About the song
“Inside-Looking Out”, also known as “Inside Looking Out”, is a compelling single released by The Animals in 1966 under Decca Records, marking their debut with the label. This song garnered moderate success, peaking at number 12 on the UK Singles Chart, number 23 in Canada, and number 34 on the U.S. pop singles chart. Notably, it was the band’s final release featuring drummer John Steel, who departed shortly after its launch, paving the way for Barry Jenkins to join Eric Burdon and the Animals.
The genesis of “Inside-Looking Out” draws from a traditional prison work chant titled “Rosie,” originally documented by musicologist Alan Lomax and featured in his collection, Popular Songbook. The Animals reimagined this source material with their distinctive touch, resulting in a credit to John and Alan Lomax alongside Eric Burdon and Chas Chandler for the band’s interpretation.
Critically, the single was praised for its raw, blues-infused energy. Cash Box characterized it as a “raunchy, pulsating blues-soaked plea in which a rejected fella begs his ex-girlfriend to return to him.” This description encapsulates the visceral appeal and emotional depth that resonated with listeners during its release.
Beyond its musical merits, “Inside-Looking Out” holds historical significance as a transitional piece for The Animals, marking the end of an era with John Steel’s departure and the beginning of a new chapter with Barry Jenkins behind the drum kit. The track’s fusion of traditional roots with contemporary rock elements underscores its enduring appeal and influence within the band’s repertoire.
In essence, “Inside-Looking Out” remains a testament to The Animals’ ability to reinterpret and invigorate classic themes, cementing its place not only in the band’s discography but also in the annals of rock and blues music history.
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