About the song
Let’s dive into the poignant narrative of “Cats in the Cradle” by the beloved Harry Chapin. Released in 1974 as part of his album “Verities & Balderdash,” this timeless ballad strikes a chord with listeners of all generations.
Written by Harry Chapin and his wife Sandy Chapin, “Cats in the Cradle” tells the story of a father’s regret over not spending enough time with his son, who eventually grows up to repeat the same pattern with his own children. Through Chapin’s heartfelt lyrics and emotive delivery, the song poignantly captures the bittersweet cycle of life and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones.
Upon its release, “Cats in the Cradle” resonated deeply with audiences around the world, earning widespread acclaim and commercial success. It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying Harry Chapin’s status as a master storyteller and folk rock icon.
One of the most notable aspects of “Cats in the Cradle” is its universal message, which transcends generations and continues to resonate with listeners today. Its timeless themes of family, regret, and the passage of time make it a perennial favorite among fans of folk and acoustic music.
So, if you’re in the mood for a heartfelt ballad that will tug at your heartstrings and inspire reflection, look no further than Harry Chapin’s “Cats in the Cradle.” Let this classic track remind you of the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones and living life to the fullest.
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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