22 Best Songs About Sons

The bond between parent and son is so strong that many a song has been written about it including some chart topping classics.

In this list of the best songs about sons, we’ve included songs from the inimitable Eric Clapton and Cat Stevens as well as some more lesser known country hits which have a strong presence in this list. Without further ado, let’s get started!

1. Simple Man – Lynyrd Skynyrd

We start our list of songs about sons with “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Released in 1973, it’s become one of their most popular songs ever.

The lyrics are inspired by Ronnie Van Zant’s grandmother’s life advice. Heartfelt and genuine. The song features a memorable electric guitar intro that sets the mood perfectly.

“Simple Man” has sold over 1.3 million copies digitally in the U.S. alone. A true testament to its enduring appeal. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s powerful performance and relatable message continue to resonate with fans worldwide.

2. Tears In Heaven – Eric Clapton

Tears In Heaven is a heartbreaking masterpiece. Written about the tragic death of Clapton’s young son, Conor. The song is raw, emotional, and deeply personal.

Clapton poured his grief into the lyrics. His pain is palpable in every word. The melody is simple yet powerful, perfectly complementing the heavy subject matter.

Despite the sad inspiration, the song is beautiful. It’s a testament to Clapton’s incredible talent as a songwriter and musician. Tears In Heaven is a touching tribute to a life lost too soon.

3. Father And Son – Cat Stevens

“Father and Son” by Cat Stevens is a heartfelt conversation between a dad and his boy. The father wants his son to stay, but the son needs to find his own way.

Stevens sings both parts brilliantly. His deep voice for the father and higher register for the son make the song come alive. Simple yet powerful.

Rolling Stone named it one of the greatest songs ever. And for good reason. “Father and Son” captures the universal struggle between generations. It’s a story as old as time, told beautifully.

4. Cat’s In The Cradle – Harry Chapin

“Cat’s in the Cradle” is a powerful folk rock classic. It tells the story of a father too busy for his son. The boy grows up just like him.

When the father retires, he reaches out to his adult son. But now the son has no time for his old man. The father realizes his mistakes too late.

A poignant, relatable tale. Timeless and thought-provoking. Chapin’s only #1 hit, but his most enduring song.

5. Beautiful Boy – John Lennon

John Lennon’s “Beautiful Boy” is a touching tribute to his son, Sean. It’s a lullaby and a love song.

The song begins with John comforting Sean after a nightmare. It then evolves into a passionate expression of the love and joy Sean brings to his life.

The famous quote “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans” is featured in the lyrics. Words to live by. The song ends with a tender whisper: “Good night, Sean. See you in the morning. Bright and early.”

6. Forever Young – Rod Stewart

Forever Young by Rod Stewart is a heartfelt anthem. Stewart wrote it about his kids. He realized he’d missed much of their lives due to touring.

The song’s lyrics were similar to a Bob Dylan song. Stewart asked Dylan if he had a problem with it. They agreed to share ownership and royalties.

Forever Young has been used in many contexts. It was the soundtrack for an NBC Sports montage. Stewart has recorded several versions, including a stripped-down piano rendition. It remains a beloved track, showcasing Stewart’s emotional songwriting.

7. Just the Two of Us – Will Smith

Will Smith’s “Just the Two of Us” is a heartwarming tribute to fatherhood. Inspired by the classic love song, Smith puts his own spin on it. Genius.

The track features Fuzzy and Sauce from Somethin’ for the People. They add smooth vocals that perfectly complement Smith’s rapping. The result is a feel-good hit that reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The music video is a celebration of dads everywhere. It shows Smith playing with his son Trey, along with other celebrity fathers and their kids.

8. Watching You – Rodney Atkins

Watching You is a heartwarming hit by Rodney Atkins. It’s all about a father’s influence on his son. Two memorable verses tell the tale.

In the first, father and son cruise through town, son munching on a Happy Meal. When Dad slams the brakes, the boy spills his food and swears. Where’d he learn that? “I’ve been watching you, Dad!”

Later, Dad prays in the barn. That night, he catches his son praying too. The boy’s response? Same as before – he’s been watching his dad. Cue the warm and fuzzy ending!

9. The Best Day – George Strait

Our next song about sons is George Strait’s “The Best Day” which again describes the father-son relationship. It’s a feel-good tune that’s easy to relate to. The lyrics take you through the son’s life, from camping trips to getting his first car.

The song builds to the son’s wedding day. As he stands with his father, he reflects on the lessons he’s learned. He feels like the luckiest man alive.

Strait’s warm vocals bring the story to life. His delivery is honest and emotional. It’s no surprise this song became a big hit for the country legend.

10. Humble and Kind – Tim McGraw

This heartwarming hit by Tim McGraw is a touching song with a powerful message. The lyrics are advice from a parent to their child.

