“Father and Son” is an incredibly beautiful song by British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens (now Yusuf Islam). It was released in 1970 as part of his album Tea for the Tillerman. The song is a heartfelt conversation between a father and a young son. The father acknowledges life’s many hardships, imploring the boy to be like him, while the son eagerly wants to experience things for himself.
Unsurprisingly, this creates conflict between them. The song explores themes of generational divide, individuality and empathy. More than 40 years after its release, it still holds up as arguably one of Cat Steven’s, if not one of music’s, greatest hits.
“Father and Son” by Cat Stevens
Category | Details |
---|---|
Song Title | Father and Son |
Artist | Cat Stevens (now Yusuf Islam) |
Album | Tea for the Tillerman |
Release Date | November 23, 1970 |
Genre | Folk, Rock |
Songwriter | Cat Stevens |
Producer | Paul Samwell-Smith |
Theme | Generational conflict, individuality, understanding, and personal growth |
Storyline | A conversation between a father advising caution and a son seeking freedom |
Recognition | Considered one of Cat Stevens’ most iconic and enduring songs |
Influence | Universally resonant for its relatable message and emotional depth |
Legacy | Covered by multiple artists; a staple in discussions of family dynamics |
Father and Son Lyrics
It’s not time to make a change
Just relax; take it easy
You’re still young; that’s your fault
There’s so much you have to know
Find a girl, settle down
If you want, you can marry
Look at me, I am old but I’m happy
I was once like you are now and I know that it’s not easy
To be calm when you’ve found something going on
But take your time; think a lot
Think of everything you’ve got
You will still be here tomorrow but your dreams may not
Oh, how can I try to explain?
‘Cause when I do, he turns away again
It’s always been the same, same old story
From the moment I could talk, I was ordered to listen
Now there’s a way and I know that I have to go away
I know I have to go
It’s not time to make a change
Just sit down and take it slowly
You’re still young; that’s your fault
There’s so much you have to go through
Find a girl, settle down
If you want, you can marry
Look at me, I am old but I am happy
All the times that I’ve cried
Keepin’ all the things I knew inside
It’s hard but it’s harder to ignore it
If they were right, I’d agree
But it’s them they know, not me
Now there’s a way and I know that I have to go away
I know I have to go