Growing up, my grandpa was more than just a family member; he was my confidant, my storyteller, and my greatest supporter. The memories we created together—whether it was fishing at dawn, sharing ice cream on a hot summer day, or listening to his tales of adventure—are woven into the very fabric of my childhood.
Music has a unique way of capturing these cherished moments, and there’s a special place in my heart for songs that celebrate the bond between grandfathers and their grandchildren.
In this playlist, I’ve curated a list of 18 songs that pay tribute to grandpas everywhere. These tracks evoke nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of the wisdom, love, and laughter that our grandfathers bring into our lives.
Contents
- 1. “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout The Good Old Days)” by The Judds
- 2. “Grandpa Told Me So” by Kenny Chesney
- 3. “Grandpa’s Groove” by Parov Stelar and AronChupa
- 4. “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” by Justin Moore
- 5. “Granddaddy’s Chair” by Kane Brown
- 6. “Grandfather” by Stephen Lynch
- 7. “The Grandpa Song” by Cody Johnson
- 8. “The Rocket That Grandpa Rode” by Jimmy Buffett
- 9. “He Walked On Water” by Randy Travis
- 10. “That’s What Grandpas Do” by Gord Bamford
- 11. “Grandpa” by Justin Moore
- 12. “They Don’t Make Em’ Like That Anymore” by Jason Blaine
- 13. “The Grandpa That I Know” by Patty Loveless
- 14. “Immigrant Eyes” by Willie Nelson
- 15. “Grandfather’s Grandson” by John Baumann
- 16. “Granddaddy’s Song” by Kyle Bennett Band
- 17. “In Color” by Jamey Johnson
- 18. “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” by Riley Green
- 19. “I’m My Own Grandpa” by Willie Nelson
- 20. “Afire Love” by Ed Sheeran
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
1. “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout The Good Old Days)” by The Judds
Released in January 1986, “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout The Good Old Days)” by The Judds is a nostalgic country song that reflects on the perceived simplicity and moral clarity of the past.
Written by Jamie O’Hara, the song was a major hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
The lyrics express a longing for a time when promises were kept, families prayed together, and fathers stayed with their families. The song’s emotional appeal lies in its questioning of whether these values truly existed or are merely idealized memories.
This song resonates with listeners who yearn for a return to these “good old days” and was awarded a Grammy for both the Judds and O’Hara in 1987.
2. “Grandpa Told Me So” by Kenny Chesney
“Grandpa Told Me So” is a heartfelt song by Kenny Chesney, released in November 1995 as part of his album All I Need to Know.
Written by Mark Alan Springer and James Dean Hicks, the song peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
The narrative revolves around the wisdom imparted by the narrator’s grandfather, covering life lessons from nature to personal resilience. The song poignantly describes the narrator’s struggle to keep his promise not to cry upon his grandfather’s death, highlighting the deep emotional bond and the enduring impact of his grandfather’s teachings.
This song captures the essence of generational wisdom and the emotional journey of coping with loss.
3. “Grandpa’s Groove” by Parov Stelar and AronChupa
“Grandpa’s Groove” is a lively and upbeat track by Parov Stelar featuring AronChupa, released in 2016. The song falls under the genre of electro swing, blending modern electronic beats with vintage swing music elements.
The lyrics and music video tell the story of an elderly man who, despite his age, still possesses a vibrant and youthful spirit. The narrative revolves around the character Santiago, who returns home after a series of unsuccessful fishing trips and is celebrated for his resilience and groove.
The song’s catchy rhythm and playful energy celebrate the timeless spirit and enduring zest for life that can be found in grandfathers, making it a fun and uplifting addition to any playlist dedicated to grandpas.
4. “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” by Justin Moore
Released in February 2011, “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” by Justin Moore is a touching ballad that explores the theme of longing to reconnect with deceased loved ones.
Written by Dallas Davidson, Rob Hatch, and Brett Jones, the song imagines a scenario where the narrator could visit Heaven to spend time with family members and friends who have passed away, including his grandfather.
The song is deeply personal for Moore, as it serves as a tribute to his own grandfather. It resonated with many listeners, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning a double platinum certification.
5. “Granddaddy’s Chair” by Kane Brown
“Granddaddy’s Chair” is a deeply personal and nostalgic song by Kane Brown, featured on his debut album released in December 2016. The song, co-written by Brown, Blair Daly, and Troy Verges, reflects on the singer’s cherished memories with his grandfather.
