About the song
“Hey, Good Lookin'” is a classic song that holds a special place in country music history. Written and recorded by the legendary Hank Williams in 1951, this lively tune quickly became a hallmark of his career. Its timeless appeal was recognized when it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001, and it was also ranked No. 19 on CMT’s list of the 100 Greatest Songs of Country Music in 2003.
The song’s origins are interesting. While Hank Williams’s “Hey, Good Lookin'” shares a title with a 1942 Cole Porter song from the Broadway musical *Something for the Boys*, Williams’s version took a different direction. His lyrics are playful and flirtatious, filled with charming double entendres about cooking and romance. As the song progresses, it shifts from playful banter to a promise of a steady relationship, showing Williams’s skill in blending humor with heartfelt sentiments.
Williams’s creation of the song is a story of quick inspiration. He wrote “Hey, Good Lookin'” in just 20 minutes while on a plane with fellow musicians Jimmy Dickens, Minnie Pearl, and her husband, Henry Cannon. Williams, known for his generosity, initially intended the song as a hit for Dickens but ended up recording it himself, famously remarking that the song was “too good” for Dickens.
The song was recorded at Castle Studio in Nashville on March 16, 1951, alongside other tracks that would become famous. With backing from his Drifting Cowboys band, including notable musicians such as Jerry Rivers and Don Helms, the recording session produced several memorable songs.
One of the highlights of Williams’s career was his performance of “Hey, Good Lookin'” on the Kate Smith Evening Hour in 1952. This live appearance remains one of the few existing film clips of Williams performing, showcasing his charisma and stage presence. The performance, featuring Williams in his iconic white cowboy suit, remains a cherished piece of country music history.
Video
Lyrics
Say hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cookin’ 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 meSay hey, good lookin’ – what ya got cookin’?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?[Steel Guitar Solo]
[Fiddle Solo]
[Steel Guitar Solo]I’m free and ready, so we can go steady
How’s about savin’ all your time for me?
No more lookin’, I know I been tooken
How’s about keepin’ steady company?