From Studio to Tearjerker: Behind “Honey” by Bobby Goldsboro

“Honey” (also known as “Honey (I Miss You)”) is a deeply emotional country-pop ballad written by Bobby Russell and delivered by Bobby Goldsboro. Released in February 1968, it tells the story of a man mourning his late wife through tender memories and vivid snapshots of love and loss
The song opens with the narrator gazing at a tree his wife planted when it was just a twig—a metaphor for the life they built together. In a poignant twist, the listener realizes that his love has passed, and he’s left with sorrowful memories:

“One day when I was not at home / While she was there all alone / The angels came.”
This heartbreaking reveal makes “Honey” a signature of emotional storytelling in music

𝐁𝐨𝐛𝐛𝐲 𝐆𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐨 – 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲

Massive Chart Success: The song soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for five weeks, topped both the Country and Adult Contemporary charts, and became the top-selling single globally in 1968, even outpacing Hey Jude

One-Take Magic: Goldsboro recorded it in a single take at RCA Studio B in Nashville, capturing raw emotion that resonated deeply with listeners

Fastest-Selling UA Single: It earned Gold status in just four weeks and was the fastest-selling record in United Artists’ first ten years

Mixed Legacy: While beloved by many, “Honey” has also earned criticism over time for its intensely sentimental tone—some have labeled it among the most melodramatic songs ever
Honey remains a powerful portrait of love and grief. Its simple yet moving narrative, gentle melody, and heartfelt performance made it unforgettable. Despite—and perhaps because of—its emotional potency, it still stirs listeners—whether in tears or nostalgia.

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