The lyrics paint vivid pictures of Brown’s childhood, such as playing rodeo games and the warmth of his granddad’s rocking chair. The chorus expresses Brown’s aspiration to embody the qualities of his grandfather, who was “quick to love and slow to anger” and never met a stranger.
The song is a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather’s enduring influence and the legacy of love and wisdom he left behind.
6. “Grandfather” by Stephen Lynch
Stephen Lynch’s “Grandfather” is a satirical and darkly humorous song that contrasts sharply with traditional sentimental songs about grandparents.
The lyrics revolve around the narrator’s anticipation of inheriting wealth upon his grandfather’s death. Rather than expressing love or admiration, the song humorously exaggerates the narrator’s impatience and financial motivations, making light of a typically somber subject.
With lines like “I’ll scream and I’ll yell ‘Cause I’ll be fuckin’ rich as hell,” Lynch uses shock value and irony to explore themes of greed and family dynamics in a way that is both provocative and comedic.
7. “The Grandpa Song” by Cody Johnson
Cody Johnson’s “The Grandpa Song,” from his 2011 album A Different Day, is a reflective and heartfelt tribute to his late grandfather.
The song’s lyrics express Johnson’s longing to share his life achievements and contemporary issues with his granddad, such as the price of gas and societal changes.
The chorus nostalgically imagines his grandfather’s potential reactions to modern-day America, lamenting the loss of old-fashioned values and wisdom.
Johnson’s admiration for his grandfather is evident as he wishes he could write him in as a presidential candidate, symbolizing his belief in his granddad’s integrity and character.
8. “The Rocket That Grandpa Rode” by Jimmy Buffett
“The Rocket That Grandpa Rode” by Jimmy Buffett is a tribute to Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, who Buffett affectionately refers to as “Grandpa.”
The song honors Armstrong’s legacy and the monumental achievement of the Apollo 11 mission. Buffett’s lyrics celebrate the spirit of exploration and the inspiration that Armstrong’s journey to the moon continues to provide.
The song encapsulates a sense of pride and wonder, reflecting on the historical significance of Armstrong’s “rocket ride” and its lasting impact on future generations.
9. “He Walked On Water” by Randy Travis
“He Walked On Water,” written by Allen Shamblin and performed by Randy Travis, is a poignant ballad released in April 1990.
The song is a tribute to the narrator’s great-grandfather, whom he idolized as a child. The lyrics recount the admiration and almost mythical perception the narrator had of his great-grandfather, a former cowboy.
The song captures the innocence and reverence of childhood, where the great-grandfather’s stories and presence seemed larger than life.
It was a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and No. 1 on Canada’s RPM country chart.
10. “That’s What Grandpas Do” by Gord Bamford
Gord Bamford’s “That’s What Grandpas Do” is a heartfelt tribute to the special role grandfathers play in their grandchildren’s lives.
The song celebrates the wisdom, love, and guidance that grandfathers provide, highlighting the significance of shared moments and the lasting impact of their presence.
Bamford’s lyrics emphasize the nurturing and supportive nature of grandpas, making it a touching homage to the cherished memories and life lessons they impart.
11. “Grandpa” by Justin Moore
Justin Moore’s “Grandpa” is a reflective song that honors the values and lessons passed down from his grandfather.
The lyrics emphasize the importance of family, hard work, and integrity, celebrating the wisdom and love imparted by his grandfather.
Moore’s song is a touching tribute to the guiding role of grandfathers, showcasing the profound influence they have on their grandchildren’s lives.
12. “They Don’t Make Em’ Like That Anymore” by Jason Blaine
“They Don’t Make Em’ Like That Anymore” by Jason Blaine is a song inspired by the love story of his grandparents, Harvey and Marilyn Rutz.
The song reflects on the old-fashioned values and character of Blaine’s grandfather, celebrating his unique qualities and the heroic generation he represents.
The lyrics paint a picture of a man who combs his hair like Elvis, pays cash for everything, and embodies a bygone era’s integrity and strength.
Blaine’s song is a heartfelt tribute to his grandparents’ enduring love and the cherished memories they created.
13. “The Grandpa That I Know” by Patty Loveless
“The Grandpa That I Know” by Patty Loveless is a heartfelt song that captures the innocence and admiration of a child for their grandfather.
