Key facts about Ho Hey
The Lumineers’ breakthrough single, "Ho Hey," was released in June 2012 as the second single from their self-titled debut album (2012). Written by band members Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites, the folk-rock anthem became one of the most successful independent-label releases of the 2010s, known for its stomping chorus and mandolin-driven arrangement. It reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained on charts globally for multiple years, establishing The Lumineers as a durable act in modern folk rock.
What is Ho Hey
"Ho Hey" is an upbeat, roots-rock song built on a simple chord progression and prominent stomp-and-clap rhythm. Its call-and-response chorus invites audience participation, which helped drive its popularity at live shows and on streaming platforms. The track features acoustic guitar, mandolin, and light percussion, aligning with The Lumineers’ Americana-inflected folk style. Unlike heavily produced pop singles, its raw, live-like recording contributed to its authenticity and broad appeal across ages and regions.
Release date and commercial performance
Officially released to US adult album alternative radio in June 2012 and to mainstream formats later in 2012, "Ho Hey" gained momentum throughout 2012 and into 2013, fueled by strong streaming and live performance exposure. It peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2013 and achieved multi-platinum certifications in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Its chart longevity demonstrated the crossover appeal of independent folk-rock during the early streaming era.
Chart milestones at a glance
| Region | Peak position | Chart | Date | Source type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3 | Billboard Hot 100 | 2013 | Official chart data |
| Canada | 7 | Canadian Hot 100 | 2013 | Official chart data |
| Australia | 11 | ARIA Singles Chart | 2013 | Official chart data |
| United Kingdom | 22 | UK Singles Chart | 2013 | Official chart data |
| New Zealand | 11 | NZ Singles Chart | 2013 | Official chart data |
Songwriting credits and ownership
"Ho Hey" was written by Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites, the core songwriting duo of The Lumineers. As publishing rights holders, they control the composition, with administration typically handled by their publishing partners. Schultz handles vocals and guitar, while Fraites contributes piano and percussion arrangements. Clarifying credits is important for sample clearance, sync licensing, and royalty distribution across streaming, radio, and television placements.
Cultural impact and live relevance
Since its release, "Ho Hey" has become a staple at sporting events, weddings, and live festivals, thanks to its singalong chorus and minimal production. The song’s accessibility helped The Lumineers secure prominent festival slots and extended touring cycles, reinforcing the band’s reputation for energetic, audience-centric performances. Its sustained streaming numbers and cover versions across platforms illustrate a durable fan connection that extends well beyond its initial radio run.
Context within The Lumineers’ career
Released early in The Lumineers’ major-label era, "Ho Hey" established the band as a viable commercial force and paved the way for subsequent albums and collaborations. The track’s success informed A&R interest in indie-folk sounds and demonstrated the viability of artist-driven storytelling in the mainstream. As the band evolved, "Ho Hey" remained a signature song that continues to introduce new listeners to their catalog year after year.