The lyrics of "Red House" by John Lee Hooker talk about a man who has been away from home for a long time and returns to find that his key won't unlock the door, indicating that his baby no longer lives there. He expresses a sense of abandonment and sadness, but finds solace in his guitar and the possibility of finding love elsewhere.

Meaning of "Red House" by John Lee Hooker

The lyrics of "Red House" convey a sense of longing and heartache as the protagonist returns home after a long absence only to find that his partner has left him. The repeated mention of the red house symbolizes the sense of loss and betrayal he feels upon discovering that his relationship has come to an end. The inability to unlock the door with his key emphasizes the finality of the situation and his realization that his baby no longer lives there. Despite the pain and rejection he experiences, the protagonist finds solace in music, specifically his guitar, which serves as a form of emotional release and healing. The mention of his baby's sister suggests a subtle hint of moving on and finding love in unexpected places. Overall, the lyrics of "Red House" reflect themes of love, loss, and resilience in the face of heartbreak.