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Top 10 Blues Party Songs

From Blues Styles

Every Blues fan has their "go to" recordings. When there is an urgent need to raise the roof, these are the ten tunes that will blow up any party. Just add groovy people.

1. Wang Dang Doodle

Tell Automatic Slim, Tell razor-toting Jim...This is one of the ultimate party songs sung about some of the ultimate party people, period. The Blues classic was written and recorded by Willie Dixon it was also covered by, among many, Howlin' Wolf, Koko Taylor, Z.Z. Hill, Dr. John, and Eric Clapton. All night long...All night long...All night long...

2. Mannish Boy

I'm a may-en! Muddy Waters' shouted out the ultimate masculine proclamation with this classic. The repetitive guitar line can be played by even the most novice of guitar players. This to-the-bone simplicity strikes a nerve every time. ...I'm a rollin' stone.

3. Down Home Blues

Composed by George Jackson and made famous by Z.Z. Hill, this classic is covered by just about every Blues band in existence. Hill's infectious 6/8 groove hit nerves in music fans in the early 1980's and was on the charts for almost two years. ...Every other record or two.

4. Sweet Home Chicago

Robert Johnson is credited with the first version of this tune but Magic Sam has the definitive version. The signature guitar lick is probably the most recognizable instrumental line in the Blues, and when it kicks in the party will officially start.C'mon...Baby don't you want to go.

5. Baby, What You Want Me to Do

Jimmy Reed could swing, and if you want to have a Blues party, ya gotta swing. Good for a crowd of shy people who just can't bring themselves to ask this basic musical question.Goin'up...Goin' down...

6. Boogie Chillun

Every party has to boogie and John Lee Hooker's classic will instigate the most violent of boogie-age. This is not the tune you put on first, it is the tune you play at the apex of the party. Guaranteed to kick them all over the edge....Let the boy boogie.

7. Shout

Though the Isely brothers are not exactly a Blues act (which is why this isn't #1), they brought the spirit of the church to the Blues shindig and created one of the greatest party tunes ever. The movie Animal House contains the most remembered version with Otis Day and the Nights blowing up a frat house. Little bit louder now...Little bit louder now...

8. I'm Ready

Muddy Waters puts another one on the list with this nugget of Blues gold. Also covered by Albert King, among many, the song evokes the electricity needed in the air for a raging party. Watch as the dancers point to each other as Muddy shouts I'm ready for you...I hope you're ready for me.

9. Statesboro Blues

The Allman Brothers created Southern Rock by covering Blues masters like Georgia Blues icon Blind Willie McTell. Their cover of McTell's treasure brought millions to the Blues, and for good reason. The irresistible shuffle groove will always get people bouncing. ...Your sister Lucille said she wants to go.

10. Don't Cha Boogie With Your Black Drawers Off

Jeannie & Jimmy Cheatham wrote this as a sequel to their hit Meet Me with Your Black Drawers On but the second time out is pure party gold. Featuring Snooky Young on the smokin' sax solo, this tune will generate a guaranteed sing-along at the end. Don't cha boogie...Don't cha boogie...
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