Home / Arts and Entertainment / Molly Windley: The Muse Behind 'Hev Yew Gotta Loight Boy'
Molly Windley: The Muse Behind 'Hev Yew Gotta Loight Boy'
22 Jan
Summary
- Molly Bayfield inspired the 1965 novelty hit song 'Hev Yew Gotta Loight, Boy'.
- The song, by the Singing Postman, referred to her as his 'little nicotine gal'.
- Bayfield, who lived in Norfolk, died recently at the age of 92.
A Norfolk woman, Molly Bayfield, who was the muse for the popular 1965 novelty song 'Hev Yew Gotta Loight, Boy', has died at the age of 92. The song's performer, Allan Smethurst, known as the Singing Postman, immortalized Bayfield as his 'little nicotine gal' in the ditty.
Bayfield, who resided in Norfolk throughout her life, shared a casual friendship with Smethurst, which unknowingly led to her being featured in the song. She recalled her surprise upon hearing the tune on the radio while bathing her son, realizing Smethurst had written it about her.
The song, performed with a distinct Norfolk accent, humorously described Bayfield as someone who 'smook like a chimley' and repeatedly asked the question, 'hev yew gotta loight boy?' Bayfield eventually quit smoking after her son's request.
'Hev Yew Gotta Loight, Boy' became the Singing Postman's most recognizable hit, earning an Ivor Novello award in 1966 and briefly outselling The Beatles in Norfolk. Her son shared that Molly enjoyed being remembered through the song, often smiling at its mention.
