The song "Highway 49" by Howlin' Wolf tells the story of the singer's journey along Highway 49 in search of his lost love, Melv. He plans to hit the road early in the morning, heading towards Jackson town. The lyrics indicate that he feels a strong longing for Melv, who constantly occupies his thoughts. To start his journey, the singer stops by a whiskey store and purchases a jug of wine. This implies that he is seeking solace in alcohol to cope with his emotions. He emphasizes the significance of Highway 49, the route he travels, as it holds some sort of connection to his search for Melv. As he travels, he anticipates arriving in Jackson town soon, where he hopes to find Melv. However, there are rumors that she cannot be found there. Despite this uncertainty, the singer's devotion to Melv remains steadfast, as she is constantly on his mind. The song seems to convey a sense of desperation and a willingness to drown his sorrows in alcohol if he is unable to locate Melv. The lyrics express the singer's deep affection for his lost love, and his determination to find her, even if it means resorting to other means of comfort. Overall, "Highway 49" is a blues song that narrates a journey filled with longing, uncertainty, and the search for a lost love. Howlin' Wolf's powerful vocals and emotive delivery add to the heartfelt nature of the song.
