Introduction:

At first glance, “Honey”, released in 1967 by the soft-spoken singer Bobby Goldsboro, might appear as a simple ballad of a lovesick man yearning for his partner. However, beneath its seemingly straightforward lyrics lies a song that has transcended its time, resonating with listeners across generations for its relatable emotions and timeless message of commitment.

Composed by Bobby Russell, “Honey” wasn’t originally intended for Goldsboro. Initially, Russell produced a demo with Bob Shane, a member of the folk group The Kingston Trio. However, upon hearing the song, Goldsboro recognized its potential and recorded his own version, which quickly became a major hit.

“Honey” climbed the Billboard Hot 100 chart, reaching number one in 1968. Its success wasn’t limited to the country music charts, where Goldsboro was a fixture. The song’s relatable theme and Goldsboro’s sincere vocals appealed to a wider audience, blurring genre lines and solidifying his place as a crossover artist.

While the song expresses a man’s longing for his absent partner, it delves deeper than mere physical separation. The lyrics detail the protagonist’s efforts to maintain normalcy despite his loneliness, highlighting the emotional toll of missing someone dearly. Lines like “And I surprised her with a puppy kept me up all Christmas Eve two years ago” showcase his attempts to distract himself with memories and positive experiences.

“Honey” stands out in the landscape of 1960s country music, a genre often dominated by themes of machismo and self-reliance. Goldsboro’s portrayal of vulnerability and his willingness to express his emotions resonated with listeners, particularly men who might not have felt comfortable expressing such feelings openly.

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“Honey” continues to be a beloved classic. Its inclusion in films and television shows, as well as its enduring popularity at weddings and special occasions, speaks to the song’s enduring appeal. Goldsboro’s heartfelt rendition and the song’s relatable message ensure its place as a timeless treasure in the world of popular music.

“Honey” transcends the boundaries of a love song for a specific person. It’s an invitation to appreciate the value of connection in our lives. As Bobby Goldsboro’s voice carries you through the melody, remember, the human need for love and companionship is universal. Let this song inspire you to cherish the connections you have and embrace the vulnerability that comes with loving someone deeply.

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Lyrics:

See the tree, how big it’s grownBut friend it hasn’t been too longIt wasn’t bigI laughed at her and she got mad,The first day that she planted itWas just a twigThen the first snow came and she ran outTo brush the snow awaySo it wouldn’t dieCame runnin’ in all excitedSlipped and almost hurt herselfAnd I laughed till I cried

She was always young at heartKinda dumb and kinda smartAnd I loved her soAnd I surprised her with a puppyKept me up all Christmas Eve two years agoAnd it would sure embarrass herWhen I came in from workin’ late‘Cause I would knowThat she’d been sittin’ there and cryin’Over some sad and silly late, late show

And honey, I miss you and I’m bein’ goodAnd I’d love to be with you if only I could

She wrecked the car and she was sadAnd so afraid that I’d be madBut what the heckThough I pretended hard to beGuess you could say she saw through meAnd hugged my neckI came home unexpectedlyAnd caught her cryin’ needlesslyIn the middle of a dayAnd it was in the early springWhen flowers bloom and robins singShe went away

And honey, I miss you and I’m bein’ goodAnd I’d love to be with you if only I could

One day while I was not at homeWhile she was there and all aloneThe angels cameNow all I have is memories of honeyAnd I wake up nights and call her nameNow my life’s an empty stageWhere honey lived and honey playedAnd love grew upAnd a small cloud passes overheadAnd cries down on the flower bedThat honey loved

And see the tree how big it’s grownBut friend it hasn’t been too longIt wasn’t bigAnd I laughed at her and she got madThe first day that she planted itWas just a twig