He was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Arkansas. Wells moved to Chicago in 1948 and first made his mark at age 18 playing in Muddy Waters' band. He later worked with Buddy Guy in the 1960s and recorded for Delmark Records. His most memorable songs are "Messin' With the Kid" and "Little by Little," and his best-known album, 1965's Hoodoo Man Blues, which evokes the smoky atmosphere of the era's Westside Chicago blues bars.
Wells made an appearance in the 1998 movie Blues Brothers 2000, the sequel to The Blues Brothers. The movie was released less than a month after his death.
On his passing in 1998, Junior Wells was interred in the Oak Woods Cemetery, Chicago.
You Better Watch Yourself
Junior Wells Lyrics
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Oh baby, you gonna miss me when I'm gone
Well I try to please you baby
All I did was wrong
Oh baby, I love you like never before
Oh baby, you gonna miss me child when I'm gone
Well I tried to please you baby
The people they're talking all over town
They say you don't love me
You're gonna put me down
You better watch yourself
You better watch yourself
You better watch yourself
'Cause I got my eyes on you
Listen here
I don't care what the people say
I got to love you girl
Any old way
You better watch yourself
You better watch yourself
You better watch yourself
'Cause I got my eyes on you
Get back get back get back
I don't care what the people say
I'm gonna love you girl
Any whole way
You better watch yourself
You gotta watch yourself
Oh you better watch yourself
I got my eyes on you
The lyrics of Junior Wells's song "You Better Watch Yourself" convey a message of warning and frustration in a relationship where the singer feels unappreciated and misunderstood. The opening lines "Oh baby, you gonna miss me when I'm gone" indicate a sense of impending separation or departure. The singer tries to please their partner, but their efforts are seen as misguided or inadequate. The line "All I did was wrong" expresses a feeling of helplessness and the inability to meet their partner's expectations.
The chorus emphasizes the singer's vigilance and assertiveness: "You better watch yourself, 'cause I got my eyes on you." This line suggests that the singer is aware of their partner's actions and may be ready to confront any potential mistreatment or betrayal. The repeated use of "watch yourself" reflects the singer's caution and the desire to protect themselves.
The second verse further emphasizes the struggle in the relationship, with the singer acknowledging their love for their partner, yet recognizing that they will be missed when they are gone. The mention of people talking and spreading rumors about the relationship adds a layer of external scrutiny and judgment. Despite the public perception, the singer remains resolute in their love and steadfast in their commitment.
Overall, "You Better Watch Yourself" showcases the frustration and warning signs present in a troubled relationship. It highlights the singer's awareness and determination to protect themselves, while also expressing their love and desire to make things work.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh baby, you gonna miss me when I'm gone
Oh darling, you'll realize how much you'll long for me once I'm no longer around
Well I try to please you baby, All I did was wrong
I made an effort to make you happy, but unfortunately, I only brought you disappointment
Oh baby, I love you like never before
Sweetheart, my affection for you has reached a level it has never been before
But we just couldn't get along
However, despite our attempts, we simply couldn't find harmony in our relationship
The people they're talking all over town, They say you don't love me, You're gonna put me down
Everyone in town is spreading rumors that you don't truly love me and that you plan to reject me
You better watch yourself
You should be cautious and mindful of your actions
'Cause I got my eyes on you
Because I am closely observing and paying attention to your behavior
I don't care what the people say, I got to love you girl, Any old way
I disregard the opinions of others; I am determined to love you, no matter how unconventional it may seem
Get back get back get back
Step aside, move away, stay out of my path
You gotta watch yourself
You must be cautious and aware of your actions
Oh you better watch yourself
Oh, you should definitely be more mindful of your behavior
I got my eyes on you
I am closely observing and paying attention to you
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: WALTER JACOBS, WILLIE DIXON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind