Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey,” released in 1968, is a quintessential example of the “tearjerker” genre that defined a certain era of popular music. Goldsboro, an American pop and country singer-songwriter, had already achieved considerable success with hits like “See the Funny Little Clown” before “Honey” catapulted him to international fame. Beyond his singing career, Goldsboro also hosted the children’s television show “The Bobby Goldsboro Show” in the 1970s, showcasing his multi-faceted talents.
“Honey” was a massive commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart for five weeks and also reaching number one on the Hot Country Singles chart. Its widespread popularity earned it gold certification and cemented Goldsboro’s place in musical history. The song’s chart dominance reflected its ability to resonate deeply with listeners, although not always for the best reasons.
The song tells the story of a man reminiscing about his deceased wife, Honey, and their life together. It’s a narrative of simple joys, like planting an oak tree, and lighthearted anecdotes filled with Honey’s childlike innocence and occasional clumsiness. The tragic climax centers around Honey’s untimely death, heavily implied to be from an animal-related accident, leaving the narrator heartbroken and dwelling on his memories.
Upon its release, “Honey” was met with a mixed reception. While it resonated with a large segment of the public, generating immense emotional reactions and solidifying its place as a pop culture phenomenon, it also faced criticism for its sentimental, almost melodramatic, approach to grief. Many found the song overly saccharine and manipulative, while others embraced its poignant portrayal of love and loss. Despite the differing opinions, “Honey” undeniably left a lasting impression on the music landscape of the late 1960s and continues to be a talking point today, sparking debate about its artistic merit and emotional impact.