The Meaning Behind The Song: The Bee Song by Arthur Askey
“The Bee Song,” also known as “Busy Bee,” is a popular novelty song from the 1930s written by Frank Eyton and Harry Gifford. The song gained worldwide popularity following its performance by British comedian, singer, and actor Arthur Askey.
The Bee Song is a light-hearted tune that uses clever wordplay to tell the story of a busy bee. The song is characterized by a catchy melody and upbeat tempo that makes it impossible not to tap one’s foot to the rhythm.
The song’s message is quite simple: bees are busy creatures. However, the way the song conveys this message is charming and memorable. With witty lyrics and a catchy tune, the Bee Song has charmed audiences for over eighty years.
The Lyrics of The Bee Song
Verse One
I’m bringing a load that’s heavy,
I’m bringing a load of lead.
I’m bringing a load to the hive,
A load that’s full of spread.
Chorus
Oh, the bee of the hive,
He’s always so busy,
He flits from a flower just like you and me.
But he’s much more brave, with a soul that is tried,
And 24 hours a day he’s satisfied.
Verse Two
I’m bringing a load that’s light,
A load that’s full of air.
I’m bringing a load to the hive,
A load that’s full of care.
Chorus
Oh, the bee of the hive,
He’s always so busy,
He flits from a flower just like you and me.
But he’s much more brave, with a soul that is tried,
And 24 hours a day he’s satisfied.
The Meaning of the Lyrics
The lyrics of The Bee Song are cleverly written, using puns and wordplay to convey the message that bees are incredibly hardworking creatures. The first verse describes the bee’s ability to carry both heavy and light objects, such as lead and air. The second verse implies that the bee carries a figurative load of care.
The chorus drives home the message that bees are always busy, flitting from flower to flower with bravery and a tried soul. The song emphasizes that bees work 24 hours a day and are always satisfied with their work.
Overall, The Bee Song presents a charming and unique perspective on bees and their importance to the natural world.
The Impact of The Bee Song
The Bee Song was first performed by Arthur Askey on BBC Radio in 1937 and became an instant hit. It soon became one of the most popular novelty songs of the era, cementing Askey’s popularity as a comedian and singer.
The song’s popularity has endured for over 80 years and has been covered by countless artists. The song has also been featured in various movies, television shows, and commercials, and has become a cultural icon.
Aside from its popularity as entertainment, The Bee Song has also helped to raise awareness of the importance of bees in the natural world. Bees are vital to the pollination of crops and the functioning of ecosystems, making their conservation a priority.
The Bee Song FAQs
1. Who wrote The Bee Song?
The Bee Song was written by Frank Eyton and Harry Gifford.
2. Who performed The Bee Song?
The most famous performer of The Bee Song was British comedian, singer, and actor Arthur Askey.
3. When was The Bee Song first performed?
The Bee Song was first performed on BBC Radio by Arthur Askey in 1937.
4. Why is The Bee Song important?
Aside from its entertainment value, The Bee Song has helped to raise awareness of the importance of bees in the natural world, making their conservation a priority.
5. What is the message of The Bee Song?
The message of The Bee Song is that bees are incredibly hardworking creatures who work 24 hours a day and are always satisfied with their work.
6. What is the chorus of The Bee Song?
The chorus of The Bee Song is: “Oh, the bee of the hive, He’s always so busy, He flits from a flower just like you and me. But he’s much more brave, with a soul that is tried, And 24 hours a day he’s satisfied.”
7. Why is Arthur Askey famous?
Arthur Askey was a popular British comedian, singer, and actor who gained fame in the 1930s and 1940s for his comedic performances.
8. How has The Bee Song impacted popular culture?
The Bee Song has become a cultural icon, with its popularity enduring for over 80 years. The song has been covered by countless artists and has been featured in various movies, television shows, and commercials.
9. What is the significance of bees in the natural world?
Bees are vital to the pollination of crops and the functioning of ecosystems, making their conservation a priority.
10. What other songs are similar to The Bee Song?
Other novelty songs from the 1930s and 1940s that are similar in style to The Bee Song include “Three Little Fishes” and “Donkey Serenade.”
11. What are some other popular songs about animals?
Some other popular songs about animals include “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley, and “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves.
12. What is the historical context of The Bee Song?
The Bee Song was written and first performed during a time of economic hardship and political uncertainty in Europe. Its appeal as an upbeat and positive tune may have helped to buoy the spirits of listeners during a difficult time.