The song won big at awards shows. It took home Best Country Song at the Grammys. It also won Video of the Year at the CMT Music Awards.

“Humble and Kind” was a huge success. It reached #1 on the country charts in the US and Canada. The single has been certified platinum too.

11. Creed – With Arms Wide Open

With Arms Wide Open is a moving song about fatherhood. It captures the excitement and fear of becoming a dad for the first time.

Creed’s lead singer Scott Stapp wrote the lyrics in just 15 minutes. He was inspired after learning his wife was pregnant with their first child. The words flowed out of him effortlessly.

The song became a huge hit, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It earned Creed a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Vocal Performance. Stapp and guitarist Mark Tremonti also won the Grammy for Best Rock Song as the writers.

With Arms Wide Open continues to resonate with Stapp as a father. The lyrics ring true to his experience raising his three kids.

12. Boy – Lee Brice

“Boy” by Lee Brice is a heartfelt country gem. It beautifully captures the emotions of a father watching his son grow up too fast.

This song about sons has a gentle acoustic instrumentation which perfectly complements Brice’s soulful vocals. His delivery is spot-on, conveying the song’s sentiment with sincerity and warmth.

While not a huge chart-topper, “Boy” resonated deeply with fans. They connected with its relatable message about cherishing fleeting moments of childhood. A touching song that strikes a chord with parents everywhere.

13. My Boy – Elvie Shane

“My Boy” is a heartwarming ballad by Elvie Shane. It’s all about the love a stepfather has for his son. Shane wrote it with his buddies back in 2016.

The song struck a chord with folks. It even went platinum in 2022! The lyrics capture the special bond between a stepdad and his boy.

The music video is a real tearjerker. Shane plays a mechanic who works alongside a truck driver. The driver’s relationship with his stepson takes center stage.

14. Baby Mine – Betty Noyes

Betty Noyes’ “Baby Mine” is a heartwarming lullaby from Disney’s Dumbo. It’s simple, sweet, and unforgettable.

The song perfectly captures a mother’s love for her child. As Mrs. Jumbo cradles little Dumbo, you can feel the tenderness in every word.

“Baby Mine” has stood the test of time. Covered by countless artists, it continues to tug at heartstrings decades later. A true Disney classic.

15. He Gets That From Me – Reba McEntire

He Gets That From Me is a heartwarming song by Reba McEntire. It’s all about a mother describing the things her son gets from her. Like his attitude and freckles.

But it’s not just about mom. The son gets things from his father too, like playing guitar and cracking jokes.

The final verse reveals the father has passed away. The son prays for strength for him and his mother. He also prays to make sure his father knows they’re okay.

16. Between Fathers and Sons – Waylon Jennings

Waylon’s “Between Fathers and Sons” is a poignant country classic. It explores the complex bond between dads and their boys. Jennings delivers the lyrics with raw emotion.

This song about sons is a conversation between generations. It’s about understanding, forgiveness and love. Simple but powerful.

17. Father To A Son – Green Day

“Father to a Son” is a heartfelt track from Green Day’s album Saviors. The song showcases the band’s signature sound while delivering a powerful message. It’s a must-listen for any Green Day fan or anyone who appreciates meaningful lyrics and catchy melodies.

18. Little Man – Ian Munsick

This track is about a father’s love letter to his son. Filled with life lessons and sound advice.

Munsick’s warm vocals shine through. His lyrics paint vivid pictures. You can almost see the Wyoming mountains in the background.

This song is sure to resonate. Especially with new dads. Play it on repeat.

19. Dear Son – Josh Brock

Dear Son by Josh Brock is a powerful country tune. It’s a letter from a father to his boy. The lyrics are full of love, wisdom, and hope for the future. A touching song for any dad and son.

20. You Will Always Be My Son – Anthem Lights

This is a touching song about a father’s unconditional love. The lyrics are simple yet powerful.

The song reassures the son that he’ll always be loved, no matter what. It’s a beautiful message of support and acceptance. Perfect for any father-son relationship.

21. A Song For My Son – Mikki Viereck

This is a touching expression of a mother’s love with simple yet powerful lyrics, capturing the deep bond between parent and child.

This song is a beautiful reminder of the special connection mothers share with their sons. It’s sure to resonate with any parent who has experienced the joys and challenges of raising a child.

22. Daddy’s Son – Trey Pendley

Our final song about sons is Daddy’s Son. It’s all about the special bond between a father and his boy. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, capturing the pride and love a dad has for his son.

Wrapping Up

That wraps up our list of songs about sons. This list was heavily dominated by country hits but also peppered with some more well-known hits from the 60’s and 70’s. Let us know what you think in the comments below.