In the context of Led Zeppelin's iconic song "Whole Lotta Love," the phrase "back door man" refers to a man who is secretly engaged in an affair with a married woman.
Understanding the "Back Door Man"
The term "back door man" is a classic expression deeply rooted in American blues music and culture. It paints a vivid picture of infidelity and clandestine encounters.
- Blues Origins: The phrase originated in old blues songs, where it frequently appeared to describe illicit romantic relationships.
- The Scenario: It refers to a man who visits a married woman while her husband is away, typically sneaking in through the back door to avoid detection. The implication is that while the husband departs through the front door for work or other activities, the lover gains access via the less conspicuous back entrance to engage in a sexual relationship.
- Robert Plant's Use: When Robert Plant sings "I wanna be your back door man" in "Whole Lotta Love," he is expressing a desire to be this illicit lover. He's not necessarily advocating for infidelity, but rather using the powerful, sexually charged imagery from the blues tradition to convey a raw, passionate, and perhaps forbidden desire. It adds to the song's intense and seductive atmosphere.
This blues-derived imagery was a common lyrical device for Led Zeppelin, who frequently drew inspiration from the rich history of American blues music in their compositions. It emphasizes themes of desire, passion, and a somewhat rebellious take on conventional relationships, perfectly fitting the hard rock and blues-rock fusion of the band.
