Who Wrote The Song Hey Joe? Unraveling The Mystery

Hey Joe, a rock and roll anthem, has been covered by countless artists, but who actually penned this iconic tune? At payoffsong.com, we delve into the surprising origins and the numerous hands that shaped this legendary song, exploring how you too can find similar success with your music. Discover the secrets behind creating a hit song and how to capitalize on your musical creations, from music licensing to royalty collection and even landing your song in a commercial. Let’s uncover the fascinating story behind “Hey Joe” and explore ways to achieve your own musical triumph.

1. The Conflicting Claims: Who Really Wrote Hey Joe?

The songwriting credit for “Hey Joe” is a tangled web of claims and counterclaims. Identifying the true author isn’t as simple as checking a record label.

Billy Roberts: The Most Widely Accepted Author

William Moses Roberts Jr., known as Billy Roberts, is often credited as the writer of “Hey Joe.” The common story suggests he composed it possibly in 1956 in an Edinburgh folk club.

Evidence: Many sources attribute the song to Roberts.
Counterclaim: Scottish folk musician Len Partridge said he added to the song, but acknowledged Roberts as the main author.

Niela Miller: A Plagiarism Accusation

Niela Miller, a folk singer and former girlfriend of Billy Roberts, claimed that “Hey Joe” was actually lifted from her song “Baby Please Don’t Go To Town.”

Claim: Miller stated that Roberts stole her melody and changed the lyrics.
Timeline: She wrote “Baby Please Don’t Go To Town” between 1954 and 1955 and claims Roberts learned it from her in 1956.
Support: Folk icon Pete Seeger supported Miller’s claim and offered to testify on her behalf.
Copyright: Miller recorded a demo in 1962, copyrighted in 1964, and released it in 2009 on her Songs of Leaving album.
Niela Miller's Album Cover Featuring 'Baby Please Don't Go To Town' Accusation

Dino Valenti: The Copyright Claimant

Chester William Powers, Jr., also known as Chet Powers or Dino Valenti, was a singer in Quicksilver Messenger Service.

Role: Valenti learned the song from Billy Roberts and copyrighted it in Los Angeles.
Motivation: Some say Valenti copyrighted the song with Roberts’ blessing to help him with financial troubles after a jail stint.

Tim Rose: The Public Domain Advocate

Singer Tim Rose claimed to have learned the song from Vince Martin in 1960 and called his version “Blue Steel .44.”

Claim: Rose asserted the song was a traditional folk song.
Action: He recorded a version in 1966 and claimed copyright as an arrangement of a traditional song.
Evidence: No concrete evidence supports Rose’s claim.

The Leaves: The “Traditional” Credit

When The Leaves first recorded “Hey Joe,” it was credited as Traditional/Public Domain.

Reason: The multiple claims and unclear origins likely led to this designation.

Key Takeaway: The authorship of “Hey Joe” is heavily disputed. The most credible claim points to Billy Roberts, but accusations of plagiarism and copyright claims add complexity to the story.
Billy Roberts Performing 'Hey Joe', the Widely Accepted Author

2. Early Inspirations and Folk Roots of Hey Joe

“Hey Joe” has roots in folk and blues music, with thematic and musical elements similar to earlier songs.

Little Sadie: A Murder Ballad Prototype

“Little Sadie” (also known as “Bad Lee Brown,” “Cocaine Blues,” and other titles) is an early 20th-century ballad about a man on the run after shooting his wife.

Similarities: The song shares a theme of violence and flight with “Hey Joe.”
Recordings: The earliest record dates from 1922. Clarence Ashley recorded “Little Sadie” in 1929.

Hey Joe! (Country Song): A Title Connection

A country song titled “Hey Joe!” written by Boudleaux Bryant and released in 1953 by Carl Smith shares the name but has no clear musical connection.

Significance: The shared title indicates the phrase “Hey Joe” was present in popular music before Roberts’ version.

Folk Music Tradition: Riffing and Reworking

In the pre-sampling era, folk musicians often reworked existing material, creating new songs from familiar chords, ideas, and lyrics.

Context: “Hey Joe” is musically similar to many folk and blues songs.
Roberts’ Shifting Stories: Roberts’ own accounts of the song’s origin have varied.

