Father Son Songs: Celebrate A Groom-Dad Bond At Weddings
Updated on June 12, 2023 | Written by Matthew Campbell (Editor of My Wedding Songs and wedding DJ)
Occasionally we take a tangent from the wedding-only song lists. There are several types of occasions that require a special song.
One of them is a wedding, yes. Others are for family celebrations and, sadly, funerals.
This article features our list of special songs between a son and his father.
New Father-Son Songs
- “Hey Dad” by Tyler Booth (Country – 2022)
- “Old Man” by Beck (Rock – 2022)
- “What Makes a Man” by Ben Rector & Thomas Rhett (Pop – 2022)
- “Good Ol’ Man” by Drew Green (Country – 2022)
- “You Will Always Be My Son” by Caleb and Kelsey (Pop – 2022)
- “LIKE YOU” by Aaron Cole, Tauren Wells, and TobyMac (Christian – 2021)
- “My Son” by Eddie Montgomery (Country – 2021)
- “Stay at Home Dad” by Drew Baldridge (Country – 2021)
- “Dad” by Coleton Rubin (Rock – 2021)
- “Things Dads Do” by Thomas Rhett (Country – 2021)
Trending Father and Son Songs
- “My Old Man” by Zac Brown Band (Country – 2017)
- “Boy” by Lee Brice (Country – 2017)
- “Not All Heroes Wear Capes” by Owl City (Pop – 2018)
- “Carry on Wayward Son” by Kansas (Rock – 1984)
- “Father And Son” by Cat Stevens (Singer-Songwriter – 1970)
- “Song for Dad” by Keith Urban (Country – 2002)
- “With Arms Wide Open” by Creed (Rock – 2004)
- “Just The Two Of Us” by Will Smith (Hip Hop – 1997)
- “My Boy” by Elvie Shane (Country – 2021)
- “Dad” by Tyler Wood (Country – 2018)
We’ve talked to wedding couples through social groups and analyzed hundreds of wedding DJs’ playlists across the U.S. that provide reception music.
We selected a list just for you of the most popular and unique father son songs for your reception.
Every groom’s music tastes are different.
Thus, we selected father-son songs that include many different genres.
If you have a favorite Father-Son song that doesn’t appear on our list, please leave a comment below so we can add it.
My Wedding Songs is a reader-supported website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn revenue from qualifying purchases. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission but also support the artists.
Fun Hip Hop Tracks
Like Father Like Son – The Game feat. Busta Rhymes
Released in 2015, Genre: Hip Hop
The song is about all of the things a father thinks about and has to do right before his son’s birth.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I hope you know I love you young’n, like Father, like Son
My little man, your day is coming
Letter 2 My Unborn – 2Pac
Released in 2001, Genre: Hip Hop
The song is a dedication from a father to his son so that he can get through life knowing that his father loves him and will be there for him.
.Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Want to let you know I love you
Love you, if you didn’t know I feel this way
It’s A Boy – Slick Rick
Released in 1991, Genre: Hip Hop
A song about loving parents and passing their love to their son and the day he was born.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Though son, I still kinda wish I coulda been there when he was born at 3:01
Bygones be gone, there’s nowhere wrong and all
Christian Hits for a Special Bond
LIKE YOU – Aaron Cole, Tauren Wells, and TobyMac
Released in 2021, Genre: Christian
A song about wanting more of a purpose in life and being more like God the Father.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause if I’m gonna be more of anything
I just wanna be more like You
Good Good Father – Chris Tomlin
Released in 2015, Genre: Christian
A song about God the Father and how he loves us and is perfect in all of His ways.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You’re a good, good Father
It’s who You are, it’s who You are, it’s who You are
I Will Be Here – Steven Curtis Chapman
Released in 2003, Genre: Christian
A song about a father loving his child and letting the child know that he is there for support and comfort.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Through the winning, losing and trying
We’ll be together
Father’s Love – Bob Carlisle
Released in 1998, Genre: Christian
A song about how there is nothing more in the world than a father’s love for his child and that he is someone you can depend on.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
No matter where you go
Always know You can depend on
Your father’s love
Not only your father, but you can also dedicate a song to your mom. See our list of mother and son songs.
Good Country Songs
Hey Dad – Tyler Booth
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A song from a son to his father lets him know that he is chasing his dreams and remembers his dad’s advice to be a good person.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Hey dad, I want it bad
I pray this crazy dream comes true
And if it does
It’ll be because of all I learned from you
Good Ol’ Man – Drew Green
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A song from the viewpoint of a father trying his best to raise his kids the right way and the best he can.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Out here learning on the fly
Trying to do the best I can
To raise him up right
No sir, yes, ma’am
Reach the Pedals – Jesse Labelle
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
The song is a reflection by a son about how his father taught him to be a good person and enjoy the little things starting from a young age.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Go to church, stay clear of that old devil
That’s what my daddy taught me
Before my feet could reach the pedals
My Son – Eddie Montgomery
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
The song is a dedication from a father to his son that he wants him to be a better man than he was and to reach for his dreams.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
My son please don’t make mistakes
And make, no don’t chase the things I’ve chased
Don’t waste your life on the run
My son, go ahead and spread your wings
Ain’t Even Met You Yet – Chris Lane
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
A song about what a father thinks about before his child is born and the life he envisions together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I feel ready but I feel scared to death
All I know is I love you
Stay at Home Dad – Drew Baldridge
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
A song from the perspective of a song and wants his dad to stay home with him and do things instead of going to work.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Me and mama miss you bad
I’ll be the man till you get back
My Boy – Elvie Shane
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
A song from the viewpoint of a father figure (stepfather, adopted father, etc.) who is not a father by blood but treats his son just like he was.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
He’s bigger than the plans I had
He’s makin’ me a better man
Things He Handed Down – Lady A
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
A song from the perspective of a child that of all the material things passed down that it’s father’s words that are remembered the most.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s his words that mean most to me now
Of the things he handed down
Things Dads Do – Thomas Rhett
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
A song about the things that loving fathers do for their kids and even though you may not appreciate it at the time, someday you will.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Complain and ask why your fridge is full of weird beer
That’s just a few things dads do
Man That Hung The Moon – Brantley Gilbert
Released in 2019, Genre: Country
A song from the perspective of a dad that knows his child will think he is a superhero until he doesn’t and for the child to remember that he loves them.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And it won’t be long
Till I hear “Daddy’s home” and
Footsteps running to
The man that hung the moon
Dad’s Sailboat – Walker Hayes
Released in 2019, Genre: Country
It is a song from the perspective of a son who has a hard time selling his dad’s sailboat because it reminds him of his dad.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Tears don’t care if I don’t want ’em to come
I’m tryna take it like a man but I’m taking it like a son
Dad – Tyler Wood
Released in 2018, Genre: Country
A song from a son talking about his father and how he taught him all the little life lessons.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Anyone else would call you Superman
But I just call you Dad
Boy – Lee Brice
Released in 2017, Genre: Country
A song from the perspective of a dad thinking about all the things his boy is going to do and experience but no matter how old the son gets he will always be dad’s boy.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I know you will, ’cause you’re a part of me
And a part of you will always be my boy
The Best Part Of Me – Lee Brice
Released in 2017, Genre: Country
A song about how a son and father make good decisions and bad decisions but how the good came from each other.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I got my old man’s baby blues
And his daddy’s taste for whiskey too
My Old Man – Zac Brown Band
Released in 2017, Genre: Country
A song about a son losing his father and how he feels lots of pride in the way he was raised and hopes he can do the same for his own son.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Now I finally understand
I have a lot to learn
From my old man
You Should Be Here – Cole Swindell
Released in 2016, Genre: Country
A song about wishing someone who had passed on could be her to celebrate the good times and toast with a beer.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You should be here, standing with your arm around me here
Cutting up, cracking a cold beer
Family Man – Craig Campbell
Released in 2011, Genre: Country
A song about a working man trying to provide for his family as they are his whole world.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
The livin’, breathin’, reason that I am
A family man
He’s Mine – Rodney Atkins
Released in 2011, Genre: Country
A swing about a father describing his wild song and that he got that wild side from himself.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
If you knew me then
There’d be no question in your mind
You know he’s mine
Anything Like Me – Brad Paisley
Released in 2010, Genre: Country
A song about a father thinking about how much trouble his unborn son will get into but that he will be OK if he is anything like his father.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’m gonna lose my temper and some sleep
It’s safe to say that I’m gonna get my pay back if he’s anything like me
A Father’s Love (The Only Way He Knew How) – Bucky Covington
Released in 2010, Genre: Country
A song from a son’s perspective about a dad who showed his love by doing things for his son as his way of saying “I love you”.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
He was saying “I love you”
The only way he knew how
Letter to Me – Brad Paisley
Released in 2007, Genre: Country
A song about a man writing a letter to his younger self and all of the things he should know including loving his family a little bit more.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
But you’ll make it through this, and you’ll see
You’re still around to write this letter to me
Don’t Blink – Kenny Chesney
Released in 2007, Genre: Country
A song letting the listener know to enjoy every little moment because life goes by in the blink of an eye.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Don’t blink, you just might miss
Your babies growing like mine did
Turning into moms and dads
Little Guy – Gord Bamford
Released in 2007, Genre: Country
A song about a new dad and how he is going to love his new son and care for him.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And I’ll dance with you pray for you
And wrap my arms around you when you cry
Little guy
My Wish – Rascal Flatts
Released in 2006, Genre: Country
A song about a special dedication to a child and wishing that all of their dreams come true.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to
Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small
You never need to carry more than you can hold
The Best Day – George Strait
Released in 2006, Genre: Country
A song about a boy who thinks he is the luckiest man alive because he has a loving dad who was there for him.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I can’t believe son that you’ve grown
He said dad this could be the best day of my life
Watching You – Rodney Atkins
Released in 2006, Genre: Country
The song is about a father who realizes his son is closely watching everything he does and is trying to copy him to be just like him – a superhero.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I wanna do everything you do
So I’ve been watching you
Who You’d Be Today – Kenny Chesney
Released in 2005, Genre: Country
A song about someone who died too young and that no one could take their place.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It ain’t fair you died too young
Like a story that had just begun
But death tore the pages all away
God knows how I miss you
Let Them Be Little – Billy Dean
Released in 2005, Genre: Country
A song from a parent wishing that their child can grow up carefree as a child should.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Let them be little, cause they’re only that way for a while
Give them hope, give them praise, give them love, everyday
Mr. Mom – Lonestar
Released in 2004, Genre: Country
A song about a dad taking care of his kids as his main job and being overwhelmed with everything that needs to get done.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Been crazy all day long
And it’s only Monday
Mr. Mom
Then They Do – Trace Adkins
Released in 2003, Genre: Country
The song is from the perspective of a parent missing the days of their children growing up.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Can’t believe how much you miss
All they do
And all they did
You want all the dreams they’ve dreamed of to come true
Then they do
Song for Dad – Keith Urban
Released in 2002, Genre: Country
A song about a son reflecting on how much he is like his dad and how his dad made him the man he is today.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And I only hope when I have my own family
That every day I see a little more of my father in me
Drive (For Daddy Gene) – Alan Jackson
Released in 2002, Genre: Country
A song about a father and son spending time together in a boat on the water.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
But I was king of the ocean
When daddy let me
Drive
He Didn’t Have to Be – Brad Paisley
Released in 1999, Genre: Country
A song from the perspective of a son who has a single mom that marries and his stepfather treats the son as his own.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I think about the man that’s standing next to me
And I hope I’m at least half the dad that he didn’t have to be
The Greatest – Kenny Rogers
Released in 1999, Genre: Country
The song is about a boy who strikes himself out and realized he is not the greatest hitter in the world but the greatest pitcher.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Little Boy, in a baseball hat
Stands in the field with his ball and bat
I Wish I Could Have Been There – John Anderson
Released in 1994, Genre: Country
A song about parents who work hard but miss their kids growing up and how it comes full circle that the kids miss celebrations with their parents – both wishing they could be together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It was a happy day, but kinda’ sad
And I wish they could have been there
Love Without End, Amen – George Strait
Released in 1990, Genre: Country
A song about how a father loves his son unconditionally.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
He said daddies don’t just love their children every now and then
It’s a love without end, amen
That’s My Job – Conway Twitty
Released in 1987, Genre: Country
A song about how it’s a father’s job to be there and support their children.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Everything I do is because of you
To keep you safe with me
That’s my job you see
A Boy Named Sue – Johnny Cash
Released in 1969, Genre: Country
This is a song about how a dad named his son a girl’s name to toughen him up so that he makes it through life’s challenges.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Well, I knew that snake was my own sweet dad
From a worn-out picture that my mother had
You can also have a special song dedication between a father and daughter. See our list of father and daughter songs.
