Bobby Goldsboro – Honey

Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey” is a timeless ballad that has etched its place in the annals of popular music history. Released in 1968, the song quickly ascended to the top of charts worldwide, becoming a defining moment in Goldsboro’s career. Its enduring appeal lies in its raw emotional depth, coupled with a melodic simplicity that resonates deeply with listeners of all ages.

At its core, “Honey” is a poignant reflection on loss and longing. The song’s narrative unfolds through the lens of a heartbroken narrator, grappling with the absence of a beloved companion. Goldsboro’s rich baritone voice conveys a palpable sense of sorrow and yearning, inviting listeners into the depths of his emotional turmoil. The song’s lyrics, characterized by their evocative imagery and relatable themes, have contributed significantly to its enduring popularity.

The song’s structure is masterful. It begins with a gentle, melancholic melody that gradually builds in intensity, culminating in a powerful chorus that serves as the emotional heart of the piece. Goldsboro’s vocal performance is nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to infuse the song with both vulnerability and restraint creates a captivating listening experience.

Beyond its emotional impact, “Honey” also serves as a testament to the songwriting prowess of Bobby Russell. The song’s lyrics are imbued with a poetic quality that elevates it above the realm of mere pop music. Russell’s ability to craft a narrative that is both personal and universal is a testament to his skill as a songwriter.

“Honey” has transcended its era to become a standard in the popular music repertoire. Its impact can be seen in countless subsequent recordings by artists from various genres, attesting to its enduring influence. The song’s ability to evoke such a profound emotional response is a testament to its timeless quality.

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Lyrics

See the tree, how big it’s grown
But friend, it hasn’t been too long
It wasn’t big

I laughed at her and she got mad
The first day that she planted it was just a twig

Then the first snow came
And she ran out to brush the snow away
So it wouldn’t die
Came runnin’ in all excited
Slipped and almost hurt herself
And I laughed ’til I cried

She was always young at heart
Kinda dumb and kinda smart
And I loved her so

And I surprised her with a puppy
Kept me up all Christmas Eve
Two years ago

And it would sure embarrass her
When I came in from working late
‘Cause I would know

That she’d been sittin’ there and cryin’
Over some sad and silly late, late show

And honey, I miss you
And I’m being good
And I’d love to be with you
If only I could

She wrecked the car and she was sad
And so afraid that I’d be mad
But what the heck

Though I pretended hard to be
Guess you could say she saw through me
And hugged my neck

I came home unexpectedly
And caught her cryin’ needlessly
In the middle of the day

And it was in the early spring
When flowers bloom and robins sing
She went away

And honey, I miss you
And I’m being good
And I’d love to be with you
If only I could

One day while I was not at home
While she was there and all alone
The angels came

Now all I have is memories of Honey
And I wake up nights and call her name

Now my life’s an empty stage
Where Honey lived and Honey played
And love grew up

And a small cloud passes overhead
And cries down on the flower bed
That Honey loved

And see the tree how big it’s grown
But friend, it hasn’t been too long
It wasn’t big

I laughed at her and she got mad
The first day that she planted it was just a twig