Stanley has stated his admiration and love of Stewart's music numerous times, and that "Hard Luck Woman" was inspired by Rod Stewart, in particular the songs "Maggie May" and "You Wear It Well". While Stewart's music served as a partial inspiration for the song, the nautical themed song "Brandy" by American pop-rock band Looking Glass served as Stanley's main inspiration.
Stanley has repeatedly mentioned his admiration for Stewart's music, stating that "Hard Luck Woman" was inspired by Rod Stewart's songs such as "Maggie May" and "You Wear It Well". However, he also notes that the song "Brandy" by Looking Glass, which has a nautical theme, was the primary source of inspiration.