R&B Dedications
Father’s Child – Michael Kiwanuka
Released in 2016, Genre: R&B
The song is about a child that is a lost soul who seeks guidance from his parents.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Walk with me, show me the right direction
The Day (That You Gave Me a Son) – Babyface
Released in 2009, Genre: R&B
A song about a father feeling overjoyed when his son is born.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And I felt blessings straight from God
The day that you gave me a son
Dance With My Father – Luther Vandross
Released in 2003, Genre: R&B
A song about a child wishing they could have one more dance with their father after he has died.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’d play a song that would never ever end
‘Cause I’d love, love, love to dance with my father again
Just The Two Of Us – Will Smith
Released in 1998, Genre: R&B
The song is about a father and son trying to overcome life’s challenges and a father trying to be a good dad.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Every time I look at you I think man, a little me
Just like me, wait and see gonna be tall
Wind Beneath My Wings – Gerald LeVert & Eddie LeVert
Released in 1996, Genre: R&B
A song about giving thanks to someone who has helped you get to where you are today.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I know you know the truth about it
I would be nothing, nothing without you
Patches – Clarence Carter
Released in 1970, Genre: R&B
A song about a dying father asking his son to be the man of the house and take care of his family after he passes away.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So I told Mama I was gonna quit school, but
She said that was Daddy’s strictest rule
You can also have songs dedicated between siblings at your wedding too. See our lists of songs about sisters being best friends, songs about brothers being best friends and sister and brother wedding dance songs.
Fun Rock Tracks
Old Man – Beck
Released in 2022, Genre: Rock
A cover of the song first released by Neil Young. The song compares an old man’s life to a young man’s life and how they need the same things – to love and be loved.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Old man, look at my life
I’m a lot like you were
Dad – Coleton Rubin
Released in 2021, Genre: Rock
A song from a son hoping that he has made his dad proud and that he loves him.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I hope I am everything you wanted me to be
When You Need Me – Bruce Springsteen
Released in 2016, Genre: Rock
A song describing being there for someone at any time including through their successes and challenges in life.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause without you, my life just wouldn’t be the same
If you want me come sunny skies or rain
When you need me, just call my name
Drinking Beer with Dad – Kid Rock
Released in 2015, Genre: Rock
A song about remembering dad’s greatest wisdom was given when drinking on the back porch with him and reflecting on life.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Best education I ever had
Was out there on the back porch drinking beer with dad
Little Lion Man – Mumford & Sons
Released in 2009, Genre: Alt. Rock
A song about a child not becoming who he thought he should be and his father taking the blame.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
But it was not your fault but mine
And it was your heart on the line
I really f***** it up this time
Didn’t I, my dear?