Key Takeaway: “Hey Joe” draws from earlier folk and blues traditions, sharing themes and musical elements with songs like “Little Sadie.” The folk process of reworking existing material makes it difficult to pinpoint a single, definitive origin.

3. The Leaves: First to Record and Release Hey Joe

Garage rock band The Leaves were the first to record and release “Hey Joe,” bringing it to a wider audience.

Discovery: The Byrds at Ciro’s

The Leaves first heard “Hey Joe” performed by The Byrds at Ciro’s in Los Angeles.

Influence: Dino Valenti and David Crosby’s versions were gaining popularity on the LA scene.

Three Versions: Persistence Pays Off

The Leaves recorded three versions of “Hey Joe” between 1965 and 1966.

First Release: The initial release in November or December 1965 flopped.
Third Time’s the Charm: The third version, produced by Nik Venet and released in May or June 1966, reached number 31 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The Leaves' Album Cover Featuring 'Hey Joe', Their Breakthrough Hit

Other Early Versions: A Rising Tide

Around the time of The Leaves’ releases, other bands also recorded “Hey Joe,” including The Standells, the Surfaris, Love, The Music Machine, and The Byrds.

The Surfaris: Some claim their version dates from 1965, but The Leaves likely released it first.
Love: Included the song on their debut album in January 1966.
The Byrds: Released “Hey Joe (Where You Gonna Go)” on their album Fifth Dimension in July 1966.

Key Takeaway: The Leaves were the first to record and release “Hey Joe,” achieving a Billboard hit. Their success paved the way for other bands to cover the song, contributing to its growing popularity.

4. Love’s Impact: Popularizing Hey Joe in LA Clubs

Love played a significant role in popularizing “Hey Joe” in the Los Angeles club scene, influencing other bands.

Bryan MacLean: The Key Figure

Love’s guitarist, Bryan MacLean, learned the song while working as a roadie for The Byrds and introduced it to Love.

Influence: MacLean’s version of “Hey Joe” became popular in LA clubs.
Punk Edge: Robert Leslie Dean described Love’s version as having a “punk rock” edge, setting it apart from other interpretations.

Love vs. The Byrds: Different Lyrics

Love and The Byrds used slightly different lyrics in their versions, replacing “gun in your hand” with “money in your hand.”

The Byrds’ Version: Called “Hey Joe (Where You Gonna Go),” included on their Fifth Dimension album.
David Crosby’s Role: Crosby wanted to record the song as early as 1964, but his bandmates initially refused.
The Byrds Performing 'Hey Joe' at the Monterey Pop Festival

Johnny Echols’ Claim: The “Correct” Lyrics

Love’s guitarist, Johnny Echols, claimed that Love’s lyrics were the “correct” ones and that he wrote different lyrics for The Leaves.

The “Dirty Trick”: Echols said he wrote different lyrics for The Leaves because they were trying to cover Love’s version.
Original Lyrics: According to Echols, the original lyrics were: “Hey Joe, were you going with that money in your hand… I’m going downtown to buy me a blue steel 44, when I catch up with that woman, she won’t be running no more.”

Jerry Hopkins’ Account: Bryan MacLean’s Reluctance

Love’s manager, Jerry Hopkins, said that Bryan MacLean transcribed the words for The Leaves after initially refusing.

Authorship: The Leaves released the song as Traditional/Public Domain after MacLean refused to reveal the author.

Key Takeaway: Love’s version of “Hey Joe,” driven by Bryan MacLean’s energy and Johnny Echols’ lyrical tweaks, significantly influenced the song’s popularity and evolution in the LA music scene.

5. Jimi Hendrix’s Hey Joe: The Definitive Version

Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of “Hey Joe” is widely regarded as the definitive version, catapulting the song to international fame.

Discovery: New York City, 1966

Jimi Hendrix was performing “Hey Joe” regularly in New York City in 1966 with his band Jimmy James and the Blue Flames.

Arthur Lee’s Influence: According to Arthur Lee, Love’s version turned Hendrix on to the song.
Tim Rose’s Inspiration: Hendrix’s version was slower and partly inspired by Tim Rose’s single.

