Medley: Here Come de Honey Man / Crab Man / Oh, Dey’s So Fresh and Fine

Song Meaning

This medley paints a vivid picture of street vendors hawking their wares with infectious enthusiasm. The "honey man" is presented as a purveyor of sweetness, his product "honey in the comb" offered at a bargain. The repetition of "Here comes the honey man" and "Yes sir" creates a rhythmic, almost chant-like invitation, drawing the listener into the scene. The "crab man" shifts the focus to savory offerings, specifically "devil crabs," which he emphatically states are the "food I sell." His sales pitch is direct, linking the food to the customer's "pocket book," suggesting a keen awareness of value and affordability. The insistent repetition of "devil crabs" and the phrase "I'm talkin' about" underscores his passion for his product and his trade. The final section, "Oh, Dey's So Fresh and Fine," introduces the simple, pure appeal of fresh produce, specifically strawberries. The imagery of being "just off the vine" evokes immediate freshness and natural goodness. The repeated, almost questioning "Strawberry?" adds a touch of playful curiosity, inviting the listener to savor the simple delight of the fruit. What makes this medley so effective is its unpretentious celebration of everyday commerce and simple pleasures. The distinct vocal styles of Fitzgerald and Armstrong, combined with the repetitive, almost hypnotic lyrical structures, create a palpable sense of lively market atmosphere. It's a snapshot of community and sustenance, where the joy is in the selling and the savoring.