I think the singer still doesn’t get the point at the end. The son doesn’t jet off to see his father, he stays home with his sick kids! They are his priority. Did the singer want his son to leave his kids when they need him. He’s still clueless.
You don't have to be any age to get choked up by this song. I lost my dad 3 years ago when I was 18. All those missed chances to be together have a different meaning now.
@@aneirins7085 my sympathies. but you took the comment the wrong way we weren't saying " we get it because we are older". we were saying " even though we are old and jaded , this still cuts like the first time "
One of my dad's favorite songs, and yet he ironically spent so much time chasing more money to buy his family more "stuff' because he thought that's what we'd want. No...we wanted more time with him, which is the most precious gift you can give someone--time. I supplied my son with less "stuff" than my dad did, but with more time together. I can see the difference in our strong relationship.
Definitely impacted how I raised my kids. My dad was too busy to come to football games, soccer games... I'd drive 80 mph from 60 miles away to make their soccer games (don't tell, lol). I remember once being in the furthest town from home that was my territory. There was no shortcut, no highway to get home. Leaving town the speed limit was 30 mph of course. At the edge of town was a long steep hill, and the speed opened up to 55. I was stuck behind grandma. Arrrrrgggghh. I finally got past her and took off. I had one more appointment to make on the way home in a town to the NE, about 3 or 4 miles off the main road. I stopped, met with the couple, helped them with their papers, send got going again. And who do I immediately catch up to? Grandma. Passed her a second tone and never looked back. Got to the game. I should also add that this song is on our son's playlist, even though we hadn't played it for him.
My dad was one of the founders of a successful company. I remember that he would either get on a plane or in a car and leave almost every Tuesday. He would not get back until Friday or Saturday. When he was around, he made time but it wasn't as much as I would have liked. Then this song came out and was on the radio all the time. It really shook Dad up. He hired and promoted several other people to do what he had been doing and was around a lot more. That lasted about 3 years until he died when I was 11. I remember him being in and out of the hospital all the time but nobody ever said the word "cancer" in front of me. Being the naive kid, I thought people went to hospitals to get well. I was not expecting his death. Dad died in 1975 and Mom lasted until 2003. Every time she heard this song, she broke down and cried. I remembered the song as a catchy tune and didn't listen to the words until I was in my late 30s. The it destroyed me and I break down on hearing it too. Dad always made the time. I will never forget those times.
@@matthewmcdaniel5827Yes, "Leader of the Band" by the late Dan Fogelberg....another poignant 'Dad' song that will touch you! Thanks Jamel....your pal....Paul
Also, "Taxi" by Harry Chapin, that tells a Dramatic story for six minutes that you'll hang on Every word......"It was raining Hard in Frisco, I had One more fair to make my night......" Studio version please....thanks Jamel...your friend....Paul
I was lucky! My Dad, no matter how tired, etc he always made time for me. I grew up to be like him and always made time for son. Now it's come full circle because now that I'm old and alone, my son always makes time for me.
22yrs as a soldier having deployed more times than I can count, and 22yrs as a truck driver with over 300 daze a year on the road, this song IS me. I've repaired my relationship with my son, more to his credit than mine. Time is the only non-replenishable resource, spend it wisely, spend it where it matters.
When I was 8 or 9 my family attended a Church and the Pastor preached a sermon based on the song and burst into tears several times, his son had passed away at age 8 due to illness and he always wondered had he spent enough time with him. He was a very good man and I have no doubt he did the best he could. Bless you Rev Nates.
My dad was also a pastor he dedicated his life to the church AND worked an 8hr day 40hr week sechular job to support a family of 6 children ... So figure how much time that left for me individually... When he passed I didn't shed tears ... A month passed when reflecting on characteristics I had inherent from him... I pulled up this song I've heard in the past and it helped me cry... My father was a good man... He did his best... for his JHVH God and family ... R.I.P my father
@@sallyphillips9175 ABSOLUTELY! No Father, on their death bed, says- "I wish I made more money". Quality time means a lot. Give your loved ones your complete attention, once in a while; it's good for them & good for you.
