About the song
“Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is a memorable song by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival, recorded in 1970. Written by the band’s lead singer and guitarist, John Fogerty, this song is a standout track from their fifth album, *Cosmo’s Factory*. It became the band’s fifth single to hit number two on the Billboard Hot 100, narrowly missing the top spot due to Diana Ross’s popular version of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” It was also their only song to top the Cash Box Top 100 chart.
The song is known for its vibrant and whimsical lyrics, which paint a dreamlike picture that some listeners have speculated could be about drug experiences. For instance, the mention of a “flying spoon” and fantastical animal imagery led to theories about drug references. However, John Fogerty has clarified that the song was inspired by his young son, Josh, and that its imagery was influenced by the Dr. Seuss book *And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street*. The lyrics begin and end with references to Illinois, adding a personal touch as Fogerty reflects on his life and tries to lock away his troubles.
The song also pays homage to country music, mentioning country star Buck Owens, and was later covered by Buddy Alan, Owens’ son. Reviews from the time praised the song for its infectious rhythm and energetic feel. Cash Box described it as having a “rough-hewn bit of dance material that should sparkle,” while Record World called it a “super-smash” and Billboard noted its “clever rhythm.”
Overall, “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is celebrated for its catchy tune and playful lyrics, capturing the essence of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s unique sound and Fogerty’s songwriting talent.
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