About the song
“Sugar Bush,” a timeless classic first composed by Fred Michel in 1930, has etched itself into the annals of music history with its charming melody and nostalgic lyrics. Originally a traditional South African song titled “Suikerbossie” in Afrikaans, the tune underwent an English translation by Josef Marais, opening it up to broader audiences beyond its origins.
Fred Michel’s decision to sell the song’s rights to Polliacks for a modest sum proved pivotal, as “Sugar Bush” eventually found its way into the hearts of listeners worldwide. Its popularity soared with notable renditions, notably the enchanting duet performed by Doris Day and Frankie Laine. This rendition, arguably the most famous, gained significant traction, even earning a spot on the inaugural UK Singles Chart in November 1952. Peaking at number 8, the song enjoyed an eight-week presence on the charts, solidifying its status as a beloved hit of its era.
The enduring appeal of “Sugar Bush” also manifested in other interpretations, including a rendition by South African vocalist Eve Boswell, further cementing its international reach and cultural resonance. Boswell’s rendition, recorded in the United Kingdom, added yet another layer to the song’s diverse musical journey.
The song’s legacy continues to thrive, highlighted by its inclusion in various music compilations and its enduring popularity in the collective memory of music enthusiasts. “Sugar Bush” not only represents a bridge between cultures through its transformation from a South African folk tune to a beloved English-language classic but also stands as a testament to the timeless allure of its melody and lyrics. As listeners continue to rediscover and appreciate its melodic charm, “Sugar Bush” remains a cherished piece of musical history, treasured for generations to come.
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Lyrics
Oh, we never not gonna go home
We won’t go, we won’t go
Oh, we never not gonna go phone
‘Cause mother isn’t home
Oh, sugarbush, I love you so
I will never let you go
So, don’t you let your mother know
Sugarbush, I love you so
Sugarbush, what can I do
Mother’s not so pleased with you
Promise me you will be true
And I’ll come along with you
Oh, we never not gonna go home
We won’t go, we won’t go
Oh, we never not gonna go phone
‘Cause mother isn’t home
Sugarbush, come dance with me
And let the other fellas be
Just dance the polka merrily
Sugarbush, come dance with me
Oh, we never not gonna go home
We won’t go, we won’t go
Oh, we never not gonna go phone
‘Cause mother isn’t home
Oh, chocolate, you are so sweet
Yes, yes you, I’d like to eat
If I do, oh, what a treat
Chocolate, you are so sweet
Oh, sugarbush, I love you so
And I will never let you go
Now, don’t you let my mother know
Sugarbush, I love you so
Sugarbush, I love you so