The Musical Legacy of The Honeycombs: ‘Have I The Right?’ and Beyond

Introduction

In the vibrant tapestry of 1960s British music, few songs captured the essence of the era quite like “Have I The Right?” by The Honeycombs. This infectious tune, released in 1964, catapulted the band to stardom and remains an iconic anthem of the swinging 60s. Join us on a journey as we delve into the history of this sensational song and the talented artists behind it.

Did You Know?

• The Honeycombs: This British band, formed in 1963, was known for their unique blend of rock and pop music. They quickly gained popularity with their energetic performances and catchy melodies.
• “Have I The Right?”: This chart-topping single was The Honeycombs’ debut release. It stormed the UK charts, claiming the number one spot in 1964 and even making waves in the United States. The song’s distinctive sound, featuring a prominent use of a hollerin’ drum and honey-sweet vocals, set it apart from its contemporaries.
• Honey Lantree: A remarkable fact about the band is that their drummer, Honey Lantree, was one of the first female drummers in rock history. Her rhythmic prowess added a unique flair to the group’s music and made her an inspiration for aspiring female musicians.
• Legacy: While The Honeycombs are often associated with “Have I The Right?” the band continued to produce music throughout the 1960s. Although they didn’t replicate the massive success of their debut single, their contributions to the era’s music scene are still celebrated today.

Video

Now that you know a bit about the song and the band, let’s take a trip down memory lane and watch the music video of “Have I The Right?” by The Honeycombs:

Lyrics: Have I The Right?

have i the right to hold you?
you know i’ve always told you
that we must never ever part
oh ooh ooh oh

have i the right to kiss you?
you know i’ll always miss you
i’ve loved you from the very start

come right back i just can’t bear it
i’ve got this love and i long to share it
come right back i’ll show my love is strong

have i the right to touch you?
if i could you’d see how much you
send those shivers running down my spine.
ooh ooh

have i the right to thrill you?
you know i’ll wait until you
give me the right to make you mine.