Keep A-Knockin' (But You Can't Come In)

Album: Saxa-Woogie (1939)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Although the early rock 'n' roll track "Keep A-Knockin'" is usually credited to Little Richard, it is actually a lot older than that. The phrase "keep a-knockin'" dates to at least 1895 when an unrelated coon song with that title by Michael E. Rourke and Frank Pallma was published at Chicago.

    The song as recognized was recorded in 1939 by the bandleader Louis Jordan and also in the 1930s by Jimmy Dorsey And His Orchestra with teenage vocalist Helen O'Connell. The original has been credited to Perry Bradford; it was recorded as "Keep A Knockin' An You Can't Get In" on Paramount in February 1928 by Boodle It Wiggins.

    The most uptempo, dynamic and arguably best version was recorded by Mott The Hoople for the Wildlife album; this extended version is a medley, and is also included on Rock And Roll Queen. >>
    Suggestion credit:
    Alexander Baron - London, England

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Ian Astbury of The Cult

Ian Astbury of The CultSongwriter Interviews

The Cult frontman tells who the "Fire Woman" is, and talks about performing with the new version of The Doors.

JJ Burnel of The Stranglers

JJ Burnel of The StranglersSongwriter Interviews

JJ talks about The Stranglers' signature sound - keyboard and bass - which isn't your typical strain of punk rock.

Bible Lyrics

Bible LyricsMusic Quiz

Rockers, rappers and pop stars have been known to quote the Bible in their songs. See if you match the artist to the biblical lyric.

Protest Songs

Protest SongsMusic Quiz

How well do you know your protest songs (including the one that went to #1)?

Adele

AdeleFact or Fiction

Despite her reticent personality, Adele's life and music are filled with intrigue. See if you can spot the true tales.

Wedding Bell Blues

Wedding Bell BluesSong Writing

When a song describes a wedding, it's rarely something to celebrate - with one big exception.