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YouTubeBobby Goldsboro: Singer, Songwriter and Artist
In 1968 while Joplin, Hendrix, the Doors and Jefferson Airplane were singing about sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll, Bobby Goldsboro was singing about “Honey.” After a career in which he sold more than 35 million records, hosted a national TV show, wrote six best-selling children’s books and produced a national PBS show, you’d think the almost 85 year old Goldsboro would be winding down. Think again.
Early Life of Bobby Goldsboro
Bobby Goldsboro was born in the small town of Marianna, Florida. Growing up in a modest setting, he discovered a love for music at an early age. By the time he was a teenager, he was already playing guitar and dreaming about a life in the spotlight. After high school, Bobby quickly found himself drawn more to music than academics. That passion led him to join The Webs—the first real stepping stone to his career.
Touring with Roy Orbison
The Webs were talented enough to catch the attention of rock legend Roy Orbison. In ’62, Orbison invited them to back him on tour. Bobby suddenly found himself on the road with one of the most iconic voices in rock history, gaining invaluable experience. For two years, he traveled with Orbison, honing his skills and learning the ins and outs of the music business. But Bobby wasn’t content just to play in the background—he had stories and songs of his own to share.
Bobby Goldsboro’s First Hit
In 1964, Bobby launched his solo career, and his very first single, “See the Funny Little Clown,” became a hit. The song shot into the Top 10 and introduced his unique, heartfelt vocal style to the world. More singles followed—“Little Things,” “It’s Too Late,” and others—that proved he wasn’t a one-song wonder. Bobby was carving out a reputation as a singer who could make listeners feel every word he sang.
The Global Success of “Honey”
Everything changed in ’68 with the release of “Honey.” The emotional ballad tells the story of a man grieving the loss of his wife. Goldsboro’s tender delivery turned it into a cultural phenomenon. The song spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the decade’s best-selling singles, topping charts worldwide. Love it or find it overly sentimental, “Honey” defined Bobby Goldsboro’s career and remains his signature song.
More Hits and Fan Faves
Though “Honey” was his biggest success, Bobby continued to deliver memorable music. Songs like “Summer (The First Time)” became a huge favourite in the UK, while “Watching Scotty Grow” touched audiences with its tender celebration of fatherhood. These tracks showcased his versatility, blending country, pop, and folk influences.
Bobby Goldsboro on TV
During the ’70s, Bobby expanded his career beyond the recording studio. He became the host of The Bobby Goldsboro Show, a syndicated musical variety program that ran for several years. It highlighted his warmth, charm, and sense of humour—qualities that endeared him to audiences far beyond his music.
Reinventing Himself as an Artist
As the ’80s rolled in, Bobby gradually stepped away from the spotlight of hit records and touring. He turned his attention to painting, creating detailed wildlife and landscape art that quickly gained recognition. He also ventured into children’s programming, producing the animated series The Swamp Critters of Lost Lagoon. It was a family-friendly show that introduced his work to younger generations.
Where is Bobby Goldsboro Today?
Today, Bobby Goldsboro may no longer dominate the charts, but his influence is undeniable. He continues to paint, create, and inspire, while fans old and new revisit his music with appreciation. His career is a reminder that creativity comes in many forms and that an artist’s legacy isn’t defined by a single moment, but by a lifetime of work.
