Monkey Around

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as we spin "Monkey Around" by Delbert McClinton from his 1997 album One of the Fortunate Few. This upbeat track, co-written by McClinton, Gary Nicholson, and Benmont Tench, is a rollicking blues-rock anthem that captures Delbert’s signature Texas swagger. Interestingly, the song was first released earlier in 1997 by Anson Funderburgh & Sam Myers, but McClinton’s version, with its infectious energy and gravelly vocals, made it a standout on the album. In a 2017 interview with Rolling Stone Country, McClinton shared that the song’s playful vibe was inspired by his love for the raw, fun spirit of early rock and roll, reflecting his lifelong passion for blending blues, country, and soul. The track’s lively rhythm and cheeky lyrics, like “Shoutin’ and screechin’, bouncin’ off the wall,” perfectly embody the roadhouse energy that Delbert’s known for, making it a favorite for fans who love to let loose.

Another tidbit about "Monkey Around" comes from its recording process. The album One of the Fortunate Few was a star-studded affair, featuring guest vocalists like Mavis Staples and Vince Gill, and was designed to mark McClinton’s comeback after a rocky period with Curb Records. In a 1997 review by Amazon, critic Geoffrey Himes noted the song’s “belt-it-out vocal” as a highlight, showcasing Delbert’s ability to infuse humor and heart into his performance. Fans on the Delbert McClinton Fan Club Facebook group often cite “Monkey Around” as a go-to track for live shows, where Delbert’s charisma and harmonica riffs turn it into a crowd-pleasing jam. The song’s been covered by artists like the Clintonics and Nick Schnebelen, proving its enduring appeal in the blues and Americana scenes.

Delbert McClinton’s journey to becoming the “Godfather of Americana Music” started in Lubbock, Texas, where he was born on November 4, 1940. Growing up in Fort Worth, he was drawn to music early on, sneaking peeks at live bands through the windows of the Cotton Club as a kid. By his teens, he was immersed in the local music scene, playing harmonica and singing in bar bands. In 1960, at just 19, he made history as the first white artist to have a record, his cover of “Wake Up Baby,” played on Fort Worth’s blues station KNOK. His big break came in 1962 when he played harmonica on Bruce Channel’s hit “Hey! Baby.” Touring England with Channel, Delbert famously gave harmonica tips to a young John Lennon, a story he’s recounted with a chuckle in interviews. Back in Texas, he fronted the Rondells and honed his craft in roadhouses, backing legends like Jimmy Reed and Muddy Waters, which shaped his raw, soulful style.

McClinton’s career took off in the 1970s with solo albums like Victim of Life’s Circumstances, and his songwriting caught the attention of artists like Emmylou Harris, who took his “Two More Bottles of Wine” to number one. Despite setbacks like label disputes and personal struggles, Delbert’s resilience shone through, earning him four Grammy Awards, including one for his 1992 duet with Bonnie Raitt, “Good Man, Good Woman.” His music, a blend of blues, country, and R&B, defies easy labels, which he once described in Alligator Records as simply “fun music.” Now, after over six decades in the game, he’s celebrated for his 2022 album Outdated Emotion and his annual Sandy Beaches Cruise, a fan favorite.

For more on Delbert, check out his official website for tour dates and news. Connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates and behind-the-scenes moments. Fans can join the Delbert McClinton Fan Club on Facebook to share stories and concert photos, or visit Alligator Records for a deep dive into his discography. Zoo Freaks, keep monkeying around with Delbert’s timeless tunes!