Hank Williams – Hey Good Lookin’

About the song

“Hey, Good Lookin’” is a timeless country music classic that has been delighting audiences for generations. Written and recorded by the legendary Hank Williams in 1951, this iconic song has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and voted one of the greatest country songs of all time by CMT. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and Williams’ distinctive vocals.

The song’s origins are fascinating, with Williams drawing inspiration from a 1942 song with the same title written by Cole Porter for the Broadway musical Something for the Boys. Williams’ version, however, is a unique blend of country, blues, and swing, with lyrics that are both playful and romantic. The song’s opening lines, “How’s about cookin’ somethin’ up with me?”, set the tone for a flirtatious and charming tune that has become a staple of country music.

Interestingly, Williams wrote the song in just 20 minutes while on a plane with friends, including musician Jimmy Dickens and comedian Minnie Pearl. The song was recorded on March 16, 1951, at Castle Studio in Nashville, with Williams backed by members of his Drifting Cowboys band. The song’s release was a major success, and it has since been covered by numerous artists.

The song’s significance extends beyond its musical appeal, however. It is a testament to Williams’ innovative spirit and his ability to blend different musical styles to create something new and exciting. The song’s performance on the Kate Smith Evening Hour in 1952, featuring Williams in his iconic white cowboy suit, is a rare and precious glimpse into the singer’s live performances. Overall, “Hey, Good Lookin’” is a country music masterpiece that continues to delight audiences to this day.

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?