Chas Chandler’s Discovery: A Life-Changing Moment

Chas Chandler heard Hendrix perform “Hey Joe” live and was so impressed that he signed Hendrix and brought him to England.

Impact: This decision launched Hendrix’s international career.

Recording and Release: London, 1966

Hendrix recorded his version of “Hey Joe” in London on October 23, 1966, and released it on December 16, 1966, with “Stone Free” on the B-side.

UK Success: The song was an instant hit in the UK, peaking at number six in the singles chart in early 1967.
Jimi Hendrix Performing 'Hey Joe' Live in London, 1967

US Release: May 1, 1967

“Hey Joe” was released in the US on May 1, 1967, backed with “51st Anniversary.”

Chart Performance: It failed to chart in the US, but became one of Hendrix’s most famous recordings.

Woodstock: A Legendary Performance

Hendrix closed his performance at Woodstock on August 18, 1969, with a stunning version of “Hey Joe” as his encore.

Significance: This performance solidified “Hey Joe” as a classic rock anthem.

Key Takeaway: Jimi Hendrix’s version of “Hey Joe” is the most iconic and influential, thanks to his unique interpretation and his electrifying performances, particularly at Woodstock.

6. Hey Joe: A Legacy of Covers and Interpretations

“Hey Joe” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, each bringing their own unique style to the song.

Early Covers: Late 1960s

Several artists recorded versions of “Hey Joe” before the end of the 1960s, including:

Cher: Her version reached the Billboard Hot 100 in late 1966.
Johnny Hallyday: Had a Belgian hit with a French language version in 1966.
The Creation: Recorded the song in 1967.
Marmalade: Covered it as the B-side to their “Lovin’ Things” single in 1968, mistakenly believing it was public domain.
Cher's Album Cover Featuring Her Rendition of 'Hey Joe'
Frank Zappa: His song “Flower Punk” on We’re Only In It For The Money was based on “Hey Joe.”
Johnny Rivers and Deep Purple: Also recorded versions of the song.
Wilson Pickett: Reached number 59 with his version in August 1969.

1970s and Beyond: Diverse Interpretations

Artists continued to cover “Hey Joe” in the 1970s and beyond, including:

Patti Smith: Recorded a unique spoken-word intro, recasting the song about kidnapped heiress Patty Hearst.
Soft Cell: Performed the song as part of their 1983 “Hendrix Medley.”
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds: Put their spin on it three years later.
The Lemonheads, Seal, The Offspring, Eddie Murphy, Body Count, Captain Sensible, Robert Plant, Jim Lea, ZZ Top, The Vibrators, and Charlotte Gainsbourg: Have all performed “Hey Joe” in concert or on record.
Patti Smith Performing 'Hey Joe' with a Spoken Word Intro

Key Takeaway: “Hey Joe” has proven to be a versatile song, lending itself to numerous interpretations across various genres and eras, demonstrating its enduring appeal.

7. Key Elements That Make Hey Joe Enduring

Several elements have contributed to the enduring appeal and success of “Hey Joe”:

Simple Chord Progression: The song’s basic F C D G A chord progression is easy to learn and play, making it accessible to many musicians.
Narrative and Mystery: The lyrics tell a story of a man on the run after committing a crime, leaving room for interpretation and intrigue.
Versatility: The song can be adapted to various genres, from folk and rock to punk and even spoken word.
Hendrix’s Influence: Jimi Hendrix’s iconic version elevated the song to legendary status, inspiring countless covers.

8. How Payoffsong.com Can Help You Achieve Musical Success

Inspired by the success and legacy of “Hey Joe”? Here’s how payoffsong.com can assist you in achieving your own musical triumphs:

Music Licensing: Learn how to license your original songs for use in films, TV shows, commercials, and video games.
Royalty Collection: Understand how to collect royalties from various sources, including streaming services, radio airplay, and public performances.
Songwriting Tips: Access resources and tips on writing catchy and commercially viable songs.
Networking: Connect with industry professionals, including music publishers, producers, and licensing agencies.

