Hank Williams – Hey Good Lookin’

About the song

“Hey, Good Lookin’,” a classic 1951 country song by Hank Williams, remains an enduring piece of American musical history, celebrated for its lively melody and playful lyrics. Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001, the song has solidified its place as a quintessential example of Williams’ songwriting prowess and influence on country music.

Written and recorded by Williams in a remarkably short span of 20 minutes during a plane ride with fellow musicians Jimmy Dickens, Minnie Pearl, and Henry Cannon, “Hey, Good Lookin'” was born out of Williams’ friendly challenge to Dickens to create a hit record. Its lyrics, characterized by clever double entendres centered around food and romance, immediately captivated audiences and became a signature tune for Williams.

Recorded on March 16, 1951, at Castle Studio in Nashville, the session not only produced the upbeat and catchy “Hey, Good Lookin'” but also included other Williams classics like “My Heart Would Know” and “I Can’t Help It (If I’m Still in Love with You).” Backed by his talented Drifting Cowboys band, Williams infused the song with his distinctive vocal style, complemented by the lively instrumentation of fiddle, steel guitar, and piano.

The song’s appeal extended beyond its initial release, inspiring numerous cover versions by various artists across different genres. Its popularity was further underscored when CMT ranked Williams’ rendition as No. 19 on their list of the 100 Greatest Songs of Country Music in 2003, highlighting its enduring impact on the genre.

Williams’ live performance of “Hey, Good Lookin'” on the Kate Smith Evening Hour in 1952 remains a rare but cherished footage of the singer showcasing his charisma and stage presence. Dressed in his iconic white cowboy suit adorned with musical notes, Williams exudes charm as he interacts with fellow musicians and the audience, embodying the essence of country music’s golden era.

Overall, “Hey, Good Lookin'” continues to resonate with listeners for its infectious melody, clever wordplay, and Hank Williams’ unmistakable talent. Its legacy as a classic of American music endures, reminding us of Williams’ lasting influence on country music and his timeless ability to connect with audiences through his songs.

Video

Lyrics

Say hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?
Hey, sweet baby – don’t you think maybe
We can find us a brand new recipe?

I got a hot rod Ford, and a two dollar bill
And I know a spot right over the hill
There’s soda pop and the dancing’s free
So if you wanna have fun, come along with me

Say hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?

I’m free and ready, so we can go steady.
How’s about saving all your time for me?
No more lookin’ – I know I been tookin’
Hows about keepin’ steady company?

I’m gonna throw my date book over the fence
And buy me one for five or ten cents
I’ll keep it till it’s covered with age
Cause I’m writin’ your name down on every page

Say hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?

Say hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?
Hey, sweet baby – don’t you think maybe
We can find us a brand new recipe?

I got a hot rod Ford, and a two dollar bill
And I know a spot right over the hill
There’s soda pop and the dancing’s free
So if you wanna have fun, come along with me

Say hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?

I’m free and ready, so we can go steady.
How’s about saving all your time for me?
No more lookin’ – I know I been tookin’
Hows about keepin’ steady company?

I’m gonna throw my date book over the fence
And buy me one for five or ten cents
I’ll keep it till it’s covered with age
Cause I’m writin’ your name down on every page

Say hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?