When I first heard this song, I vowed that if I ever had kids I'd make time for them. And I did. I never had anything I'd call a career but I coached both of them in various sports , rarely missed a play or performance while keeping food in our bellies and a roof over our heads. I don't have a lot of money now but I have two amazing kids who are now our their own, doing great,
Nice worda here Paul I've got a couple of young kids now and being a father definitely feels more important to me than my career. Money is nice but not the most important thing in life by a longshot.
My dad was in the service( VN )I was just a small kid and when he came home and heard this on the radio I could tell the song effected him . He worked hard juggling two jobs and spending time with the kids . I don't know how he did it all those years .Rip Pop you are missed !
I lived this with my dad. He was a career Navy man and I started like him and joined the Navy following his footsteps. But when I got married I broke that cycle and got out of the military to raise my children in person. Don't get me wrong my dad was my HERO!
That's what they called wisdom learning from other people's mistakes I'm not trying to say anything bad about your father but learning from your father's mistakes is wisdom
@@ronniemaclaine5234 There's a balancing act between giving your children enough material wealth to grow up healthy, but not too much that you spoil them and make them entitled. Sometimes pursuing that goal takes away time to be with them. Sometimes a parent has no choice, because they work hard just to keep everyone fed. But some parents get lost in the pursuit of more material possessions, thinking that "stuff" will make their children happy. No...being there with them will make them happy. Time is the most valuable gift there is, because you can't buy it...and you can't ever get it back once it's gone.
@Lee Salerno One of the best quotes ever!Very profound and sooo John Lennon.He would have been 80 yrs old this last Oct 9th.EIGHTY!! R.I.P. You will always be missed
@@jamesskelton2988 Yes Sir! John was a troubled Genius.. I can remember what I doing exactly when I saw the news hat he was killed.. I literally cried tears. RIP indeed :(
This song echoes my life and brings me to tears every time i hear it. When i was a little kid, dad was always busy working and providing. He was a great dad, but busy. When i got older and moved out, I wasn't around as much, but we actually spent some quality time together, with season tickets for hockey and weekly sushi dinners. But he told me one time "I hate that damned Harry Chapin song...." because it hit too close to home for him. He passed away 10 years ago. We had had a falling out that lasted several years, but had begun mending the relationship a year or so before he got sick. I am glad i was able to be with him, but I still hate those years wasted in pointless anger.. that time lost that I would give anything to have just one of those minutes with him again. And now, this song punches me in the gut every time i hear it because I am just like the boy in the song.... and I can't change the lost time.
Same experience here. Almost exactly, in fact. We mended the relationship and a minute later my father got sick and a minute after that he was gone. I'm not the most sentimental person in the world but there is some silly shit out here between fathers and sons and people in general that's gotta get worked out (and I mean immediately) come hell or high water. Else you'll have them haunting regrets damning the rest of your days...
As a father of 3 I can’t tell you how many times I deliberately listen to this song - so I don’t forget. You will never again see you’re child this young. Never again. Spend time with them. It will all be over much, much too soon. And it’s never coming back. I’ve never been able to listen to this song without tearing up.
I have 3 sons and I always made time for them now they are grown and if I can't see them all the time, I always call them. Before Covid my youngest son, now 23 used to go see the latest action movie.
The message Chapin was trying to get across was "This is not right. This has to change." The dad in the song was not in any way unusual - it was the typical thing in America then for dads simply not to be around.
PLAYFUL KITTEN nope, you're wrong. It's about the relationship between a father and his son. And the fact his son turned out just like him. Not always a good thing.
You reap what you sow... future consequences are inevitably shaped by present actions. In the song, the consequence was that his son turned out just like dad, and had no time for him, because of dad's actions (never being there for his son).
Harry came to my High School in1977 to talk to the Senior Humanities class about his work to end world hunger. There were about 50 of us in the class, and since he was a local hero for us on Long Island, it was so great to spend some time with him talking about this issue. He asked for our forgiveness for not playing any music since he wanted to focus on the cause, it just reinforced his commitment to this effort. I was just finishing up college in '81 when I heard the news that he passed away. He represents yet another side of the fantastic music to come out of the 70's. I always think of Jim Croce when I hear Harry's music, both were great storytellers and had a similar vibe to their music and they both died too young. Thanks for playing this Jamel and you pronounce his name "Chay-pin"
I grew up in Oceanside and my folks took us to his benefit shows every year. Those were really good times, A lot of the old folk singers from the Village days still lived in the area or came back regularly.
