Learn to Play “Hey Good Lookin” by Hank Williams
Master the Guitar with Hank Williams' "Hey Good Lookin" - A Step-by-Step Guide
Hank Williams is a cornerstone of country music, and his timeless classic "Hey Good Lookin'" remains one of the most beloved songs in the genre. Whether you're new to guitar or a seasoned player looking to expand your repertoire, learning this song is an excellent way to improve your rhythm guitar skills while diving into country music history.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to play "Hey Good Lookin'" on guitar, including the chords, strumming patterns, and tips to make your rendition shine. And if you're ready to take your skills even further, check out our beginner-friendly rhythm guitar course, Strum Masters!
Why Learn "Hey Good Lookin'"?
"Hey Good Lookin'" is a perfect song for beginners and country music fans alike. Here's why:
Simple Chord Progressions: With only three basic chords—C, D, F, and G—this song is approachable for guitarists at any level.
Catchy Strumming Patterns: The rhythm embodies that classic country swing, making it a great practice piece for your timing and strumming.
Iconic Song: Playing "Hey Good Lookin'" connects you with the roots of country music, giving you a piece of history to enjoy.
Step 1: Chords You’ll Need
The song’s chord progression is straightforward, which makes it ideal for beginners. Here are the three chords you’ll need:
C Major
F Major (don’t worry—we’ll include an easy version if you’re not comfortable with barre chords yet!)
G Major
D Major
Practice switching between these chords until you can transition smoothly. Use a metronome to stay in time and build muscle memory.
Step 2: Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern for "Hey Good Lookin'" features a classic down-down-up-up-down-up rhythm, giving it a laid-back yet bouncy feel. Try playing the “Boom Chick” strumming pattern for “Hey Good Lookin’”
Keep your strums relaxed and consistent. If you’re a beginner, start slow and gradually increase your speed until you match the tempo of the original recording.
Step 3: Chord Progression
"Hey Good Lookin'" follows a simple progression that repeats throughout the verses and chorus. Check out the video tutorial for the chord progression:
Play along with the song to feel how the chords flow naturally. Listening to Hank Williams' original recording is a great way to internalize the timing.
Step 4: Adding Your Style
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start adding your flair to the song. Here are some ideas:
Bass Runs: Incorporate simple bass runs between chord changes for a more authentic country sound.
Palm Muting: Lightly rest the side of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge to add texture.
Sing Along: Pair your guitar playing with vocals to capture the full essence of this classic hit.
Fun Facts About "Hey Good Lookin'"
Hank Williams wrote "Hey Good Lookin'" in just 20 minutes!
The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001, solidifying its place in music history.
Its influence spans genres, with covers by artists ranging from Ray Charles to Johnny Cash.
Join Our Rhythm Guitar Course
If you enjoyed learning "Hey Good Lookin'," why not take your guitar skills to the next level? Our Strum Masters course is designed to help you master rhythm guitar with easy-to-follow lessons. Perfect for beginners and players looking to refine their technique.