About the song
“Daddy, What If” is a heartwarming and tender song that highlights the unique bond between father and child. Performed as a duet by country music legend Bobby Bare and his son, Bobby Bare Jr., this song stands out not only for its touching lyrics but also for the genuine affection evident in their voices. Released in 1973, “Daddy, What If” became one of Bobby Bare’s most beloved songs, capturing the attention of listeners with its simple yet profound message about a child’s curiosity and the comforting reassurances of a parent.
Bobby Bare, a prominent figure in country music known for his rich baritone voice and storytelling ability, was already an established artist by the time “Daddy, What If” was released. The song was included on his album *Lullabys, Legends and Lies*, which featured a collection of songs written by the legendary Shel Silverstein. Silverstein, known for his whimsical and insightful children’s books, also had a knack for writing songs that appealed to both children and adults, and “Daddy, What If” is a perfect example of this talent.
The song’s lyrics revolve around a series of “what if” questions posed by a young child, voiced by Bobby Bare Jr., who was just eight years old at the time. These questions, ranging from concerns about nature to worries about personal safety, reflect the natural curiosity and innocence of childhood. Bobby Bare Sr. responds to each question with gentle reassurances, emphasizing the protective and nurturing role of a father. The interplay between the two voices creates a charming and endearing dynamic that resonated with audiences of all ages.
“Daddy, What If” was not only a commercial success but also a critical one. It reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, demonstrating its widespread appeal. The song’s popularity was further cemented when it received a Grammy nomination for Best Country & Western Vocal Performance, recognizing the heartfelt performance by both father and son.
For an older and educated audience, “Daddy, What If” evokes a sense of nostalgia, recalling a time when country music often explored themes of family, love, and the simple pleasures of life. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes and the genuine emotion conveyed through the performances of Bobby Bare and his son. It is a reminder of the importance of family bonds and the comforting presence of a parent in a child’s life.
As listeners revisit “Daddy, What If,” they are transported back to a moment in time when the world seemed a little simpler and the love between a parent and child was enough to ease any worries. The song remains a cherished piece in Bobby Bare’s extensive catalog and continues to touch the hearts of those who hear it.
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Lyrics
If the sun stopped shinin’ you’d be so surprised
You’d stare at the heavens with wide open eyes
And the wind would carry your light to the skies
And the sun would start shinin’ again
(Daddy what if the wind stopped blowin’ what would happen then)
If the wind stopped blowin’ then the land would be dry
And your boat wouldn’t sail son and your kite wouldn’t fly
And the grass would see your troubles and she’d tell the wind
And the wind would start blowin’ again
(But daddy what if the grass stopped growin’ what would happen then)
If the grass stopped growin’ why you’d probably cry
And the ground would be watered by the tears from your eyes
And like your love for me the grass would grow so high
Yes the grass would start growin’ again
(But daddy what if I stopped lovin’ you what would happen then)
If you stopped lovin’ me then the grass would stop growin’
The sun would stop shinin’ and the wind would stop blowin’
So you see if you wanna keep this old world a goin’
You better start lovin’ me again again you better start lovin’ me again
You hear me Bobby you better start lovin’ me again
You love me Bobby you better start lovin’ me again