About the song
Bobby Goldsboro’s song “Honey” is a poignant narrative ballad that tugs at the heartstrings with its emotive storytelling and melodic arrangement. Written by Bobby Russell, “Honey” was released by Bobby Goldsboro in 1968 as part of his album of the same name.
The song became a massive commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and staying there for five weeks. Its popularity extended internationally, topping charts in Canada, Australia, and the UK as well. “Honey” struck a chord with listeners due to its touching lyrics and Goldsboro’s heartfelt delivery, resonating particularly with audiences who appreciated narrative-driven songs.
The storyline of “Honey” revolves around a man mourning the loss of his beloved wife, whose death leaves him grappling with grief and longing. The song’s emotional depth is underscored by its gentle orchestration and Goldsboro’s sincere vocals, which convey a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion.
Despite its popularity, “Honey” has been subject to criticism for its sentimentality and melodrama. However, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke strong emotions and connect with listeners on a personal level, reflecting universal themes of love, loss, and longing.
Over the years, “Honey” has become a classic in the realm of pop ballads, securing Bobby Goldsboro’s place in music history. Its success paved the way for Goldsboro’s career as a singer-songwriter, showcasing his talent for crafting songs that resonate with a wide audience.
In summary, Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey” remains a timeless song cherished for its storytelling and emotional impact. Its chart-topping success and enduring popularity attest to its status as a classic ballad that continues to move listeners with its heartfelt narrative and memorable melody.
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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 till 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 workin’ 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 bein’ 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 a 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 bein’ 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
And I laughed at her and she got mad
The first day that she planted it
Was just a twig