AEROSMITH - MAMA KIN

Released: January 5, 1973

Album: Aerosmith

"Mama Kin" is a hard rock song featured on the 1973 self-titled debut album and written by lead singer Steven Tyler. Known for its raw energy and aggressive lyrics, it became a concert staple and appeared on several live albums. The song’s hard-hitting guitar riffs and use of saxophone reflect the band’s early influence from The Rolling Stones. "Mama Kin" is considered one of Aerosmith's most enduring tracks, showcasing the gritty rock style they would revisit throughout their career.

"Mama Kin" was one of the early songs that Steven Tyler envisioned when Aerosmith was formed. The song represents Steven Tyler's concept of a spiritual force that fuels creativity and desire. The phrase "Keep in touch with Mama Kin" serves as a reminder to stay connected with what drives personal ambition and excellence. This song was crucial in Aerosmith's early success, helping them secure a record deal with Columbia Records after Clive Davis saw them perform it live in 1972. Tyler believed in the song's potential so strongly that he had "MA KIN" tattooed on his bicep, predicting it would make the band rich and famous.

Tyler crafted the lyrics using a method he often employed in the band's early years: he would take Tuinal pills, scat nonsensical sounds into a recorder while Joe Perry played guitar, and later listen to the playback to replace the scat with actual words. 

Guns N' Roses frequently performed "Mama Kin" at their early shows and even covered it on their 1988 live album “G'N'R Lies”. In 1988, Guns N' Roses opened for Aerosmith on their “Permanent Vacation” tour. During the tour, "Sweet Child O' Mine" became the #1 song in the U.S., propelling G N' R to immense popularity. While Aerosmith felt slighted when Rolling Stone magazine favored Guns N' Roses for a cover story, the two bands had a strong rapport on tour, with Guns N' Roses showing great respect for Aerosmith. At the tour's final show, Aerosmith invited Guns N' Roses on stage for a memorable extended performance of "Mama Kin."