About the Song

“Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is a lively and whimsical song recorded by Creedence Clearwater Revival, written by lead singer and songwriter John Fogerty. It was included in their 1970 album Cosmo’s Factory and became one of their biggest hits, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Interestingly, it was held off the top spot by Diana Ross’s version of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” but it did become the band’s only No. 1 hit on the Cash Box Top 100 chart.

The song’s lyrics are full of colorful, dream-like imagery, often interpreted as depicting a fantastical world. The references to a parade, a flying spoon, and a range of animals led some listeners to speculate that it was about drugs. However, Fogerty has clarified that the song was written for his three-year-old son, Josh, who he knew would enjoy hearing him sing the playful “doot doot doo” on the radio. The parade reference, in particular, was inspired by a Dr. Seuss book, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street

Despite the whimsical nature of the song, some listeners initially thought the surreal imagery hinted at a drug trip, with the “flying spoon” allegedly referencing a drug spoon. However, Fogerty has consistently denied this, emphasizing that the song was meant to capture the innocent joy he felt in creating a fun and engaging piece of music for his son.

Musical Influence and Fogerty’s Contributions
The song’s upbeat, country-rock feel also reflects the influence of the Bakersfield sound, especially with the mention of country star Buck Owens, whose style had a profound impact on American country music. John Fogerty contributed to the song by playing dobro, an instrument that he later became known for mastering, particularly in his solo career. Although he was seen with the instrument on the cover of CCR’s Green River album, “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is the only track on which he played the dobro with the band. This instrument would later play a significant role in Fogerty’s solo work, especially on his 1997 album Blue Moon Swamp

Reception and Legacy
Critics were quick to praise the track, with Cash Box describing it as a “rough-hewn bit of dance material that should sparkle,” and Record World calling it a “super-smash.” Billboard also highlighted its catchy rhythm and clever lyrics. Today, “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” remains a beloved song in the CCR catalog, known for its joyous melody, catchy rhythm, and vibrant imagery. Its blend of Americana and rock elements, alongside its connection to John Fogerty’s personal life, makes it a standout track in the band’s extensive legacy.

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’
Doo, doo, 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
Doo, doo, doo, lookin’ out my back door
Tambourines and elephants are playin’ in the band
Won’t you take a ride on the flyin’ spoon? Dood-n-doo-doo
Wonderous apparition provided by magician
Doo, doo, doo, lookin’ out my back door
Tambourines and elephants are playin’ in the band
Won’t you take a ride on the flyin’ spoon? Dood-n-doo-doo
Bother me tomorrow, today I’ll buy no sorrows
Doo, doo, 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
Doo, doo, doo, lookin’ out my back door