Harry played a benefit basketball game at my HS in 1975. Dumont HS in NJ. Geraldo Rivera was with him. Memories. Harry gives us this song as a warning and as a gift. Use it.....
I get goosebumps everytime I hear this. I loved it when my kids were little, and now they're grown men and I still love this song. Time flies way too fast. 😢 Life is what happens when you're making other plans....
I was lucky enough to have heard this song before I was a dad. It changed the way I parented my son & daughter. It's not often that a song affects me that way ...
Been a Harry Chapin fan since my early teens. I actually got a kiss after he signed my concert program. A couple of months later he was killed in that car crash. I bawled like a baby. The man was an artist and humanitarian
Aww, that's so sweet. What a happy memory for you, Kim. Cherish it. And I know what you mean. I remember how shocked I was to hear the news of his sudden death. Very sad. Death can happen in an instant, and so many people leave this world not prepared for the afterlife and eternity. Kim, I need to ask you this question because it's so important: Do you know for sure that when you die, you'll go to heaven? If not, the website below can help you to know for sure. It is an evangelistic, no spam website based on the 10 Commandments that will help you to see where you stand with God right now and where you will go when you die: heaven or hell. It's called a "good person test", but I call it a truth test, so when you take the test, it's very important that as you answer the questions, you listen to the voice of your conscience and be truthful with your answers, otherwise, you will not understand the seriousness of your sins and your need for the Savior's forgiveness You are my fellow human being, Kim, and I care about you and where you will spend eternity. Be well and stay safe. A Truth Test: www.goodpersontest.com (A no spam website.)
YES! A few of us tried to get him to listen to months ago. We were all coming up with songs that tell a story. That's how he ended up listening to "ODE TO BILLIE JOE".
Harry Chapin, the song's singer actually died at the age of 38 from a car accident on I-495 in 1981. It's believed the song is in reference to his son Josh, but... who really knows? It was actually first a poem written by his wife.
I heard his wife wrote the poem because she was concerned that in traveling all the time due to music he wasn’t spending enough time with their toddler son.
I am a 54 year old Canadian male. Grew up terrified of my father, his anger and violent outbursts. I was 17 when he threatened me for the last time. I told him if he hit me, that it would be last thing he ever did on Earth. Decades later, I have never married, never had kids as I was worried I would subject my wife and kids to the same experience. I realized much too late that I am NOT my father and that he is a part of me, but I am not him. This song strikes a chord for me on a different level. My hope is that for those men who find themselves in my shoes that you realize much sooner than I did, that you are NOT your dad, and you will not repeat the cycle.
My father had a temper, and we were afraid of him at times. There weren't a lot of physicality in his anger though. I promised not to raise my kids that way. I was only partly successful. I do have a temper, but I'm a little better at talking to my kids, apologizing when I was wrong, and debriefing with them. To me an apology is meaningless, unless you know what you're apologizing for, and take steps to correct. I'll hope that my kids do a better job than me. They're amazing kids. Don't regret your decision, though. It's very common to pass on how you were raised, even if you hated it. I'm hoping you've been able to share your wisdom with the families and children of the community. It's never too late to get married, to be a foster parent, to do Big Brothers.... Fill that hole in your life if you have one. I have lots of regrets for sure, luckily I found a woman who's put up with me (and for that matter, I, her), and we have 2 amazing kids, who'll I'll never hear from again in in a few years (lol). I can't even count on them coming to us for money, cause we don't got any, and they're both going to be successful. C'est la vie. I hardly hear from my very busy son and he's just a first year in college.
@@visforvegan8 Thanks for the reply. I appreciate your insight, and kind words. It sounds like you are doing the best job possible and kuddo's to you and your wife. I have learned in my life, it takes a real man to apologize. Good for you showing your kids this important trait.
