Blues Influence on 1960s Rock Bands: The Evolution of 'Good Morning Little Schoolgirl
Blues music had a significant impact on bands in the 1960s, with artists like The Yardbirds and the Grateful Dead drawing inspiration from classic blues performers. The influence of blues artists like Robert Johnson and Howlin’ Wolf was felt by rock bands like Eric Clapton and The Rolling Stones, who introduced these blues standards to new audiences. Blues rock emerged as a prominent genre by the end of the 1960s, bridging the gap between Black music and white audiences.
The song 'Good Morning Little School Girl' underwent a transformation from a blues rarity to a rock standard, with some confusion surrounding its origins. The original version was credited to Sonny Boy Williamson I, but there were two artists with that name. Sonny Boy Williamson II, also known as Alex ‘Rice’ Miller, adopted the name and achieved success in the post-war music era. The Yardbirds, who toured with Sonny Boy Williamson II, incorporated songs from both Williamsons into their repertoire.
When The Yardbirds recorded 'Good Morning Little Schoolgirl', they based their version on a cover by Don and Bob rather than Sonny Boy Williamson I's original recording. Eric Clapton, a member of The Yardbirds, expressed dissatisfaction with their early material but felt a connection to 'Good Morning Little Schoolgirl'. The Grateful Dead also included the song in their repertoire, showcasing Pigpen’s harmonica skills and giving it a unique interpretation.
The Grateful Dead's version of 'Good Morning Little Schoolgirl' appeared on their 1967 debut album and became a staple in their live performances. Pigpen's passion for American blues influenced the band's rendition of the song. After Pigpen's passing, the Dead revisited the song with Bob Weir on vocals. Both The Yardbirds and the Grateful Dead brought their own interpretations to 'Good Morning Little Schoolgirl', showcasing the enduring influence of blues music on rock bands.