“It was a story about a breakup I was going through, and that situation where it's gotten into your head too much. Partially because somebody else is telling you that you're only hearing what you want to, and that puts you in a little bit of a tailspin.” »read more
Songfacts: You can leave comments about the song at the bottom of the page.
This was originally recorded by Blues musician Slim Harpo, who was long a favorite of Mick Jagger. The Stones faithfully reproduced Harpo's version, even including all of his spoken asides. Mick Jagger didn't understand why listeners would choose the Stones version over Harpo's. He even stated in 1968, "I mean what's the point in listening to us do 'I'm A King Bee' when you can listen to Slim Harpo doing it?" (thanks, Joel - Chicago, IL)
Slim Harpo originally recorded this song in 1957. The Rolling Stones played it at their concerts in 1963-64 before recording it on their first album. (thanks, Bertrand - Paris, France)
Comments:
Jim Belushi does a great version on SNL too, dressed as a bee...it's a must see!
- Susan, Waveland, MS
Great Song ive coverd it a few times live and it seems to get the crowd going.
- Harry, Truro, England