Hell Yeah – Neil Diamond
Released in 2005, Genre: Rock
A song about finding your true meaning in life as quickly as possible as life is shorter than you think.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Still I think about myself
As a lucky old dreamer
And if you’re askin’ me to tell
Is it worth what I paid
You gonna hear me say
Hell yeah
Here For You – Neil Young
Released in 2005, Genre: Rock
This is a song about a parent letting their child go be their own person and live their own life but letting them know that you will be there for support at any time.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Listen to the sound
Of this old heart beating for you
Yes I’d miss you
Sometimes You Can’t Make It On Your Own – U2
Released in 2004, Genre: Rock
A song about a father-and-son relationship and the son letting his dad know that even though they have a tumultuous relationship he will be there for support.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Listen to me now
I need to let you know
You don’t have to go it alone
Sail To The Moon – Radiohead
Released in 2003, Genre: Rock
A song that can be interpreted as a parent wanting the best for their child and that the child will overcome life’s challenges.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Maybe you’ll be president
But know right from wrong
Or in the flood you’ll build an Ark
And sail us to the moon
Life Of A Salesman – Yellowcard
Released in 2003, Genre: Rock
A song from a son’s perspective that he is proud of his dad and knows he will be a better man because of the example that his dad has set forth.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Whisper in my ear that I’m growing up to be a better man, dad
With Arms Wide Open – Creed
Released in 2000, Genre: Rock
A song about the feeling of anxiety of becoming a father but will love his new child with nothing but love.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’ll show you love, I’ll show you everything
With arms wide open
Father, Son – Peter Gabriel
Released in 2000, Genre: Rock
A song about a son feeling invincible because his dad is standing by his side watching over him.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I first found my courage
Knowing daddy could save
I could hold back the tide
With my dad by my side
My Father’s Eyes – Eric Clapton
Released in 1998, Genre: Rock
A song about not really knowing your father well but seeing him in you when raising your own child.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Bit by bit, I’ve realized
That he was here with me
And I looked into my father’s eyes
Father of Mine – Everclear
Released in 1998, Genre: Rock
A song about a father that was not there to raise his son and the son says he would never let that happen to his own child.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Father of mine
Tell me where did you go?
The Last Song – Elton John
Released in 1992, Genre: Rock
A song about a dying boy and his father being there and being right by his side.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I never thought you’d come
I guess I misjudged love between a father and his son
The Living Years – Mike + The Mechanics
Released in 1988, Genre: Rock
A song about a father and son that don’t see eye to eye but reflects that you should tell your father you love him while he is alive because after he is gone it is too late.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I know that I’m a hostage
To all his hopes and fears
I just wish I could have told him in the living years
Forever Young – Rod Stewart
Released in 1988, Genre: Rock
The song was written as a dedication from Stewart to his kids.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
May good fortune be with you
may your guiding light be strong
Walk Like A Man – Bruce Springsteen
Released in 1987, Genre: Rock
A song about a son losing his dad and trying to live up to his dad’s expectations.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Tracing your footprints in the sand
Trying to walk like a man
My Father’s House – Bruce Springsteen
Released in 1982, Genre: Rock
A song about the comfort people get from their childhood home.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
My father’s house shines hard and bright
It stands like a beacon calling me in the night
Independence Day – Bruce Springsteen
Released in 1981, Genre: Rock
A song from a son’s viewpoint of how he had a turbulent relationship with his dad and how it will get better now that the son is leaving to be out on his own.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
There was just no way this house could hold the two of us
I guess that we were just too much of the same kind
Leader of the Band – Dan Fogelberg
Released in 1981, Genre: Rock
This is a beautiful song about a father providing for his family as a musician and sharing his life through the stories of songs.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
My life has been a poor attempt
To imitate the man
Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy) – John Lennon
Released in 1981, Genre: Rock
A song about a father loving his baby boy and thinking about raising him and wishing him sweet dreams.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
The monster’s gone, he’s on the run
And your daddy’s here
A Man I’ll Never Be – Boston
Released in 1978, Genre: Rock
A song about a son who cannot live up to his father’s expectations.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You look up at me
And somewhere in your mind, you see
A man I’ll never be
Carry on Wayward Son – Kansas
Released in 1976, Genre: Rock
The song could be interpreted as a message from a parent to their son but it is really about finding belief in yourself and you will find happiness.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Carry on, my wayward son
There’ll be peace when you are done
You’re My Best Friend – Queen
Released in 1976, Genre: Rock
Even though the song was written for a lovers’ relationship, it is about having eternal love for another.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’m happy, happy at home
You’re my best friend
The Boys Are Back In Town – Thin Lizzy
Released in 1976, Genre: Rock
The song is about wild and crazy boys being back in town and ready to have a good time.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Spread the word around
Guess who’s back in town
Landslide – Fleetwood Mac
Released in 1975, Genre: Rock
Stevie Nicks wrote the song about her love romance as well as her relationship with her father. Other song covers include The Chicks and Boyce Avenue.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Well, I’ve been afraid of changin’
