Honeysuckle Blue

The song "Honeysuckle Blue" by Drivin' N' Cryin' from their 1989 album Mystery Road carries a poignant backstory rooted in real-life observation. According to lead singer Kevn Kinney, the song was inspired by a 14-year-old boy he saw begging on the streets outside a New York studio in the 1980s. During that era, many teenagers were squatting in abandoned hotels, and Kinney was struck by the boy's plight, wondering if he had ever seen natural wonders like mountains. This imagery of a lost youth searching for something beyond the urban struggle is woven into the song’s lyrics, which reference the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Chattahoochee River, evoking a longing for escape and connection to nature. The song’s Southern rock ballad style, described by reviewer Joseph Kyle as sounding like it should have been a major hit, captures this blend of hope and despair, making it a live staple for the band’s performances.

Another layer of trivia comes from the song’s recording context. Mystery Road, recorded at Soundscape Studios in Atlanta, was initially set to be produced by R.E.M.’s Peter Buck, a friend of the band. They even recorded demos together, but Island Records opted for producer Scott McPherson instead. Some of these Buck-produced demos, including one for "Honeysuckle Blue," were later included in a 2017 expanded edition of the album, offering fans a glimpse into the song’s early evolution. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its covers by artists like Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, and its frequent inclusion in the band’s setlists, such as a notable performance at Atlanta’s Variety Playhouse in 2019, showcasing its emotional resonance with audiences.

Drivin' N' Cryin' began in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1985, sparked by the creative spark of Kevn Kinney, who had relocated from Milwaukee. By day, Kinney worked at a sewage treatment plant, but by night, he played folk music, honing his craft in Atlanta’s vibrant music scene. His chance meeting with Frank French at Dragon Path Music studio led to late-night songwriting sessions, sometimes while working at French’s shop, Far East Futon Company. Kinney then teamed up with bassist Tim Nielsen, previously of the Nightporters, and drummer Paul Lenz. The band’s name, drawn from one of Kinney’s songs, reflected their dual musical directions: hard-driving rock and emotive, crying ballads. Their early gigs at Atlanta’s 688 Club built a loyal following, leading to a deal with 688 Records and their debut album, Scarred But Smarter, in 1986. This momentum caught the attention of Island Records, setting the stage for Mystery Road and their rise in the Southern rock scene.

The band has maintained a strong online presence, connecting with fans through various platforms. Their official website, www.drivinncryin.com, offers tour dates, music, and merchandise. On Facebook, they share updates about performances and new releases, while their Instagram account features behind-the-scenes photos and concert clips. Their X account engages fans with tour announcements and interactions, such as Kevn Kinney’s 2019 AMA on Reddit, where he discussed the band’s history and latest album. Fans also gather on dedicated spaces like the Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ Fan Club on Facebook, where enthusiasts share concert memories and rare memorabilia. Additionally, Kevn Kinney’s personal site, www.kevnkinney.com, provides insights into his solo work, complementing the band’s fan-driven community.