The Lumineers reveal how they created their hit song “Ho Hey”
t doesn’t have a traditional chorus. The process of recording Ho Hey was a challenging one. Despite numerous attempts, the song just wasn’t coming together. Trying different recording techniques, including recording in a bathroom for natural reverb, didn’t quite capture the essence of the song. It needed a certain looseness that was missing.
When producer Kevin Augunas suggested recording without a click track or metronome, everything changed. The decision to play without constraint allowed the song to breathe and flow naturally. The iconic “one, two, three” cue in the song was a subtle reminder to slightly pick up the tempo, adding to the song’s dynamic.
The catchy “ho hey” chant that became synonymous with the song came about after being inspired by the Felice Brothers’ cover of the old railroad tune, Take This Hammer. Transitioning from covering music to performing their original songs was a pivotal shift for the band. Shouting “Ho hey!” from the stage was a way to command attention and be heard in a sea of noise. Little did they know, this simple chant would capture the hearts of listeners everywhere.
Jeremiah Fraites, the band’s percussionist and backing vocalist, recalls the early days of performing in New York bars. The Lumineers were paid $100, given cheeseburgers, and beers to play cover songs. But the moment they introduced an original song, the crowd seemed to dissipate, shifting their focus elsewhere. It was a challenging time for the band as they navigated the competitive music scene in New York.
After relocating to Denver, the band faced long drives and financial struggles while trying to build their fan base. Ho Hey, with its acoustic sound, allowed them to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Unplugging their instruments and immersing themselves in the crowd brought a raw authenticity to their performances, setting them apart from the rest.
The journey to record Ho Hey was a labor of love. From initial fragments to intense songwriting sessions in Jeremiah’s parents’ attic, the song went through various iterations. Experimenting with different sounds and recording techniques, they eventually settled on a stripped-down version that captured the essence of the song. The absence of a traditional bass was compensated for by a bold cello pizzicato that added depth and richness to the track.
Despite initial setbacks, Ho Hey found its way onto the airwaves and into the hearts of listeners. A chance placement on a TV show catapulted the song to newfound fame, sparking curiosity about the Lumineers. Suddenly, the band was thrust into the spotlight, with Ho Hey becoming an anthem for a generation.
The Lumineers’ journey from New York bars to international stardom is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and unwavering passion for music. Ho Hey may have been born out of heartbreak and frustration, but its enduring legacy is one of triumph and success. A reminder that sometimes, the most powerful songs come from the deepest of emotions.