Knock on Wood (1979) 9/26/20

In 1966, Eddie Floyd and legendary guitarist Steve Cropper wrote the song “Knock On Wood,” which Eddie took to #1 on the Soul Chart, and a very respectable #28 on the Hot 100.

In 1974, David Bowie released a live version that made the Top 10 in Ireland, the UK and Norway, but was not released in North America.

Then, in 1979, Amii Stewart recorded a smoking hot disco version that became a “Great Song of the '70s” all over the world! In fact, it was a Top 10 smash in 12 countries. In the US, it went to #1 on the Hot 100, #5 on the Disco Chart and #6 on the Soul Chart. In Canada, it did even better: #1 on the Top 40, Disco, AND Adult Contemporary Charts!

Amii's version was incredibly danceable...and was guaranteed to fill the floor at She-Nannigans in Eau Claire, well into the '80s.

The most amazing part of the song was the “knocking!” It sounded like a sonic battering ram pounding on a HUGE wooden door. As a DJ, I made sure the dance floor volume was cranked all the way up, and would watch with glee as dancers literally fell down, tables would shake, and drinks would rattle. Everyone LOVED it—especially me.

So turn up your speakers to “infinity,” click the link, and enjoy this “Great Song of 1979!”

Here's the original by Eddie Floyd:

David Bowie: