Bobby Goldsboro’s “Honey,” released in 1968, remains one of the most enduringly popular – and notoriously divisive – songs in pop music history. Goldsboro, an American pop and country singer-songwriter, had already achieved moderate success with songs like “See the Funny Little Clown” and “Little Things” before “Honey” catapulted him to international fame. While “Honey” wasn’t his only hit, it undeniably became his signature song. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 for five weeks and was a major success on country charts as well, cementing Goldsboro’s crossover appeal.
The song tells the sentimental, almost saccharine story of a man deeply grieving the loss of his young wife, nicknamed “Honey.” He recalls idyllic moments spent with her, punctuated by the heartbreaking refrain, “Honey, I miss you and I’m being good.” The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery of a carefree life cut tragically short, explore themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.
However, “Honey” is far from universally loved. While it resonated profoundly with a large segment of the audience, propelling it to chart-topping success and triggering countless tearful moments, it also attracted significant criticism. Many found the sentimentality excessive, the lyrics cloying, and the overall tone maudlin and manipulative. Critics often derided its simplistic arrangement and melodramatic delivery, labeling it “schmaltzy” and even “one of the worst songs ever written.” Despite the mixed reception, “Honey” undeniably struck a chord with listeners, showcasing Goldsboro’s ability to tap into deep emotions and solidifying his place in the popular music landscape of the late 1960s. Its enduring presence in popular culture, whether loved or loathed, speaks to its undeniable impact.