Are you kidding me? Other than the fact I'm a few years older than you, you've described my " Never really had a father, never gonna be a father " existence. Wow
Hey my parents went to a Harry Chapin concert and there was a break during the concert, my mother needed to use a pay phone. Just so happened when she walked up to the pay phone Harry was using it LOL. My mom got all jittery so Harry kissed her on the cheek LOL. She said she almost passed out. Here’s to keeping great music alive! R.I.P. Harry
Harry played my college homecoming in the fall of 1975. His brother Tom was the opening act and was playing for a long time. He finally saw that we were getting restless so he explained Harry was across the street in the basement of a boys dorm watching the World Series with the students. Turns out he was a huge Reds fan. Harry finally came on stage and gave an incredible concert.
This song had a great effect on my parenting style. My dad was career Air Force, and I was career Army. When I was medically retired, I did not fight it because I just wanted to spend more time with my kids. I'm very happy that my adult kids enjoy hanging out with me.
As I my husband and I were raising our child we always taught him how important family is, as he was growing up we spent as much time as we could with family. We had get togethers, family vacations, if family was sick or needed help we were there. We always tried to lead by example. Our son is 22 yrs old and family is so important to him. I’m so thankful.
Every time i hear this song can't help but tear up Just yesterday my youngest son who's 26 was in the grocery store this song was playing. He said why they playing this song now all I could do was smile..lol I brought my 3 son's up listening to 60's 70's and 80's music.. the same way my sisters brought me up on the same music...love it!!
Jamel... Brother... One of my all time favorites. I remember listening to this with my Dad. My Dad said this is one of the saddest songs ever because the relationship was so lost. That said, I was blessed to spend some good times with my Dad. He left me a month before my 17th birthday to get back together with his Heavenly Father. I've done the best I could to be like the greatest Man I've ever known. My Son is 19 now, so I've known my Baby Boy longer than I knew my Father, and you know time with him and his Baby Sister, 16, is the most precious time in my life.
“When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years.” ― Mark Twain (note: there is some question if Twain actually said it, but that is a discussion for another time)
Another song that evokes similar emotions (and often tears) in me is 'The Living Years' by Mike and the Mechanics. It's about communicating with those we love while they're still here with us, before it's too late.
@Marcus Jones dude, if you are going to bash people for their opinion of this song take an English lesson first. I had brain cramps just reading your post.
@Marcus Jones No. The point of the song is that you should spend time with your children while you have the time. The voice of the song mistakenly prioritised work over quality family time. It would have been better if he earned less and provided more love to his son.
I am with you here. Miss my dad too and I was spared because he went fast but I don't know that I will ever fully recover from it but his strength and dignity makes it not all bad.
Such a moving song. I was a kid when this came out and it killed me even then. Please check out "Taxi" . Harry Chapin was a bard- a storyteller of the highest order.
I would give my life for just one minute with my daughter. She was taken when she was 3 1/2 in 1977 and I have cried every day since. Sorry to be a bummer on your channel but...
Nothing makes you feel "older" than seeing how much the kids in the family have grown when you haven't seen them in a while. Time & tide wait for no man..
When y'all get a moment check the story behind this song and Harry himself. It gives a far more prophetic twist to it. The song would frighten the heart out of him given that it was something his wife would sing in part (the chorus) to his son. Tragically a few years later harry would die on the way to a gig. His son was only 10 at the time.
@@kathybwell He was heading down the freeway to a gig when he crashed . It was suspected he had a heart attack. He was resuscitated at the scene, but was DOA at the hospital. He was 38 years old.
@@darrinlindsey It's often worth a look down the rabbit hole to see why a song was written and performed. There's an inspiration to art and a story to be told :)
I was headed home from work here on Long Island ...driving west on the Long Island Expressway when I passed Harrys vehicle. He had crashed and the car went on fire. He had a heart attack and hit a semi truck as he was heading to a free outdoor concert later that evening at Eisenhower Park here on LI. He was 15 minutes away from where he was headed That was a tragic day. He was and remains very loved. One of the most prolific songwriters this world was blessed to have.
The inspiration for the song was actually a poem his wife had written that was inspired by her previous husband, who was essentially the son in the story and his father had raised him to be career driven. The father would ask her to get him to visit once in a while because they had stopped communicating.
One of the truly great storytellers. Most of his songs were so long they didn't get played on the radio. He died too young but left a great legacy. His son (who was only 10 when Harry died) said people come up to him all the time and tell them how this song changed their lives. Rest in peace Harry. We miss you.
