hear you knocking, but you can't come in
I hear you knocking, go back where you been
I begged you not to go but you said goodbye
And now you're telling me all your lies
I hear you knocking, but you can't come in
I hear you knocking, go back where you been, oh yeah
You better get back to your used-to-be
'Cause you're kinda love ain't good for me
I hear you knocking, but you can't come in
I hear you knocking, go back where you been
I told you way back in Fifty-two
That I would never go with you
I hear you knocking but you can't come in
I hear you knocking, go back where you been
Further Reading
Sources
- Px Pixels “Dave Edmunds” https://pixels.com/featured/2-dave-edmunds-music-legend-john-springfield.html
- Wikipedia “I Hear You Knocking” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Hear_You_Knocking
- Songfacts “I Hear You Knocking by Dave Edmunds” https://www.songfacts.com/lyrics/dave-edmunds/i-hear-you-knocking
- Discogs “i hear you knocking” https://www.discogs.com/search?q=+i+hear+you+knocking&type=all
- AllMusic “Dave Edmunds” https://www.allmusic.com/artist/dave-edmunds-mn0000584923#discography