The lyrics describe a young girl’s experiences and emotions as she prepares for a special occasion, feeling discomfort in her new shoes and lace collar.
Despite these minor grievances, the song emphasizes the warmth and safety she feels with her grandfather.
The narrative paints a vivid picture of familial love and the comforting presence of a grandparent, highlighting the simple yet profound bond shared between them.
14. “Immigrant Eyes” by Willie Nelson
“Immigrant Eyes,” performed by Willie Nelson, is a poignant song that reflects on the immigrant experience in America.
The song, originally written by Guy Clark and Roger Murrah, tells the story of the narrator’s grandfather who arrived in the United States through Ellis Island. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and respect for the sacrifices and dreams of past generations who sought a better life.
Nelson’s rendition is accompanied by a video that features archival footage of immigrants arriving in America, enhancing the song’s emotional impact and historical significance.
15. “Grandfather’s Grandson” by John Baumann
John Baumann’s “Grandfather’s Grandson” is a song that explores themes of heritage and familial legacy.
The lyrics describe the narrator’s connection to his South Texas roots and the influence of his grandfather’s hardworking ethos.
The song reflects on the values and traditions passed down through generations, emphasizing the narrator’s pride in being his grandfather’s grandson.
Baumann’s storytelling captures the essence of familial bonds and the enduring impact of a grandfather’s life and lessons.
16. “Granddaddy’s Song” by Kyle Bennett Band
“Granddaddy’s Song” by the Kyle Bennett Band is a narrative that delves into the history and legacy of the narrator’s great-grandfather.
The lyrics recount tales of the great-grandfather’s life, including his involvement in moonshining during the Prohibition era. The song reflects on the similarities between the narrator and his ancestor, both in appearance and spirit.
Through vivid storytelling, “Granddaddy’s Song” celebrates the adventurous and resilient nature of the narrator’s forebears, highlighting the enduring influence of family history.
17. “In Color” by Jamey Johnson
“In Color,” co-written and performed by Jamey Johnson, is a poignant country ballad released in March 2008. The song tells the story of a grandfather showing his grandson black-and-white photographs from his past, including moments from the Great Depression, World War II, and his wedding day.
The lyrics emphasize the depth and emotion of these experiences, suggesting that the true essence of these moments can only be fully appreciated if seen “in color.”
The song’s vivid storytelling and emotional depth earned it critical acclaim, including the “Song of the Year” award at both the 2009 ACM and CMA Awards.
The song’s success is attributed to its universal themes of family, history, and the passage of time, making it a touching tribute to the wisdom and experiences of older generations.
18. “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” by Riley Green
“I Wish Grandpas Never Died,” co-written and performed by Riley Green, is a heartfelt country song released in September 2019.
The song is a tribute to Green’s grandfathers, who are also credited as co-writers. The lyrics express a longing for a simpler time and a wish for the enduring presence of grandfathers.
Green reflects on cherished memories and timeless values, lamenting the loss of both his grandfathers and the traditional country music they loved.
The song resonated with many listeners, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and earning Platinum certification in the United States.
Its nostalgic and sentimental tone makes it a fitting homage to the enduring influence of grandfathers.
19. “I’m My Own Grandpa” by Willie Nelson
“I’m My Own Grandpa” is a novelty song written by Dwight Latham and Moe Jaffe, famously performed by Willie Nelson. The song humorously explores a convoluted family tree where, through a series of unlikely but legal marriages, a man becomes his own grandfather.
The song’s playful and absurd narrative has made it a beloved classic in the novelty genre since its original release in 1947 by Lonzo and Oscar.
Willie Nelson’s version brings his unique charm and humor to the song, making it a delightful addition to any playlist celebrating family, even if in a light-hearted and humorous way.
20. “Afire Love” by Ed Sheeran
“Afire Love,” recorded by Ed Sheeran for his 2014 album ×, is a deeply emotional song about Sheeran’s grandfather, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease for 20 years before passing away in 2013.
The song, produced by Johnny McDaid, reflects on Sheeran’s experiences and emotions as he watched his grandfather’s decline and eventual passing.
The lyrics poignantly describe the impact of the disease on his family and the powerful love between his grandparents. The song concludes with a moving tribute at his grandfather’s funeral, capturing the enduring bond and love within the family.
“Afire Love” is a touching and personal tribute, highlighting the emotional struggles and deep connections associated with losing a grandparent.
Submit Your Song to This Playlist
Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.
Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.