Introduction
Hank Williams’ “Move It On Over”: A Dog Day Afternoon (or Maybe Not)
Hank Williams’ 1947 single, “Move It On Over,” might sound like a lighthearted novelty song on first listen. The lyrics depict a narrator pleading with their dog to scootch over and make some room on the bed. However, the song’s origins hold a deeper – and perhaps more relatable – story.
While the truth remains fuzzy, some accounts suggest the inspiration was quite literal. Williams’ wife, Audrey, who also served as his manager, was known to lock him out of the house after a night of carousing. “Move It On Over” could then be seen as a humorous – albeit slightly self-deprecating – portrayal of marital spats and the humble plea for forgiveness.
Beyond its personal connection to Williams, “Move It On Over” holds a significant place in country music history. Released during his first recording session for MGM, it was his first major hit, reaching number four on the Billboard juke box charts. The song’s success not only brought him financial security for the first time, but it also showcased his ability to weave relatable themes of everyday life, even those tinged with marital woes, into catchy country tunes.
“Move It On Over” also transcended genre. The song’s driving rhythm and bluesy melody, courtesy of Red Foley’s backing band (Nashville session men weren’t a thing yet), laid the groundwork for the rock and roll that would explode a decade later. Artists like George Thorogood and the Destroyers even covered the song in the 1970s, proving its lasting appeal.
So, next time you hear “Move It On Over,” remember, it’s more than just a man asking his dog to move. It’s a glimpse into the personal life of a country legend, a marker in the evolution of country music, and a testament to the universality of marital squabbles (even if the spouse in question has four legs and a wagging tail).