Meaning of "Mushmouth Shoutin'" by ZZ Top

The lyrics of "Mushmouth Shoutin'" delve into the complications of a passionate yet tumultuous relationship. The speaker's intense feelings for their partner are evident as they express being wild about them and losing sleep over them. However, the partner's behavior when drunk, characterized by talking nonsensically and making odd purchases like alligators, creates tension and frustration in the relationship. Despite these issues, the speaker pleads with their partner to stop messing around and trying to portray them as someone they are not. The repeated refrain of "you just don't treat your daddy right" suggests a power dynamic within the relationship where the speaker feels neglected or unappreciated despite their strong emotions. The lyrical narrative captures the push and pull of a relationship where deep affection is coupled with exasperation and a sense of being misunderstood.