Little Richard bought half of the song's rights while Collins was in Louisiana State Penitentiary.

[2] The song foreshadowed the rhythmic feel of 1960s rock music in several ways, including its heavy bassline and slower tempo, inspired by the chugging of a train the band had been riding.

[3] The scene-setting sections also feature stop-time breaks and no change in harmony, and it has a darker sound because most of the instruments use a low register.

[4] Little Richard sang and played piano on his recording, backed by a band consisting of Lee Allen (tenor saxophone), Alvin "Red" Tyler (baritone sax), Roy Montrell (guitar), Frank Fields (bass), and Earl Palmer (drums).

[6] Music critic and writer Dave Marsh included the song on his list of The 1001 Greatest Singles Ever Made at number 670.