About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"Honky Cat" is a spirited and rollicking song by Elton John, released in 1972 as part of his album "Honky Château." This lively track stands out for its infectious groove, catchy melody, and Elton John's dynamic vocal performance, solidifying its place as one of his most beloved hits.
Lyrically, "Honky Cat" tells the story of a protagonist who revels in the carefree lifestyle of a honky cat, a term often used to describe someone who enjoys the lively atmosphere of honky-tonk bars and dance halls. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's adventures, from riding in a Cadillac to dancing the night away, with lines like "When the snows fall, you're found in the South, you're gonna fly away, gonna fly away" capturing the sense of freedom and spontaneity that defines the honky cat's life.
Elton John's vocal delivery on "Honky Cat" is both spirited and soulful, with his dynamic performance capturing the song's energetic rhythm and infectious groove. His voice resonates with warmth and charisma, drawing listeners into the lively world of the honky cat and inviting them to join in the fun.
Musically, "Honky Cat" is characterized by its upbeat tempo, lively piano riff, and infectious horn section. The song's energetic instrumentation and catchy melody make it impossible to resist, with listeners often finding themselves tapping their feet and dancing along to its lively beat.
Beyond its musical qualities, "Honky Cat" also carries a deeper message about the joys of embracing life's adventures and living in the moment. The song celebrates the spirit of spontaneity and the thrill of experiencing new things, inviting listeners to let go of their inhibitions and enjoy the ride.
As one of the standout tracks on "Honky Château," "Honky Cat" remains a fan favorite and a testament to Elton John's enduring talent as a songwriter and performer. Its infectious groove, catchy melody, and dynamic vocals continue to resonate with audiences around the world, making it a cherished part of Elton John's vast musical repertoire.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
When I look back, boy, I must have been green
Bopping in the country, fishing in a stream
Looking for an answer, trying to find a sign
Until I saw your city lights, honey, I was blind
They said, get back, honky cat
Better get back to the woods
Well, I quit those days and my redneck ways
And, mmhm-hm-hm, oh, change is gonna do me good
You better get back, honky cat
Living in the city ain't where it's at
It's like trying to find gold in a silver mine
It's like trying to drink whiskey, oh, from a bottle of wine
Well, I read some books, and I read some magazines
About those high-class ladies down in New Orleans
And all the folks back home, well, said I was a fool
They said, oh, "Believe in the Lord" is the golden rule
They said, get back, honky cat
Better get back to the woods
But I quit those days and my redneck ways
And, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, oh, change is gonna do me good
They said, get back, honky cat
Better get back to the woods
Well, I quit those days and my redneck ways
And, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, change is gonna do me good
They said, stay at home, boy, you gotta tend the farm
Living in the city, boy, is, is going to break your heart
But how can you stay when your heart says no?
How can you stop when your feet say go?
You better get back, honky cat
Better get back to the woods
Well, I quit those days and my redneck ways
And, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, oh, the change is gonna do me good
You better get back, honky cat
Living in the city ain't where it's at
It's like trying to find gold in a silver mine
It's like trying to drink whiskey, oh, from a bottle of wine
Oh, yeah
Get back, honky cat
Get back, honky cat
Get back, woo
Get back, honky cat
Get back, honky cat
Get back, woo
Oh, get back, honky cat
Get back, get back, honky cat, woo
(Oh yeah, redneck ways and, woo)