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Moanin’ in the Moonlight 1959
Album · by Howlin’ Wolf ↗ View artist

Moanin’ in the Moonlight

The album Moanin’ in the Moonlight, released in 1959, marks a key moment in the evolution of the blues, capturing the essence of Chicago’s electric sound. This work by Howlin' Wolf stands out for its raw energy and the emotional depth of its lyrics, which reflect his life and experiences. The production, completed in a short period, highlights the authenticity of the performances, with a focus on live recording that allows the power of his voice and his interaction with the musicians to shine through.

Year
1959
Songs
12
Duration
33 min 49 seg
Listen to the album

12 song|s

Song list

# Title Available
01

Moanin’ at Midnight

2:56
02

How Many More Years

2:43
03

Smokestack Lightnin’

3:08
04

Baby, How Long

2:55
05

No Place to Go

2:58
06

All Night Boogie

2:15
07

Evil

2:53
08

I’m Leavin’ You

3:01
09

Moanin’ for My Baby

2:51
10

I Asked for Water (She Gave Me Gasoline)

2:52
11

Forty‐Four

2:50
12

Somebody in My Home

2:27

About the album

Moanin’ in the Moonlight, according to DoReSol

Among the most notable tracks is Smokestack Lightnin’, which has become an anthem of the genre. This song, with its hypnotic riff and enveloping atmosphere, captures the essence of urban blues. Another standout track is How Many More Years, where anguish and desperation are conveyed through Wolf’s passionate performance. The lyrics of I Asked for Water (She Gave Me Gasoline) are a perfect example of his storytelling ability, using metaphors that evoke vivid images and raw emotions.

The album not only cemented Howlin' Wolf as a central figure in blues music but also influenced generations of later musicians. His ability to blend traditional blues with a more electric and contemporary sound set him apart at a time when the genre was undergoing a full transformation. Moanin’ in the Moonlight is, without a doubt, a testament to the talent and vision of an artist who left an indelible mark on music.