About the song
“Hey, Good Lookin'” is a timeless classic in the realm of American country music, penned and popularized by the legendary Hank Williams in 1951. This song, etched into the annals of music history, not only showcases Williams’ songwriting prowess but also embodies the spirit of an era transitioning into modernity.
The genesis of “Hey, Good Lookin'” is a tale of spontaneity and musical camaraderie. It is said that Hank Williams, known for his ability to craft poignant lyrics and infectious melodies, wrote the song in a mere 20 minutes. The inspiration struck while he was on a flight accompanied by fellow musicians Jimmy Dickens, Minnie Pearl, and Henry Cannon. The song’s inception was spurred by Williams’ encouragement to Dickens, affirming that he needed a hit to propel his own career.
Recorded on March 16, 1951, at Castle Studio in Nashville, “Hey, Good Lookin'” exudes a blend of country charm and burgeoning rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Backed by his faithful band, the Drifting Cowboys, Williams infused the recording with lively instrumentation, including fiddle, steel guitar, and rhythmic guitar, accompanied by a distinctive piano rhythm. Despite its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics, the song retains a hint of melancholy, characteristic of Williams’ emotive vocal delivery.
The lyrics themselves unfold as a flirtatious invitation laden with culinary metaphors, starting with a playful inquiry, “How’s about cookin’ somethin’ up with me?” As the verses progress, Williams weaves a narrative of courtship and commitment, proposing to “keep steady company” and humorously pledging to discard his date book, signaling his devotion.
Beyond its initial release, “Hey, Good Lookin'” has left an indelible mark on music culture, inspiring countless covers by diverse artists spanning various genres. Its enduring popularity was reaffirmed when the Recording Academy inducted Williams’ rendition into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001, recognizing its cultural significance and enduring appeal.
Moreover, Williams’ live performances, including a notable appearance on the Kate Smith Evening Hour in 1952, underscored his charisma and stage presence.
Video
Lyrics
Say, hey, good-looking
Whatcha got cooking?
How’s about cooking somethin’ up with me?
Hey, sweet baby
Don’t you think maybe
We could 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 dancin’ is free
So if you wanna have fun come along with me, see?
Hey, good-looking
Whatcha got cooking?
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 looking
I know I’ve been tooken
How’s about keeping steady company?
I’m gonna throw my date-book over the fence
And find me one for five or ten cents
I’ll keep it ’til it’s covered with age
‘Cause I’m writing your name down on every page
Say, hey good-looking
Whatcha got cooking?
How’s about cooking something up with me?