The article selects four notable pop and rock songs with “Darling”, or a variation of it, in their titles, presenting them as affectionate but stylistically varied examples from major artists. It highlights how the shared term of endearment supports songs ranging from wistful longing to soulful devotion and comic relationship frustration.

– The Lovin’ Spoonful’s “Darling Be Home Soon” (1966) is a baroque-pop song by John Sebastian, originally featured in an early Francis Ford Coppola film, about a lover hoping for a partner’s return.
– The Beach Boys’ “Darlin’”, from 1967’s *Wild Honey*, was written by Brian Wilson with Mike Love, nearly given to Three Dog Night, and features Carl Wilson’s soulful lead vocal.
– The Beatles’ “Oh! Darling”, on *Abbey Road*, was written by Paul McCartney, who recorded its vocal late at night to achieve a raw, strained delivery.
– Bruce Springsteen’s “Sherry Darling”, from *The River*, uses humour and an energetic E Street Band performance to depict a man frustrated by his girlfriend’s close bond with her mother.