‘Cause I’ve built my life around you
Cat’s in the Cradle – Harry Chapin
Released in 1974, Genre: Rock
A song about a song growing up without his father being there very much and wanting him to be home more. The song continues to turn the tables as the dad gets older and wants to see more of his son than he visits.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And he was talking ‘fore I knew it, and as he grew
He’d say “I’m gonna be like you, dad”
Simple Man – Lynyrd Skynyrd
Released in 1973, Genre: Rock
A song about taking life as it comes and being who you are – a message from a parent to their son.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Oh don’t you worry you’ll find yourself
Follow your heart and nothing else
And you can do this oh babe if you try
All that I want for you my son is to be satisfied
Old Man – Neil Young
Released in 1972, Genre: Rock
The song compares an old man’s life to a young man’s life and how they need the same things – to love and be loved.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Old man take a look at my life
I’m a lot like you
Kooks – David Bowie
Released in 1971, Genre: Rock
Bowie wrote the song for his song. It is about parents who are eccentric but believe in and love their baby boy.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Soon you’ll grow so take a chance
With a couple of Kooks
You’ve Got A Friend – James Taylor
Released in 1971, Genre: Rock
A mid-tempo song talking about how lucky you are to be loved by the other.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
All you have to do is call
And I’ll be there
You’ve got a friend
The Captain and The Kid – Jimmy Buffett
Released in 1970, Genre: Rock
This is a song about a father taking his son sailing and cherishing those moments together. However, the song was written to honor his grandfather.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Tomorrow just a day away
For the captain and the kid
Father And Son – Cat Stevens
Released in 1970, Genre: Rock
The song is about a father giving his son advice on life including being thankful for what you have.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s not time to make a change (Away, away, away)
Just sit down, take it slowly
If you have a stepfather, see our list of stepfather songs.
Popular Pop Favorites
What Makes a Man – Ben Rector & Thomas Rhett
Released in 2022, Genre: Pop
The song is about a son reflecting on his father and how he was there for his kids but how the son is chasing his dreams and wondering if he will have regrets for doing so.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Chasin’ down some dream you’ve been imaginin’
Or is it making peace with who you are and where you stand?
I’m trying to find what makes a man
You Will Always Be My Son – Caleb and Kelsey
Released in 2022, Genre: Pop
A song about how a son should never question the love his parents have for him.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And no matter what this life might bringI want you to know that you will always beYou will always be my son
Not All Heroes Wear Capes – Owl City
Released in 2017, Genre: Pop
A song about a child thinking that their dad is their hero. Even though a dad may not say the words “I love you” he shows it through his actions.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
When he looks in my eyes I hope he can see
That my dad’s a hero to me
7 Years – Lukas Graham
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
A song about growing up and thoughts of getting older including his daddy telling him to “get a wife so that you will not be lonely”.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Once I was 11 years old, my daddy told me
Go get yourself a wife or you’ll be lonely
Father & Son – Rod Stewart
Released in 2006, Genre: Pop
A song about a father telling his son not to sweat the small stuff and enjoy life.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Find a girl, settle down, if you want you can marry
Look at me, I am old but I’m happy
If I Could – Barbra Streisand
Released in 1997, Genre: Pop
This is a message from a parent to a child wanting to share all of their life’s knowledge with them so that they can live a better life than they did and with less pain.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
If I could
I would try to shield your innocence from time
But the part of life I gave you isn’t mine.
I watched you grow
So I could let you go
Father And Son – Boyzone
Released in 1995, Genre: Pop
A song about a father instructing his son to get married as life is better when you have someone to share it with.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
If you want, you can marry
Look at me, I am old
But I’m happy
A Song For My Son – Mikki Viereck
Released in 1991, Genre: Pop
This is a song written specifically for a mother and son on their wedding day. However, the message can also be said from a father to his son – telling him to be a good man and that no matter how old we get, he will always be my son and I will be there to support him.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You filled my life
With so much joy
As I watched you grow
From that little boy
Father To Son – Phil Collins
Released in 1989, Genre: Pop
A song from a father to his son that lets him know that when he feels despair or like giving up not to worry because his father will always be there for support.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’ll always be with you don’t forget
Just look over your shoulder I’ll be there
Father To Son – Queen
Released in 1974, Genre: Pop
A song about how a message is passed from generation to generation that a father will always fight for a better future than what the father experienced.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Joyful the sound, the word goes around
From father to son
Dear Father – Neil Diamond
Released in 1973, Genre: Pop
A song about dreaming big and trying to be patient for those dreams to come true no matter how badly we want them to come true.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Dear Father
We dream
My Dad – Paul Petersen
Released in 1962, Genre: Pop
A song about how a dad may not have much fame or fortune but he is his son’s whole world.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And ev’ry one would say, “that’s his son”
and my heart would burst with pride
We cannot forget about mothers and daughters. See a list of songs about mothers and daughters.
