20 Songs About Sons

As a mum of two boys, I’ve experienced firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with raising sons. From the moment I first held them in my arms to watching them take their first steps and beyond, the journey of mumhood has been filled with joy, challenges, and countless memorable moments. Music has always been a powerful medium for expressing the complex feelings that come with parenthood, and songs about sons hold a special place in my heart.

In this playlist, I’ll be sharing 20 songs that beautifully capture the essence of the mum-son relationship. These tracks span various genres and decades, each offering a unique perspective on the bond between mums and their boys.

1. “He Gets That From Me” by Reba McEntire

Written by Philip White and Steven Dale Jones, this 2004 country ballad is a poignant tribute to a son who has lost his father. The song explores the similarities between the child and his parents, with the mother noting traits her son inherited from both her and his late father.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of everyday moments, from the son’s morning routine to his physical features like curly hair and freckles. As the song progresses, it reveals deeper emotional connections, such as the boy’s love for playing guitar and his ability to make his mother laugh, both reminiscent of his father.

The song’s emotional climax comes in the final verse, where the son prays for strength for himself and his mother, expressing how much he misses his father. This heartfelt narrative showcases the enduring bond between family members and the ways loved ones live on through shared traits and memories.

2. “Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)” by John Lennon

Written by John Lennon for his son Sean, this tender lullaby was released on Lennon’s 1980 album “Double Fantasy”. The song reflects Lennon’s deep love for his young son and his commitment to being a present, attentive father—a stark contrast to his experience with his first son, Julian.

Lennon began writing the song in 1979, refining it through several demo versions before the final recording. The lyrics are filled with affectionate observations and fatherly advice, including the famous line, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans”.

The song gained additional poignancy after Lennon’s tragic death shortly after its release. It has since become a beloved tribute to the bond between father and son, chosen by both Paul McCartney and Yoko Ono as one of their Desert Island Discs.

3. “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts

Written by Jeffrey Steele and Steve Robson, “My Wish” was released in 2006 as part of Rascal Flatts’ album “Me and My Gang”. While not explicitly about a son, the song expresses a parent’s hopes and wishes for a child’s future, making it a popular choice for graduations and other milestone events.

The lyrics are structured as a series of heartfelt wishes, hoping for an easy path, big dreams, and small worries for the listener. The chorus emphasizes the desire for the child to know they are loved and supported as they navigate life’s journey.

The song’s universal message of love and support has resonated widely, becoming one of Rascal Flatts’ most popular crossover hits. Its enduring popularity led to a re-recorded version released in 2016 to celebrate the song’s 10th anniversary.

4. “Boy” by Lee Brice

Written by Nicolle Galyon and Jon Nite, “Boy” was released in 2017 as the lead single from Lee Brice’s self-titled fourth studio album. The song is a touching reflection on fatherhood and watching a son grow up.

Brice chose to release “Boy” as a single after noticing how it resonated with fans during live performances, with audience members often holding up pictures of their sons. The lyrics capture the bittersweet emotions of a father watching his son grow, reflecting on both the challenges and joys of parenthood.

The song’s gentle acoustic arrangement complements Brice’s emotive vocals, creating a heartfelt tribute to the father-son relationship. While it didn’t reach the same commercial heights as some of Brice’s earlier hits, “Boy” has been praised for its ability to connect with parents watching their children grow up.

5. “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem

Released in 2002 as part of Eminem’s album The Eminem Show, “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” is a deeply personal and intense song where Eminem confronts his tumultuous past, particularly his fraught relationship with his mother, Debbie Mathers. The song is a cathartic release, allowing Eminem to vent his anger and frustration over his upbringing and the abandonment by his father. The lyrics are raw and unfiltered, detailing the emotional scars left by his parents’ actions. The chorus, “I’m sorry, Mama, I never meant to hurt you,” juxtaposes his anger with a sense of regret, highlighting the complexity of his emotions. The song’s production, featuring a blend of hip-hop and rock elements, complements the intensity of the lyrics, making it one of Eminem’s most powerful tracks.

