About the song
“Hot for Teacher” by Van Halen is an iconic rock anthem that captures the essence of the band’s energy and irreverence. Released as the fourth single from their 1984 album, this song stands out not only for its musical prowess but also for its memorable music video that became a hallmark of 1980s pop culture.
Penned by the band members themselves—Eddie and Alex Van Halen, Michael Anthony, and David Lee Roth—the track showcases Alex Van Halen’s dynamic double bass drumming right from its explosive 30-second drum solo intro. This distinctive opening, reminiscent of jazz-rock influences, sets the stage for a high-octane blend of glam metal, heavy metal, and hard rock styles.
The music video, directed by Pete Angelus and David Lee Roth, adds another layer to the song’s allure. Filmed at John Marshall High School, it humorously portrays the band as both adults and their younger selves, navigating the trials of grade school alongside a nerdy protagonist named Waldo. The video features comedic moments, including teachers stripping down to bikinis to the cheers of students, and ends with imaginative futures for each band member, contrasting their youthful aspirations with humorous adult realities.
Controversial yet undeniably groundbreaking, the video initially sparked debate over its risqué content, such as the band’s notorious crotch-grabbing antics during the chorus. Despite early censorship, the video’s unabashed style eventually won over audiences and cemented its place in music video history.
Critically acclaimed for its musical intensity and technical skill, “Hot for Teacher” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Van Halen’s enduring influence on rock music. Its legacy is further underscored by accolades like VH1 ranking it among the greatest hard rock songs of all time, and critics celebrating it as quintessential Van Halen—combining athletic drumming, intricate guitar work, and Roth’s charismatic vocals.
In essence, “Hot for Teacher” not only embodies Van Halen’s musical virtuosity but also their penchant for pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable rock anthems that resonate across generations.
Video
Lyrics
(Oh, wow, man, I said
Wait a second, man
What do you think the teacher’s gonna look like this year?
Fuck man!)
Oh yeah, t-t-teacher stop that screamin’
Teacher don’t you see? Don’t wanna be no uptown fool
Maybe I should go to hell but I am doing well
Teacher needs to see me after school
I think of all the education that I’ve missed
But then my homework was never quite like this
Ow! Got it bad, got it bad, got it bad
I’m hot for teacher
I’ve got it bad, so bad
I’m hot for teacher
(Hey, I heard you missed us, we’re back!
I brought my pencil
Give me something to write on, man
Whoa)
I heard about your lessons but lessons are so cold
I didn’t know about this school
Little girl from Cherry Lawn, how can you be so bold?
How did you know that golden rule?
I think of all the education that I’ve missed
But then my homework was never quite like this
Whoa! Got it bad, got it bad, got it bad
I’m hot for teacher
I’ve got it bad, so bad
I’m hot for teacher, woh
(Oh man, I think the clock is slow
What are you doin’ this weekend?
I don’t feel tardy
Class dismissed)
Ooh, yeah
I’ve got it bad, got it bad, got it bad
I’m hot for teacher
Whoa
Oh! Yes I’m hot
Oh my God!
Whoo!