About the song
“Honey Don’t,” penned by Carl Perkins and initially released as the B-side to “Blue Suede Shoes” in 1956, embodies the spirited essence of rockabilly music. This track, a standout on its own merits, has garnered acclaim over the decades, becoming a classic in its own right alongside its more famous counterpart. Bill Dahl of Allmusic hailed it, suggesting that “‘Honey Don’t’ actually outclasses its more celebrated platter-mate in some ways,” a sentiment that underscores its enduring appeal and musical significance.
The genesis of “Honey Don’t” was rooted in Carl Perkins’ creative process and his band’s initial reactions. During a rehearsal with his group, which included the Perkins brothers and W.S. Holland, Carl introduced the song, marked by its distinctive chord choices that diverged from traditional blues progressions. This deviation, particularly the transition to a C7 chord after E, initially met resistance but ultimately became a defining feature of the song’s charm and uniqueness.
The song’s impact extended far beyond its original release. It has been covered by over 20 artists, including The Beatles, Johnny Rivers, and Ronnie Hawkins, attesting to its enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians. The Beatles’ rendition, recorded in 1964, showcased Ringo Starr on lead vocals, making it one of the few songs where he took center stage vocally for the band. The inclusion of playful banter during the instrumental breaks, with Ringo egging on George Harrison’s guitar solos, added a distinct charm to their interpretation.
“Honey Don’t” has also found its way into various films, such as The Prince of Tides, Diner, and Perfect Sisters, further embedding itself in popular culture beyond its musical impact alone.
Throughout its history, “Honey Don’t” has been a testament to Carl Perkins’ songwriting prowess and rockabilly’s enduring appeal. Its lively rhythm, catchy lyrics, and memorable guitar riffs continue to captivate listeners, solidifying its place in the pantheon of rock ‘n’ roll classics. As a song that resonates with both nostalgia and timeless musicality, “Honey Don’t” remains a cherished piece of rock history, celebrated for its influence on the genre and its enduring ability to bring joy to audiences worldwide.
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Lyrics
Well, how can you say you will, when you won’t
You tell me you do, baby, when you don’t?
Let me know, honey, how you feel
Tell the truth now is love real
Ah-hah, oh honey don’t, well honey don’t
Honey don’t, no honey don’t, hey honey don’t
Say you will when you won’t, ah-hah honey don’t
Well, I love you, baby, and you ought to know
I like the way that you wear your clothes
Everything about you is so doggone sweet
You got that sand all over your feet
So ah-hah, hey honey don’t, honey don’t
Well honey don’t, ah-hah honey don’t, honey don’t
Say you will when you won’t, ah-hah honey don’t
Well, sometimes I love you on a Saturday night
Sunday morning you don’t look right
You’ve been out painting the town
Uh huh baby, been stepping around
So ah-hah, hey honey don’t, well honey don’t
Honey don’t, honey don’t, well honey don’t
Say you will when you won’t, ah-hah honey don’t
Well well, honey don’t, oh honey don’t
Yeah honey don’t, honey don’t
Say you will when you won’t, ah-hah honey don’t