6. “A Song For My Son” by Mikki Viereck

“A Song For My Son” by Mikki Viereck is a heartfelt ballad often played at weddings, particularly during the mother-son dance. The song, which Viereck wrote for her own son’s wedding, expresses a mother’s love and pride as she watches her son embark on a new chapter in his life. The lyrics reflect on the journey from childhood to adulthood, offering advice to be kind, sweet, and fair. The song’s emotional depth captures the bittersweet moment of a mother letting go while reaffirming the enduring bond between mother and son. It has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies, resonating with many families for its touching and universal message.

7. “You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins

Originally written for the 1999 Disney movie Tarzan, “You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins is a touching song about a parent’s unconditional love and protection for their child. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and has since become a beloved anthem for parents and children alike. In the context of the film, the song underscores the bond between Tarzan and his adoptive mother, Kala, but its universal message of love and reassurance transcends the movie. Collins’ soothing vocals and the song’s gentle melody make it a comforting and enduring tribute to parental love.

8. “Forever Young” by Bob Dylan

Written as a lullaby for his eldest son, Jesse, “Forever Young” by Bob Dylan is a song filled with a father’s hopes and blessings for his child. Released in 1974 on the album Planet Waves, the song comes in two versions: a slow, reflective ballad and a more upbeat, rock-oriented rendition. The lyrics, inspired by the priestly blessing from the Book of Numbers, express wishes for happiness, strength, and integrity. Dylan’s heartfelt words encourage his son to live a life of kindness, courage, and authenticity. The song’s timeless message and its dual versions have made it a staple in Dylan’s catalog and a cherished piece for many listeners.

9. “Carry On Wayward Son” by Kansas

Written by Kansas guitarist Kerry Livgren, “Carry On Wayward Son” was released in 1976 on the album Leftoverture. The song is an anthem of perseverance and self-encouragement, addressing themes of struggle, introspection, and spiritual searching. Livgren, who was on a personal spiritual journey at the time, wrote the song as a message to himself to continue seeking truth and meaning in life. The lyrics, such as “Carry on, my wayward son / There’ll be peace when you are done,” offer a sense of hope and resolution, encouraging listeners to persist through difficult times. The song’s powerful rock arrangement and philosophical lyrics have made it a classic, resonating with audiences for decades.

10. “Child of Mine” by Carole King

“Child of Mine” is a tender and heartfelt song from Carole King’s debut solo album Writer, released in 1970. The song is a loving tribute to her children, expressing a mother’s unconditional love and pride. The lyrics reflect on the unique perspectives and qualities of her child, celebrating their individuality and growth. King sings, “You don’t need direction, you know which way to go / And I don’t want to hold you back, I just want to watch you grow,” emphasizing her support and admiration for her child’s journey. The song combines elements of a lullaby and a love song, creating an intimate and emotional connection with listeners.

11. “Son of a Preacher Man” by Dusty Springfield

“Son of a Preacher Man,” written by John Hurley and Ronnie Wilkins, was recorded by Dusty Springfield for her 1968 album Dusty in Memphis. The song tells the story of a young girl’s romantic encounters with the son of a preacher, who teaches her about love and life. The narrative, rich with soul and emotion, captures the essence of forbidden love and youthful longing. Springfield’s soulful performance, combined with the song’s catchy melody and poignant lyrics, made it an international hit. The song’s legacy was further cemented when it was featured in Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 film Pulp Fiction, introducing it to a new generation of listeners.

12. “Cat’s In The Cradle” by Harry Chapin

Released in 1974 on the album Verities & Balderdash, “Cat’s In The Cradle” is a poignant ballad by Harry Chapin that explores the complexities of father-son relationships. Inspired by a poem written by his wife, Sandy Chapin, the song tells the story of a father who is too busy to spend time with his son, only to realize too late that his son has grown up to be just like him. The lyrics, such as “And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon / Little boy blue and the man on the moon,” use nursery rhyme imagery to convey the passage of time and the missed opportunities for connection. The song’s emotional depth and relatable narrative have made it an enduring classic, resonating with listeners across generations.

13. “The Living Years” by Mike + The Mechanics

Released in 1988, “The Living Years” is a poignant ballad by Mike + The Mechanics, written by B.A. Robertson and Mike Rutherford. The song addresses the regret and unresolved conflicts between a father and son, reflecting on generational misunderstandings and the missed opportunities for reconciliation. The lyrics, such as “I wasn’t there that morning when my father passed away / I didn’t get to tell him all the things I had to say,” convey a deep sense of loss and the importance of expressing emotions while loved ones are still alive. Paul Carrack’s soulful vocals and the song’s contemplative tone resonate with listeners, making it a timeless reflection on family relationships and communication.

