Abuot the song
“Hey Joe!” is a timeless classic that has been delighting music lovers for generations. Written by the talented Boudleaux Bryant in 1953, this catchy tune has become an iconic piece of American music history. The song’s original version, recorded by Carl Smith for Columbia Records, topped the US country music chart for an impressive eight weeks, marking Bryant’s first number one record.
But that’s not all – “Hey Joe!” also crossed over into the pop charts, thanks to a memorable cover version by Frankie Laine. Recorded on June 22, 1953, with the Paul Weston Orchestra and the Norman Luboff Choir, Laine’s rendition brought a new level of excitement to the song. Produced by Mitch Miller, the single was released by Columbia Records and quickly became a hit, peaking at number six on the Billboard Best Selling Singles chart.
Across the pond, Laine’s “Hey Joe!” was an even bigger sensation, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and staying on the chart for eight weeks. This marked Laine’s second UK chart-topper, cementing his status as a music legend. With its infectious melody and nostalgic charm, “Hey Joe!” remains a beloved classic that continues to bring joy to listeners of all ages.
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Lyrics
Hey Joe, where’d you find that pearly-girly?
Where’d you get that jolly-dolly?
How’d you rate that dish I wish was mine?
Hey Joe, she’s got skin that’s creamy-dreamy
Eyes that look so lovey-dovey
Lips as red as cherry-berry wine
Now listen Joe, I ain’t no heel
But old buddy let me tell you how I feel
She’s a honey, she’s a sugar-pie
I’m warning you I’m gonna try to steal her from you
Hey Joe, though we’ve been the best of friends
This is where our friendship ends
I gotta have that dolly for my own
Hey Joe, come on let’s be buddy-duddy
Show me you’re my palsy-walsy
Introduce that pretty little chick to me
Hey Joe, quit that waiting, hesitating
Let me at her, what’s the matter
You’re as slow as any Joe can be
Now come on Joe, let’s make a deal
Let me dance with her to see if she is real
She’s the cutest girl I’ve ever seen
I’ll tell you face to face I mean to steal her from you
Hey Joe, now we’ll be friends till the end
This looks like the end, my friend
I gotta have that dolly for my own