About the song
“Lookin’ out My Back Door” is a captivating and whimsical song recorded by the iconic American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). Penned by the band’s lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter John Fogerty, the track is a standout on their fifth studio album, *Cosmo’s Factory*, released in 1970. The song quickly climbed the charts, becoming CCR’s fifth and final number-two hit on the Billboard Hot 100, where it was held from the top spot by Diana Ross’s rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Remarkably, “Lookin’ out My Back Door” also became CCR’s only number-one hit on the Cash Box Top 100.
The lyrics of “Lookin’ out My Back Door” are infused with vivid and dream-like imagery, leading some listeners to speculate that the song was about drugs. According to this interpretation, references to a “flying spoon” and the parade of surreal animals suggested the influence of cocaine, heroin, or an acid trip. However, Fogerty has clarified in interviews that the song was written with his then three-year-old son, Josh, in mind. The playful and imaginative lyrics were intended to delight and entertain his young son. Furthermore, Fogerty has mentioned that the imagery of a parade passing by was inspired by the Dr. Seuss book *And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street*.
The song opens and closes with mentions of Illinois and a futile attempt to lock the front door to keep troubles at bay. This framing adds a touch of personal and geographical specificity to the otherwise fantastical narrative. Additionally, the song nods to country music with a mention of Buck Owens, a renowned country singer. In 1971, Buck Owens’ son, Buddy Alan, recorded a cover version of the song, further cementing its cross-genre appeal.
Critical reception of “Lookin’ out My Back Door” was overwhelmingly positive. *Cash Box* praised the song for emphasizing CCR’s “early-rock gut appeal” and described it as a “rough-hewn bit of dance material that should sparkle.” *Record World* dubbed it a “super-smash,” while *Billboard* highlighted its “clever rhythm.”
“Lookin’ out My Back Door” stands as a testament to John Fogerty’s songwriting prowess and Creedence Clearwater Revival’s ability to blend rock with elements of country and whimsy. Its enduring popularity is a reflection of its catchy melody, imaginative lyrics, and the band’s signature sound that has resonated with generations of listeners. This track not only showcases CCR’s musical versatility but also underscores Fogerty’s talent for creating songs that are both entertaining and meaningful.
Video
Lyrics
Just got home from Illinois, lock the front door, oh boy
Got to sit down, take a rest on the porch
Imagination sets in, pretty soon I’m singin’
Doot, doot, doo, lookin’ out my back door
There’s a giant doin’ cartwheels, a statue wearin’ high heels
Look at all the happy creatures dancin’ on the lawn
Dinosaur Victrola, listenin’ to Buck Owens
Doot, doot, doo, lookin’ out my back door
Tambourines and elephants are playin’ in the band
Won’t you take a ride on the flyin’ spoon? Doot, doo doo
Wondrous apparition, provided by magician
Doot, doot, doo, lookin’ out my back door
Tambourines and elephants are playin’ in the band
Won’t you take a ride on the flyin’ spoon? Doot, doo doo
Bother me tomorrow, today, I’ll buy no sorrows
Doot, doot, doo, lookin’ out my back door
Forward troubles Illinois, lock the front door, oh boy
Look at all the happy creatures dancin’ on the lawn
Bother me tomorrow, today, I’ll buy no sorrows
Doot, doot, doo, lookin’ out my back door