About the song
“Darlin’ Be Home Soon” is one of the most memorable songs performed by The Lovin’ Spoonful, a band known for their contributions to the folk rock genre in the 1960s. Written by the group’s lead singer, John Sebastian, this heartfelt ballad was featured in the 1966 film *You’re a Big Boy Now*, directed by Francis Ford Coppola. The song stands out for its emotional depth, capturing the poignant longing of someone awaiting the return of a loved one.
One of the most iconic performances of “Darlin’ Be Home Soon” was when The Lovin’ Spoonful appeared on *The Ed Sullivan Show*, a television program that played a significant role in the careers of many musicians during that era. The show, which aired from 1948 to 1971, was a popular platform that introduced audiences to the biggest acts of the day, and The Lovin’ Spoonful’s performance was no exception. Their live rendition of “Darlin’ Be Home Soon” captivated viewers with its sincerity and showcased the band’s ability to convey deep emotions through their music.
John Sebastian’s lead vocals were tender and evocative, perfectly complementing the gentle instrumentation. The song’s lyrics express a universal theme of love and yearning, making it relatable to a wide audience. The arrangement is simple yet powerful, with a blend of acoustic guitar, keyboards, and soft percussion that allows the melody to shine through without overwhelming the sentiment behind the words.
The live performance on *The Ed Sullivan Show* not only highlighted the band’s musical talent but also their connection with the audience. At a time when television was a primary source of entertainment, such appearances were crucial in cementing a band’s popularity. For many fans, seeing The Lovin’ Spoonful perform “Darlin’ Be Home Soon” on *The Ed Sullivan Show* was a defining moment that added a personal connection to the song.
In the years since its release, “Darlin’ Be Home Soon” has continued to resonate with listeners. It remains a classic example of the gentle, introspective side of the 1960s folk rock movement. The Lovin’ Spoonful’s performance on *The Ed Sullivan Show* is often remembered as one of their most touching moments, demonstrating the enduring appeal of both the song and the band. For fans of The Lovin’ Spoonful and those who appreciate the music of that era, this performance is a cherished piece of musical history.
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Lyrics
Come
And talk of all the things we did today
Here
And laugh about our funny little ways
While we have a few minutes to breathe
Then I know that it’s time you must leave
But, darling, be home soon
I couldn’t bear to wait an extra minute if you dawdled
My darling, be home soon
It’s not just these few hours, but I’ve been waiting since I toddled
For the great relief of having you to talk to
And now
A quarter of my life is almost past
I think I’ve come to see myself at last
And I see that the time spent confused
Was the time that I spent without you
And I feel myself in bloom
So, darling, be home soon
I couldn’t bear to wait an extra minute if you dawdled
My darling, be home soon
It’s not just these few hours, but I’ve been waiting since I toddled
For the great relief of having you to talk to
So, darling
My darling, be home soon
I couldn’t bear to wait an extra minute if you dawdled
My darling, be home soon
It’s not just these few hours, but I’ve been waiting since I toddled
For the great relief of having you to talk to
Go
And beat your crazy head against the sky
Try
And see beyond the houses and your eyes
It’s okay to shoot the moon
Darling be home soon
I couldn’t bear to wait an extra minute if you dawdled
My darling, be home soon
It’s not just these few hours, but I’ve been waiting since I toddled
For the great relief of having you to talk to