Address: 1601 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States
Phone: +1 (323) 469-2211
Website: payoffsong.com

9. Case Studies: Successful Song Licensing Examples

Examining real-world examples of successful song licensing can provide valuable insights for aspiring musicians.

Example 1: “Little Sadie” in Film: The use of “Little Sadie” in various films demonstrates the timeless appeal and commercial viability of traditional folk songs.
Example 2: Jimi Hendrix in Advertising: The licensing of Jimi Hendrix’s music, including “Hey Joe,” in commercials showcases the value of iconic recordings.
Example 3: Independent Artists in TV Shows: Many independent artists have found success by licensing their music for use in TV shows, generating both revenue and exposure.

10. Maximizing Your Song’s Potential on Payoffsong.com

To maximize your song’s potential, consider these strategies:

Create High-Quality Recordings: Invest in professional recording and mixing to ensure your songs sound their best.
Optimize Metadata: Properly tag your songs with relevant keywords and information to increase their visibility on licensing platforms.
Network and Collaborate: Connect with other musicians and industry professionals to expand your reach and opportunities.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and opportunities in the music licensing industry.

11. The Legal Aspects of Songwriting and Licensing

Understanding the legal aspects of songwriting and licensing is crucial for protecting your work and maximizing your earnings.

Copyright: Register your songs with the U.S. Copyright Office to protect your ownership rights.
Publishing Agreements: Understand the terms of publishing agreements and how they affect your royalties.
Licensing Agreements: Carefully review licensing agreements to ensure they are fair and protect your interests.

12. Trends in Music Licensing

Staying informed about current trends in music licensing can help you make strategic decisions and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Increased Demand for Indie Music: There is a growing demand for independent music in film, TV, and advertising.
Rise of Music Licensing Platforms: Online platforms are making it easier for artists to license their music and connect with potential buyers.
Focus on Authenticity: Brands are increasingly seeking authentic and unique music that resonates with their target audiences.

13. The Enduring Power of Music Royalties

Music royalties are a crucial source of income for songwriters and musicians. Understanding how royalties work and how to collect them is essential for financial success.

Performance Royalties: Collected when your music is performed publicly, such as on the radio or in a live venue.
Mechanical Royalties: Generated when your music is reproduced, such as on CDs or through streaming services.
Synchronization Royalties: Paid when your music is used in a film, TV show, or commercial.

14. Hey Joe’s Key Lessons for Songwriters

Embrace Folk Traditions: Draw inspiration from folk and blues traditions to create timeless songs.
Innovate and Adapt: Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on existing material.
Understand Copyright: Protect your work by understanding copyright laws and registering your songs.
Network: Network with fellow musicians, songwriters, and producers.
Take Chances: Experiment with new ideas and sounds.

15. Hey Joe and the American Dream

“Hey Joe” embodies aspects of the American Dream, including freedom, opportunity, and the pursuit of success through hard work and talent.

Freedom of Expression: The song’s themes of rebellion and individuality resonate with the American ideal of freedom of expression.
Opportunity: The story of “Hey Joe” demonstrates the potential for a song to achieve widespread success and generate income for its creators.
Hard Work and Talent: Achieving success in the music industry requires both talent and hard work, as exemplified by the artists who have recorded and performed “Hey Joe.”

16. Hey Joe, A Global Cultural Phenomenon

“Hey Joe” has transcended its American roots to become a global cultural phenomenon. The song has been covered by artists from around the world and has been performed in numerous languages. Its themes of love, loss, and violence are universal, making it relatable to audiences across cultures.

17. Building Your Music Brand Like Hey Joe

Building a strong music brand is essential for achieving long-term success in the music industry. Key components include:

Authenticity: Be true to yourself and your musical vision.
Consistency: Maintain a consistent brand identity across all platforms.
Engagement: Engage with your fans and build a loyal following.

18. Music and Monetization

Monetizing music involves generating revenue from various sources, including:

Streaming Platforms: Earn royalties from streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music.
Digital Downloads: Sell your music on platforms like iTunes and Amazon Music.
Merchandise: Sell merchandise, such as T-shirts and posters, to generate additional income.

19. Building a Music Community

Building a strong music community involves connecting with other musicians, songwriters, and industry professionals. This can provide valuable support, collaboration opportunities, and networking opportunities.

