About the song
Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless ballad that has touched the hearts of millions worldwide. Released in 1968, this sentimental tune climbed to the top of the charts, becoming one of the most beloved and enduring songs of the era. But what is it about this particular track that has resonated so deeply with listeners for decades?
At its core, “Honey” is a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the enduring power of memory. The song’s lyrics, penned by Bobby Russell, paint a vivid picture of a man grieving the loss of his wife. Russell drew inspiration from a simple, growing tree in his front yard, using it as a metaphor for the passage of time and the permanence of love. The understated elegance of the lyrics, combined with Goldsboro’s soulful vocals, creates a deeply moving and emotionally resonant listening experience.
The song’s journey to commercial success is as fascinating as its lyrics. Originally written and recorded by Bob Shane of The Kingston Trio, “Honey” was later brought to the attention of Goldsboro. The country singer, known for his heartfelt ballads, saw the potential in the song and recorded his own version. Goldsboro’s interpretation, with its lush arrangements and emotive delivery, proved to be the definitive version, catapulting him to international stardom.
One of the most intriguing aspects of “Honey”‘s story is the collaboration between Russell and Goldsboro. The two artists worked together to create a version of the song that would resonate with audiences on a deep emotional level. The result was a timeless classic that continues to be cherished by music lovers around the world.
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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