Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey,” released in 1968, is a poignant ballad that resonated deeply with audiences, cementing its place as a classic of the era. Goldsboro, an American pop and country singer-songwriter, was already a successful artist, but “Honey” catapulted him to international fame.
The song, written by Bobby Russell, tells the story of a man reflecting on his life with his deceased wife, Honey. It paints a bittersweet picture of their relationship, filled with everyday moments and small gestures of love, now viewed through the lens of profound loss. The lyrics are simple yet evocative, capturing the intimacy and tenderness of their bond, and the raw, aching grief of the narrator. The use of direct address, with the narrator speaking directly to Honey, creates a powerful sense of immediacy and vulnerability.
“Honey” topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for five weeks, becoming the biggest hit of Goldsboro’s career. It also reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and achieved significant success internationally. The song received a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year.
The public response to “Honey” was immense, with many listeners deeply moved by its emotional honesty. It became a popular choice for dedications and resonated particularly with those who had experienced loss. However, the song also garnered some criticism for its sentimentality, with some finding it overly saccharine. Despite this, its enduring popularity and chart success demonstrate its undeniable impact. “Honey” remains a quintessential example of a heartfelt ballad that captured the emotional landscape of its time, showcasing Goldsboro’s vocal talent and the power of a simple, yet profoundly moving, story. The Song triggered also a trend of popular tear-jerkers.