About the song
“Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me,” penned and performed by the versatile Mac Davis, stands as a seminal piece in both country and pop music history. Released as part of his breakthrough album of the same name in 1972, this song soared to the top of the charts, securing the number one spot on both the Billboard Hot 100 and Easy Listening charts in September of that year. Its popularity was further underscored by its ranking as the eighth best-performing song on Billboard’s year-end chart for 1972.
Mac Davis, spurred by a challenge from his record label to craft a song with a distinctive “hook,” delivered with “Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me.” The song’s infectious melody and Davis’s emotive vocals struck a chord with audiences across genres, propelling it to widespread acclaim and commercial success. Beyond its achievements in pop, “Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me” also made a mark in the country music scene, peaking at number 26 on the country charts amidst its broader mainstream triumph.
The song’s impact extended beyond radio airwaves and charts. Mac Davis’s charismatic presence and musical prowess earned him a guest spot on The Muppet Show, where he performed “Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me,” further cementing its place in pop culture. Davis’s ability to blend country sensibilities with pop appeal showcased his versatility as a songwriter and performer, resonating with diverse audiences during a pivotal era in music history.
“Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me” remains a timeless classic, not only for its catchy refrain and heartfelt lyrics but also for its role in defining Mac Davis as a significant figure in 1970s music. Its enduring popularity underscores its status as a standout achievement in Davis’s career and a cornerstone of the era’s musical landscape.
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Lyrics
Girl, you’re gettin’ that look in your eyes
And it’s startin’ to worry me
I ain’t ready for no family ties
Nobody’s gonna hurry me
Just keep it friendly, girl
‘Cause I don’t wanna leave
Don’t start clingin’ to me, girl
‘Cause I can’t breathe
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
‘Cause I’ll just use you then I’ll set you free
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
Girl, you’re a hot-blooded woman, child
And it’s warm where you’re touchin’ me
But I can tell by your tremblin’ smile
You’re seein’ way too much in me
Girl, don’t let your life get tangled up with mine
‘Cause I’ll just leave you
I can’t take no clingin’ vine
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
‘Cause I’ll just use you then I’ll set you free
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
‘Cause I’ll just use you then I’ll set you free
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me
Baby, baby, don’t get hooked on me