How a Bathroom Break Inspired a Soul Classic

Songwriter David Porter recounts the story behind Sam & Dave's hit 'Hold On, I'm Comin'

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:06pm

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An extreme close-up of shattered glass fragments reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the energy and inspiration behind classic soul music.The serendipitous story behind one of soul music's most iconic songs reveals the creative sparks that ignited the genre's golden era.Memphis Today

In his new memoir, legendary Stax songwriter David Porter reveals how a late-night bathroom visit led to the creation of one of the most iconic soul songs of the 1960s, Sam & Dave's 'Hold On, I'm Comin'.

Why it matters

As one-half of the famous Stax songwriting team Hayes and Porter, David Porter was responsible for countless soul hits that defined the sound of Memphis music in the 1960s. His memoir provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind some of the era's most enduring songs.

The details

Porter recounts how he and his songwriting partner Isaac Hayes were working late one night at the Stax studio, trying to come up with a new hit for Sam & Dave. After Porter stepped away to use the restroom, he was inspired by his own response to Hayes calling for him to hurry up - 'Hold on, I'm coming!' That phrase became the basis for the song, with Porter and Hayes crafting a story about a 'Superman-type of character' coming to the rescue of a woman in distress. They quickly wrote the song, with Porter providing the melody and lyrics, and Hayes contributing a signature horn riff. The duo then brought in legendary Stax drummer Al Jackson Jr. to lay down the perfect rhythm track, creating one of the most iconic soul songs of the 1960s.

  • Porter and Hayes were working late at the Stax studio, likely around 1:30 a.m. to 4:30 a.m.
  • A couple weeks prior, Hayes had recorded the horn riff that would become the signature sound of 'Hold On, I'm Comin'.

The players

David Porter

One-half of the famous Stax songwriting team Hayes and Porter, responsible for countless soul hits in the 1960s.

Isaac Hayes

Porter's songwriting partner, who contributed the signature horn riff that became the foundation of 'Hold On, I'm Comin'.

Sam Moore

One half of the soul duo Sam & Dave, who recorded 'Hold On, I'm Comin' and other hits written by Porter and Hayes.

Dave Prater

The other half of the soul duo Sam & Dave, who recorded 'Hold On, I'm Comin' and other hits written by Porter and Hayes.

Al Jackson Jr.

The legendary Stax drummer who laid down the iconic rhythm track for 'Hold On, I'm Comin'.

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What they’re saying

“I got a hit!”

— David Porter, Songwriter

“Don't you ever feel sad.”

— David Porter, Songwriter

What’s next

Porter's memoir The Soul Man, which details the full story behind the creation of 'Hold On, I'm Comin'' and many other classic soul hits, is out now.

The takeaway

Porter's story highlights the serendipitous moments of inspiration that can lead to the creation of timeless music, as well as the collaborative process behind some of the most iconic songs of the soul era.