About the song
Grand Funk Railroad’s “Inside Looking Out” is a timeless classic that encapsulates the essence of rock ‘n’ roll from the late 1960s. Led by the powerful vocals of Mark Farner, this track showcases the band’s signature blend of hard-hitting guitar riffs, pulsating rhythms, and raw energy that made them one of the defining acts of their era.
Written by the trio of Eric Burdon, Chas Chandler, and Alan Lomax, “Inside Looking Out” was originally recorded by The Animals in 1966. However, Grand Funk Railroad’s rendition, released in 1969 as part of their album “Grand Funk,” propelled the song to even greater heights of success. It served as a testament to the band’s ability to infuse their own unique style into established classics, breathing new life into the music scene.
The song’s gritty lyrics and intense instrumentation perfectly capture the rebellious spirit of the late ’60s, resonating with listeners who were seeking an outlet for their frustrations and yearnings for change. It climbed the charts, reaching impressive positions on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, solidifying Grand Funk Railroad’s status as one of the era’s premier rock acts.
“Inside Looking Out” remains a staple of classic rock radio stations worldwide, continuing to captivate audiences with its infectious energy and timeless appeal. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring legacy of Grand Funk Railroad and their impact on the rock music landscape. So, buckle up and prepare to embark on a musical journey through the annals of rock history with Grand Funk Railroad’s electrifying rendition of “Inside Looking Out.”
Video
Lyrics
I’m sitting here lonely like a broken man
I serve my time doin’ the best I can
Walls and bars they surround me
But, I don’t want no sympathy
No baby, no baby
All I need is some tender lovin’
To keep me sane in this burning oven
And, when my time is up, you’ll be my reefer
Life gets worse on God’s green earth
Be my reefer, got to keep smokin’ that thing
No, no, no, no, no, no
No, no, no, no, no, no, no
I said now baby, baby let me smoke it smoke it
Makes me feel good feel good, yes, I feel good ah
Yes, I feel alright (feel alright) yes, I feel alright (I feel alright)
Yes, I feel alright ah
Oh
Ice cold water is runnin’ through my veins
They try and drag me back to work again
Pain and blisters on my mind and hands
I work all day making up burlap bags
The oats they’re feeding me are driving me wild
I feel unhappy like a new born child
Now, when my time is up, you wait and see
These walls and bars won’t keep that stuff from me
No, no, baby
Won’t keep that stuff from me
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no
No, no, no, no, no, no, no
I need you right now mama
I need you right now baby
Right by my side, honey
All night long
Make me feel alright
Yes, yes, yes
You better come on up and get down with me
I’ll make you feel real good, just you wait and see
Make me feel alright yes, I feel alright
Yes, yes, yes, alright