On this day in music history: November 19, 1966 - Knock On Wood by Eddie Floyd hits #1 on the Billboard R&B singles chart for 1 week, also peaking at #28 on the Hot 100 on December 10, 1966. Written by Eddie Floyd and Steve Cropper, It will be the biggest hit for Alabama born soul singer. The song is actually recorded in the Summer of 1965 (with Booker T. & The MGs, Isaac Hayes on piano, and The Mar-Keys horn section), but is held back from release by Stax Records president Jim Stewart when he believes that it is too similar to Wilson Picketts In The Midnight Hour. The record will actually experience resistance from radio upon its release, failing to receive any airplay initially. Stax Records head Al Bell will hit upon the idea of Floyd performing live in an area where he has a strong fanbase. Washington DC will be city that is chosen. The ploy will work, with the single breaking on radio stations in the DC and Baltimore area. From there, the record will go national. Over the years, Knock On Wood will be covered by a number of artists including versions by Ike & Tina Turner, David Bowie, and Eric Clapton. Singer Amii Stewarts disco rendering of the song will become a worldwide hit, hitting number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in April of 1979. Knock On Wood is certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.
Posted on: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 23:00:13 +0000
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