About the song
John Prine, a beloved folk singer and songwriter, penned “Grandpa Was a Carpenter” as a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather and the working class. This poignant ballad, released in 1971, became a popular addition to Prine’s live performances and a beloved song among his dedicated fanbase.
With his distinctive voice and introspective lyrics, Prine explores the themes of family, heritage, and the importance of hard work. Through emotive vocals and evocative imagery, listeners are invited to reflect on their own family histories and the sacrifices made by previous generations.
The opening lines, “Grandpa was a carpenter, a man of simple means,” set the stage for a song that celebrates the working class and the value of hard work. Prine describes his grandfather’s life, highlighting his dedication, resilience, and unwavering love for his family. The song’s refrain, “Grandpa was a carpenter, a man of simple means, but he built a house for me,” conveys a sense of gratitude and respect for Prine’s grandfather’s contributions.
Throughout the song, Prine uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate his grandfather’s life. He references the “old, familiar tools” that his grandfather used and the “love and care” that he put into his work. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and a longing for a simpler time, while also highlighting the importance of family and tradition.
“Grandpa Was a Carpenter” is more than just a tribute to Prine’s grandfather; it is a celebration of the working class and the value of hard work. Prine’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the importance of family, heritage, and the sacrifices made by previous generations. This timeless classic continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of love and the importance of honoring our roots.
Video
Lyrics
Grandpa wore his suit to dinner
Nearly every day
No particular reason
He just dressed that way
Brown necktie and a matching vest
And both his wingtip shoes
He built a closet on our back porch
And put a penny in a burned out fuse.
Grandpa was a carpenter
He built houses stores and banks
Chain smoked camel cigarettes
And hammered nails in planks
He was level on the level
And shaved even every door
And voted for eisenhower
’cause lincoln won the war.
Well, he used to sing me “blood on the saddle”
And rock me on his knee
And let me listen to radio
Before we got t.v.
Well, he’d drive to church on sunday
And take me with him too!
Stained glass in every window
Hearing aids in every pew.
Grandpa was a carpenter
He built houses stores and banks
Chain smoked camel cigarettes
And hammered nails in planks
He was level on the level
And shaved even every door
And voted for eisenhower
’cause lincoln won the war.
Now my grandma was a teacher
Went to school in bowling green
Traded in a milking cow
For a singer sewing machine
She called her husband “mister”
And walked real tall and pride
And used to buy me comic books
After grandpa died.
Grandpa was a carpenter
He built houses stores and banks
Chain smoked camel cigarettes
And hammered nails in planks
He was level on the level
And shaved even every door
And voted for eisenhower
’cause lincoln won the war.