Unveiling the Tale: Hank Williams Jr.‘s Unlikely Journey with “Ain’t Misbehavin'”
(writers: Thomas “Fats” Waller, Andy Razaf & Harry Brooks)
Fats Waller (#17 pop, 1929) Hank Williams Jr. (#1 country, 1986)
The story behind Hank Williams Jr.‘s unexpected country hit, “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” traces back to the vibrant streets of Harlem and the melodic genius of Thomas “Fats” Waller. Born in New York City in 1904, Waller revolutionized the blues scene with his mesmerizing “stride” piano style. And among his many timeless compositions, “Ain’t Misbehavin'” emerged as a remarkable gem.
The song first found its place in the spotlight during the musical revue “Ain’t Misbehavin'” on Broadway’s Longacre Theater in 1978. Paying homage to Fats Waller’s creative legacy, the production showcased thirty of his beloved tunes, including the iconic “Ain’t Misbehavin’.” This jazz-infused masterpiece had initially soared to fame in 1929 when the legendary Louis Armstrong performed it in the all-black revue “Hot Chocolates” in Harlem.
As Waller collaborated with Andy Razaf to compose the lyrics, the essence of “Ain’t Misbehavin'” came to life on the vibrant streets of 133rd Street in Harlem. The song’s creation was a whirlwind, taking just 45 minutes to craft the melodic idea and weave the words together. Years later, in 1943, Waller revisited his 1929 version for the movie “Stormy Weather,” showcasing the timeless nature of his musical brilliance.
Little did anyone anticipate that this jazz-infused classic would find a home in the realm of country music. But fate intervened when Hank Williams Jr., an artist known for his musical versatility, stumbled upon “Ain’t Misbehavin'” and felt an irresistible connection. Determined to put his unique spin on the song, Williams Jr. included it as the third single on his “Five-0” album.
In a true display of his artistry, Williams Jr. sought the talents of Jerry McKinney for an extraordinary soprano sax solo, adding a touch of brilliance to the country rendition. Despite trimming over a minute of music from the original, the single version of “Ain’t Misbehavin'” proved its resilience, climbing to the coveted number one spot on Billboard’s country chart on May 17, 1986, after an impressive 13-week journey.
The musical lineage and influences surrounding Hank Williams Jr. shed light on his unique mix of genres, blending blues, pure pop, hard country, and even Southern rock. Growing up in the heart of the South during the vibrant ’50s, Williams Jr., the son of legendary Hank Williams, found himself surrounded by an eclectic mix of musical cultures. His childhood was filled with encounters with iconic figures such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, Perry Como, Charlie Rich, Al Hirt, Elvis Presley, alongside the country music luminaries of the time.
“Ain’t Misbehavin'” marked the final single in Hank Williams Jr.’s remarkable eleven-album collaboration with producer Jimmy Bowen. Embarking on a new chapter, Williams Jr. joined forces with Jim Ed Norman and Barry Beckett, creating six albums together until April 1991. While Norman departed, Beckett and co-producer James Stroud continued their musical journey, delivering two more projects, concluding with the 1993 release, “Out of Left Field.”
The story behind “Ain’t Misbehavin'” illuminates the beauty of musical exploration and the timeless nature of a captivating melody. Hank Williams Jr.’s fearless embrace of diverse genres and his undeniable talent breathed new life into this jazz classic, leaving an indelible mark on the country music landscape.
Album: Five-O
Artist: Hank Williams Jr.
Released: 1985
Lyrics
No one to talk with, all by myself
No one to walk with but
I’m happy on the shelf ain’t misbehavin’
I’m savin’ my love for you
Now I know for certain you’re the one I love
I’m through with flirtin’
Just you I’m dreamin’ of
Ain’t misbehavin’
I’m savin’ my love for you
Like Jack Horner in the corner
Don’t go nowhere, why do I care?
Your kisses are worth waiting for, believe me
I don’t stay out late, I don’t care to go
I’m home about eight, just me and my radio
Ain’t misbehavin’
I’m savin’ my love for you
Like Jack Horner in the corner
Don’t go nowhere, why do I care?
Your kisses are worth waiting for, believe me
I don’t stay out late, I don’t care to go
I’m home about eight, just me and my radio
Ain’t misbehavin’
I’m savin’ my love for you
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