The song's success was unprecedented for a folk track at the time:

The magic of "Ho Hey" lies in its stripped-back production. Eschewing complex layers, the track relies on easygoing guitar chords, a tambourine, and light percussion. Lead singer Wesley Schultz delivers lyrics that resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they were on the outside of a relationship looking in, singing about the longing to be with the right person.

: It gained massive visibility through a trailer for the Oscar-winning film Silver Linings Playbook and television advertising campaigns.