About the song
John Denver, a beloved folk singer known for his heartfelt lyrics and acoustic guitar playing, penned “Matthew” as a poignant tribute to his son. This heartfelt ballad, released in 1973, became a popular addition to Denver’s live performances and a beloved song among his dedicated fanbase.
With his distinctive voice and introspective lyrics, Denver explores the themes of fatherhood, love, and the fleeting nature of time. The song delves into the complexities of a parent-child relationship, capturing the joys and challenges of raising a child. Through Denver’s emotive vocals and the song’s intimate atmosphere, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
The opening lines, “Matthew, my son, a precious gift,” set the stage for a song that celebrates the love and bond between a father and his child. Denver expresses his deep affection and pride for his son, while also acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties that come with parenthood. The song’s refrain, “Matthew, my son, I love you so,” conveys a sense of unconditional love and devotion.
Throughout the song, Denver uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate the joys and challenges of fatherhood. He references the “little hands” that hold his, the “laughing eyes” that fill him with joy, and the “growing pains” that come with childhood. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the precious moments shared with his son.
“Matthew” is more than just a personal song; it is a testament to the enduring power of family and the love between a parent and child. Denver’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the importance of cherishing our loved ones and creating lasting memories. This timeless classic continues to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder of the profound love and connection that exists between parents and their children.
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Lyrics
Had an uncle named Matthew
He was his father’s only boy
Born just south of Colby, Kansas
He was his mother’s pride and joy
Yes, and joy was just the thing that he was raised on
Love is just the way to live and die
Gold is just a windy Kansas wheat field
And blue is just a Kansas summer sky
And all the stories that he told me
Back when I was just a lad
All the memories that he gave me
All the good times that he had
Growin’ up a Kansas farm boy
Life was mostly havin’ fun
Ridin’ on his Daddy’s shoulders
Behind the mule, beneath the sun
Yes, and joy was just the thing that he was raised on
Love is just the way to live and die
Gold is just a windy Kansas wheat field
And blue is just a Kansas summer sky
Well, I guess there were some hard times
And I’m told some years were lean
They had a storm in forty-seven
A twister came and stripped them clean
He lost the farm and lost his family
He lost the wheat and lost his home
But he found a family Bible
Faith as solid as a stone
Yes, and joy was just the thing that he was raised on
Love is just the way to live and die
Gold is just a windy Kansas wheat field
And blue is just a Kansas summer sky
So he came to live at our house
And he came to work the land
He came to ease my Daddy’s burden
And he came to be my friend
So, I wrote this down for Matthew
And it’s for him the song is sung
Ridin’ on his Daddy’s shoulders
Behind the mule, beneath the sun
Yes, and joy was just the thing that he was raised on
Love is just the way to live and die
Gold is just a windy Kansas wheat field
And blue is just a Kansas summer sky
Yes, and joy was just the thing that he was raised on
Love is just the way to live and die
Gold is just a windy Kansas wheat field
Blue is just a Kansas summer sky