About the song
Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey”: A Sweet Melody of Love and Loss
Released in 1968, Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey” quickly climbed the charts, becoming an instant classic. This heartfelt ballad, with its simple yet evocative lyrics, has touched the hearts of millions and continues to be a beloved song today.
Goldsboro’s rich, soulful voice paints a vivid picture of love, loss, and cherished memories. The song’s narrative follows a man reflecting on his life with his late wife, whom he affectionately calls “Honey.” Through poignant storytelling, Goldsboro captures the bittersweet nature of love and the enduring impact of a loved one’s absence.
One of the song’s most striking features is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. The lyrics, filled with nostalgia and longing, transport listeners to a simpler time. The imagery of a growing tree, a first snow, and a shared Christmas Eve creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. As the song progresses, the tone shifts to one of sadness as Goldsboro describes the pain of losing his loved one. Yet, even in the midst of grief, there is a sense of hope and peace.
The simplicity of “Honey” is part of its enduring appeal. The melody is both catchy and memorable, and the lyrics are easy to understand and relate to. This accessibility has allowed the song to transcend generations, connecting with listeners of all ages. Moreover, the song’s universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time make it a timeless classic.
Goldsboro’s performance is nothing short of masterful. His emotive vocals convey a deep sense of sincerity and vulnerability. The arrangement is understated, allowing the lyrics and melody to take center stage. The combination of Goldsboro’s voice and the song’s simple beauty creates a powerful and lasting impression.
In conclusion, “Honey” is more than just a popular song; it is a timeless piece of music that has touched the hearts of millions. Through its simple yet evocative lyrics and Goldsboro’s soulful performance, the song captures the essence of love, loss, and the human experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Bobby Goldsboro or discovering his music for the first time, “Honey” is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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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