Mother-in-law (mother-in law), mother-in-law (mother-in-law)
The worst person I know, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
She worries me so, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
If she leaves us alone, we would have a happy home
Sent from down below
(Mother-in-law) mother-in-law, (mother-in-law), mother-in-law
Sin should be her name, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
To me, they're about the same, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
Every time I open my mouth, she steps in, tries to put me out
How could she stoop so low?
(Mother-in-law), mother-in-law, (mother-in-law), mother-in-law
I come home with my pay, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
She asks me what I make, mother-in-law, mother-in-law
She thinks her advice is a contribution
But if she will leave that will be a solution
And don't come back no more
(Mother-in-law), mother-in-law, (mother-in-law), mother-in-law
Mother in law, mother in law, oh
About This Song
"Mother In Law" is a wickedly humorous yet deeply felt expression of marital frustration that taps into one of the most universal domestic tensions in human relationships. Ernie K-Doe's 1961 hit transforms what could be a tired comedy trope into a genuine blues lament, with the singer portraying his mother-in-law as a malevolent force who systematically destroys his peace and happiness. The song's genius lies in its exaggerated biblical imagery-comparing the mother-in-law to Satan himself-which elevates personal grievance into cosmic battle between good and evil. K-Doe's vocal delivery perfectly balances genuine anguish with theatrical melodrama, creating a performance that's simultaneously heartfelt and tongue-in-cheek. The New Orleans R&B production, with its rolling piano, punchy horns, and infectious groove, provides an irresistibly danceable backdrop that contrasts brilliantly with the song's complaints of domestic misery. What made the track resonate so powerfully was its bold articulation of a taboo subject-openly criticizing one's in-laws-wrapped in enough humor and musical joy to make the sentiment socially acceptable. The call-and-response structure and repetitive chanting of "mother-in-law" creates an almost ritualistic quality, as if K-Doe is leading a communal exorcism of interfering relatives. The song became a #1 hit because it gave voice to countless married men's secret frustrations while providing the perfect party anthem for working through domestic tensions with laughter and rhythm.
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