20. The Future of Music and Hey Joe’s Influence

The music industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and platforms emerging all the time. “Hey Joe” has influenced the music industry by showing that a song can be interpreted in many different ways.

Artificial Intelligence: AI is transforming music production and distribution.
Virtual Reality: VR is creating new opportunities for immersive music experiences.
Blockchain Technology: Blockchain is revolutionizing the way music royalties are tracked and distributed.

21. Resources for Musicians on Payoffsong.com

Payoffsong.com offers a wealth of resources for musicians, including:

Articles: Read articles on songwriting, music licensing, and music business.
Tutorials: Watch tutorials on music production, mixing, and mastering.
Templates: Download templates for contracts, press releases, and other essential documents.

22. Hey Joe’s place in the History of Rock and Roll

“Hey Joe” occupies a unique place in the history of rock and roll. The song has been covered by numerous artists across multiple genres, helping it to stay relevant with the times.

Influence on Other Artists: See the many artists that have covered this song and hear what they had to say about it.
Cultural impact: See the impact that this song has had on culture from how it has been listened to what it’s about.

23. Music and Passion

For many musicians, music is more than just a career; it’s a passion. To sustain a career in the music industry:

Follow Your Passion: Follow your passion and create music that you love.
Embrace Creativity: Embrace creativity and experiment with new ideas.
Be Persistent: Persist through challenges and never give up on your dreams.

24. The Business of Music

The music industry is a business, and it’s essential for musicians to understand the business aspects of their careers. The success of this song shows us how important it is to stay current.

Contracts and Agreements: Seek legal advice when signing contracts and agreements.
Revenue Streams: Explore multiple revenue streams, including licensing, royalties, and merchandise.
Financial Planning: Develop a financial plan to manage your income and expenses.

25. Hey Joe and the Power of Collaboration

Collaboration can be a powerful tool for musicians, providing opportunities to learn from others, expand their reach, and create unique and innovative music. With many covers, this has proven to be a powerful tool.

Connect with Other Musicians: Network with other musicians, songwriters, and producers.
Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor who can provide guidance and support.
Attend Music Conferences: Attend music conferences and festivals to network with industry professionals.

26. FAQ: Unraveling the Mysteries of Hey Joe

Here are some frequently asked questions about the song “Hey Joe”:

Who is widely credited with writing “Hey Joe”? Billy Roberts is most widely credited with writing “Hey Joe,” though his claim has been disputed.
What is Niela Miller’s claim about “Hey Joe”? Niela Miller claims that Billy Roberts stole the melody and structure from her song “Baby Please Don’t Go To Town.”
How did Dino Valenti get involved with “Hey Joe”? Dino Valenti, also known as Chet Powers, copyrighted “Hey Joe” after learning it from Billy Roberts.
What did Tim Rose claim about the origin of “Hey Joe”? Tim Rose claimed that “Hey Joe” was a traditional folk song, but he never provided solid evidence.
Who was the first band to record and release “Hey Joe”? The Leaves were the first band to record and release “Hey Joe” in 1965.
How many versions of “Hey Joe” did The Leaves record? The Leaves recorded three versions of “Hey Joe” between 1965 and 1966.
What contribution did Love make to the popularity of “Hey Joe”? Love popularized “Hey Joe” in Los Angeles clubs, influencing other bands like The Byrds.
How did Jimi Hendrix discover “Hey Joe”? According to Arthur Lee, Love’s version of “Hey Joe” inspired Jimi Hendrix to perform the song.
When did Jimi Hendrix record his version of “Hey Joe”? Jimi Hendrix recorded his version of “Hey Joe” on October 23, 1966, in London.
Why is Jimi Hendrix’s version considered the definitive version? Jimi Hendrix’s version is considered definitive due to his unique interpretation and electrifying performances, particularly at Woodstock.

27. Call to Action: Start Your Musical Journey Today

Ready to transform your musical dreams into reality? Visit payoffsong.com today to explore licensing opportunities, understand copyright, and connect with a community of passionate music professionals. Whether you’re a songwriter, musician, or industry expert, payoffsong.com is your ultimate resource for navigating the world of music monetization in the USA.