The Honeymoon Song

“The Honeymoon Song” is a romantic ballad written by Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis (who would later become renowned for iconic scores such as “Zorba the Greek“) and British writer William Sansom for the 1959 film “Honeymoon,” directed by Michael Powell.

In the early 1960s, “The Honeymoon Song” gained popularity outside the film context, especially through instrumental and vocal covers. One notable version was by Marino Marini and his Quartet, whose upbeat arrangement helped bring the tune to a broader European audience.

Paul McCartney was fond of the melody, and according to Mark Lewisohn in “The Complete Beatles Chronicle“, The Beatles performed “The Honeymoon Song” regularly between 1960 and 1962, with Paul on lead vocals. They also performed it on their BBC radio show “Pop Go The Beatles” in July 1963. In this stripped-down version, Paul handled the vocals and played the song in a light, breezy style. This performance was later released on the compilation “Live At The BBC” (1994).

Mary Hopkin covered the song in 1969. It was released on her album “Post Card” which was produced by Paul McCartney.

The Honeymoon Song was Marino Marini, an Italian and his backing group. They used to appear on telly and the greatest thing about them was they had a volume pedal! The Honeymoon Song wasn’t a big hit but I liked it, thought it was a nice tune. I was the force behind that, the others thought it was a real soppy idea, which I can see now!

Paul McCartney – From “The Complete Beatles Recording Sessions” by Mark Lewisohn, 1988

This was just nice to do because it’s so catchy. It’s a Greek composition by Mikis Theodroakis, and we tried fo make it bright and sunny.

Mary Hopkin – From New Musical Express, February 22, 1969

Lyrics

Variations

• A Stereo version • From "Post Card (UK version - Stereo)"
• A1 Mono version • From "Post Card (UK version - Mono)"
• A2010 2010 remaster • From "Post Card (2010 remaster)"
• L1 Live version • "Pop Go The Beatles" • Aug 06, 1963 • From "Live At The BBC"
• L1.2013 Live version • "Pop Go The Beatles" • Aug 06, 1963 • From "Live At The BBC (2013 remaster)"

Officially appears on

Bootlegs

Videos

Live performances

“The Honeymoon Song” has been played in 2 concerts.

Latest concerts where “The Honeymoon Song” has been played