About the song
Introducing “Cats in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin
“Cats in the Cradle” is a poignant song that touches the hearts of listeners with its profound lyrics and emotive melody. Sung by the talented Harry Chapin, this timeless track explores the complexities of father-son relationships and the passage of time.
Written by Harry Chapin himself, “Cats in the Cradle” tells the story of a father who is too busy to spend time with his son, only to realize later in life that the roles have reversed. The song’s introspective lyrics and haunting melody strike a chord with audiences of all ages, prompting reflection on the importance of family and connection.
The song was featured on Chapin’s album “Verities & Balderdash,” released in 1974. It quickly climbed the charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its powerful message and Chapin’s heartfelt delivery resonated with audiences, making it one of his most beloved songs.
Beyond its commercial success, “Cats in the Cradle” has left a lasting impact on popular culture, with its themes of fatherhood and regret continuing to resonate with listeners today. The song has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a classic.
So, whether you’re a parent reflecting on your own relationship with your children or simply appreciating the beauty of a well-crafted song, let Harry Chapin’s “Cats in the Cradle” remind you of the importance of cherishing time spent with loved ones and the power of music to evoke deep emotions.
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Lyrics
My child arrived just the other day
He came to the world in the usual way
But there were planes to catch, and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away
And he was talking ‘fore I knew it, and as he grew
He’d say “I’m gonna be like you, dad”
“You know I’m gonna be like you”
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, dad?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then
You know we’ll have a good time then
My son turned ten just the other day
He said, thanks for the ball, dad, come on let’s play
Can you teach me to throw, I said-a, not today
I got a lot to do, he said, that’s okay
And he, he walked away, but his smile never dimmed
It said, I’m gonna be like him, yeah
You know I’m gonna be like him
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, dad?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then
You know we’ll have a good time then
Well, he came from college just the other day
So much like a man I just had to say
Son, I’m proud of you, can you sit for a while?
He shook his head, and they said with a smile
What I’d really like, dad, is to borrow the car keys
See you later, can I have them please?
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, son?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then, dad
You know we’ll have a good time then
I’ve long since retired, my son’s moved away
I called him up just the other day
I said, I’d like to see you if you don’t mind
He said, I’d love to, dad, if I can find the time
You see, my new job’s a hassle, and the kids have the flu
But it’s sure nice talking to you, dad
It’s been sure nice talking to you
And as I hung up the phone, it occurred to me
He’d grown up just like me
My boy was just like me
And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man in the moon
“When you coming home, son?” “I don’t know when”
But we’ll get together then, dad
We’re gonna have a good time then