14. “My Little Man” by Ozzy Osbourne

“My Little Man” is a heartfelt song from Ozzy Osbourne’s 1995 album Ozzmosis. Co-written with Steve Vai, the song is a tender tribute to Osbourne’s son, expressing a father’s deep love and protective instincts. The lyrics, “Don’t you know I love you more than life itself? / Don’t you know that you’re my pride?” highlight the emotional bond and the desire to shield his son from the hardships of the world. The song’s gentle melody and Osbourne’s sincere delivery create a touching and intimate portrayal of paternal love.

15. “Son of Man” by Phil Collins

“Son of Man” is a song by Phil Collins for the 1999 Disney animated film Tarzan. The song accompanies a montage in which Tarzan grows from a child to an adult, learning essential life skills and finding his place in the world. The lyrics, such as “Son of man, look to the sky / Lift your spirit, set it free,” emphasize themes of growth, self-discovery, and the journey from boyhood to manhood. Collins’ uplifting melody and inspirational message make the song a powerful anthem about personal development and the transition to adulthood.

16. “Just the Two of Us” by Will Smith

Released in 1997 on his debut solo album Big Willie Style, “Just the Two of Us” by Will Smith is a rap song that celebrates the bond between a father and son. Inspired by Bill Withers and Grover Washington Jr.’s song of the same name, Smith’s version focuses on the joys and responsibilities of fatherhood. The lyrics, “From the first time the doctor placed you in my arms / I knew I’d meet death ‘fore I’d let you meet harm,” reflect a father’s unconditional love and commitment to his child’s well-being. The song’s heartfelt message and catchy beat have made it a beloved tribute to the father-son relationship.

17. “God Bless The Child” by Billie Holiday

“God Bless The Child” is a jazz standard written by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr. in 1939 and first recorded in 1941. The song was inspired by a personal incident in Holiday’s life involving a financial dispute with her mother, which led to the iconic line, “God bless the child that’s got his own.” The lyrics reflect themes of self-reliance and financial independence, emphasizing the importance of having one’s own resources. The song has been widely acclaimed and covered by numerous artists, including Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1976. Despite its broader themes, the song resonates with the idea of parental advice and the lessons passed down from one generation to the next.

18. “The One Thing” by Shakira

“The One Thing” is a song by Colombian singer-songwriter Shakira, featured on her first English-language album Laundry Service (2001). Released as a single in 2002, the song is a ballad that expresses Shakira’s gratitude for the love she has received, despite feeling lonely. The lyrics convey a sense of appreciation and emotional depth, highlighting the importance of love and connection in one’s life. While not explicitly about a son, the song’s themes of love and gratitude can be interpreted in the context of a parent’s feelings towards their child. The music video depicts Shakira walking through a city, observing couples and families, which underscores the song’s themes of love and companionship.

19. “Anything Like Me” by Brad Paisley

“Anything Like Me” is a country song co-written and recorded by Brad Paisley, released in 2010 as part of his compilation album Hits Alive. The song is from the perspective of an expectant father who imagines what his son will be like, reflecting on his own childhood and the potential challenges and joys his son might face. The lyrics humorously and tenderly describe the father’s concerns and hopes, as he envisions his son getting into the same kinds of trouble he did, such as climbing trees and breaking windows. The song’s heartfelt narrative and acoustic arrangement have been praised for their relatability and emotional resonance, capturing the anxieties and joys of parenthood.

20. “Father And Son” by Cat Stevens

“Father And Son” by Cat Stevens, released in 1970 on the album Tea for the Tillerman, is a classic ballad that explores the generational divide between a father and his son. The song is structured as a dialogue, with the father advising his son to stay and take a safe path, while the son feels compelled to pursue his own dreams and leave home. The lyrics poignantly capture the emotional struggles and misunderstandings that often arise between parents and their children. Stevens wrote the song for a musical about the Russian Revolution, but it has since become an enduring anthem about family dynamics and the bittersweet nature of growing up. The song’s timeless message and emotional depth have made it a favorite for many listeners, especially around Father’s Day.

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