Unique Celtic Tunes
The Old Man – John McDermott
Genre: Celtic
A song about a son losing his father and how the son will cherish memories of the two of them together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Though he may be gone memory lingers on
And I miss him… The Old Man
FAQs
Why have a father and son song during your wedding?
Father-son songs are special when a groom wishes to dedicate a special song to his father at the wedding reception.
You can use this song in a slideshow or it can be included in the DJ’s playlist for your wedding reception. If you plan to surprise your father, be sure to talk about it with your partner and a professional wedding coordinator.
This wouldn’t necessarily be a dance song. Rather, suggest playing a song in the middle of the wedding reception that everyone can dance to, whether it be a fast or slow song.
Of course, if you and your father are dancers, feel free to create a choreographed routine and bring in the groomsmen or the groom’s siblings.
This can be especially meaningful if the father has a milestone birthday near the wedding date. Heck, it could be the other way around. Maybe it’s the father’s second wedding and his son is turning 25. It’s completely up to you.
How do you choose a father-son song?
Set some time aside to think about what your father means to you (or vice versa). List some of the qualities he has that are meaningful to you. Journal notes about some special memories. If you do this while listening to our Spotify playlist, we’re certain one will resonate with you.
We recommend that you choose a song that conveys a special meaning between the father and his son. Think of a song where the lyrics speak to you. If a special song doesn’t come to your mind right away, don’t worry. We have 70 of the Top Father-Son gongs to choose from here.
Occasions for father-son songs
Father-Son songs aren’t just for your wedding reception. These sentimental songs can also be played to celebrate a milestone birthday, your Father’s retirement, or even Father’s Day. It is already a day to celebrate Fathers so why not dedicate a song to your father?
Fathers can also play the songs to celebrate the birth of their new baby boy, or their graduation, or to commemorate special bonding days like a fishing trip.
Music Sources:
- DJs’ Playlists
- Couples’ Playlists
- DJ Event Planner
- DJ Intelligence
- Amazon Best Sellers
- Billboard
- Spotify
Why trust ?
DJ, Editor, Music Lover
Matthew (Matt) Campbell is the founder/editor of My Wedding Songs from his experience as a wedding DJ. He is the author of two wedding planners: ‘Wedding Songs Planner’ and ‘The Wedding Music Toolkit’. Matt is the host of the ‘Wedding Songs Podcast’. He shares music inspiration in his weekly newsletter the ‘Wedding MusicLetter’. His articles have been published on Rolling Stone, DJ Life Magazine, and DJ Times. Matt resides in the wedding capital of the world – Las Vegas.
Wheeler Walker Jr. – All The Pussy You Will Slay
Thanks Mike for sharing. We will add it this week.
Drinking beer with dad by Kid Rock
Thank you Billy! The song has been added to the list.
He’s mine.
Rodney Atkins
Thanks Greg. We addded your song to the list.
Boy by Lee Brice
Thank you, Dwayne. We will be definitely adding it to our list.
bruce springsteen – independence day (from the album, the river)
Boston – the man I’ll never be
Thank you Gene! We will add your suggestions to the list!
Yesterday by Atmosphere
Thank you Marcos, great song! We will add it to the list.
Wish I could have been there- John Anderson
Thanks Nicole! We will add it to the list.
Gordon Bamford “Little Guy”
Thank you April. We will be sure to add it to the list!
Excellent song!! Touches that special part…. Love my boy!!
Hi Terry, Glad you like the list.
Elton John – The Last Song. Actually about a boy dying of AIDS, but a still beautiful reflection on the relationship with his father
Thanks Kevin for the suggestion. We will definitely add it to the list.
Babyface – The Day (You gave me a son)