I remember when he died...in an automobile accident if I remember correctly....soooo many years ago. As with everything time keeps marching on and before you know it decades have flown by.
I'm over half a century old. This song is forever a classic. I love musical exploration and have found many such culturally/socially relevant songs in rock & roll, blues, jazz, pop, hip-hop... everything. That is what makes a tune a classic...when it testifies to the struggle of the people. At least that is what makes a classic in my geezerly, life-observing opinion.
On the day my Dad died he said he was sorry for not doing much with me and my brother. I looked at him and said it's ok I Love you anyway. That was back in 1992 .
Harry Chapin’s “The Shortest Story” never fails to make me cry. If you haven’t heard the song, it’s about a starving newborn baby. Probably the saddest song ever written, with the possible exception of Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven”.
@@anyamanning9427 "Tears in Heaven" is an excellent and sad Clapton song for his dead son, but the starvation of children around the globe like in "The Shortest Story" continues on, sadly. I think this is why the Harry Chapin Food Bank is in almost every town and city in America which is still a legacy and a blessing from Mr. Chapin after almost 50 years. He was a great storyteller/songwriter. "Taxi" was his biggest hit.
This song definitely has some of the autobiographical in it. Harry Chapin's dad was a musician who was rarely around, and he started to worry that he was repeating the cycle.
Don't be hard on yourself. Things come to pass for a reason. Allow yourself to forgive yourself - and maybe forgive your father too. After all, he was the parent. Your parent. You're his child - too easily forgotten when we "grow up". All the best.
@@Greenockianx That's the best advice one human can give another. Forgive yourself. I've had to forgive myself for so many things in my life. Especially where my father was concerned. I wasn't speaking to him for a couple of years until he came to me to tell me he was dying of liver cancer. He asked me not to cry. I didn't. He went on to tell me that he would not be battling for his last days to be poisoned which is something I wouldn't have asked of him as I would have made the same choice. I told him some years earlier when he was trying to make amends for his past deeds that NOBODY HAD EVER TAUGHT HIM TO BE A MAN. I saw a light bulb go off in his head. It was the truth. I believe he forgave himself at that moment. He was finally able to be my dad. I miss him so much.
@Kimberly Scheper~I hope you will forgive yourself. Even if you're not sure how to do it, just say out loud; "I forgive myself" I guarantee you'll feel better before you realize it. Peace.
Ugly Kid Joe did a decent cover of this, but you'll never have remorse going to the source. I'm blessed to have made amends with my Dad before the end.
I think they asked his family first & ran their recording by them before releasing it. The impression i got it is if it wasn't cool with them they wer'nt gona release it.
I always have a difficult time liking covers. I want to. I thought Ugly Kid Joe's cover was listen-worthy. I was also surprised by Uncle Kracker's cover of "Drift Away."
49 years old and I still can't get through this song without tears. It hits really close to home for me, and could just as well be telling the story of me and my dad. 😢
Love the appreciation you show for the music in your facial expressions. How you FEEL the music and let it flow through you without missing the message. You didn't dissect it the way I have seen others do, didn't mention vocals or orchestral arrangement, just the purity of the message that Chapin was really trying to convey. Thanks for your reaction to this timeless classic with a moral story.
“Taxi” is a must. One of my favorite Harry Chapin songs is “Sniper”. It’s an extremely intense song but his portrayal of the Sniper is incredible and emotional.
Kids need their parents! Both of them. There is never an excuse not to give all of your to your child. I have failed in most aspects of my life, but the one thing i am proud of is the love for my daughter. She knows how much I love her. We have been close since the day she was born. And she has given me so much more than I could give her. I have heard "I love you, daddy" countless times...and it never gets old
"A Better Place to Be" and "Mr. Tanner" are for advanced Chapin-heads. "Cats" and "Bananas" is for beginners with "Taxi" and "WOLD" for the intermediates.
Like Jamel said in the video there has to be a balance. I think this song is more about working too hard to advance your career and give your family better material goods when what they really need is you.
Jamel, I appreciate so much the fact that you quiet yourself before you listen to all these tunes so you can truly appreciate the history, musicality, and lyric craftsmanship of the songs of the 60s and 70s. I dig your reaction channel. God Bless You for sharing.
mothers naturally get this connection to their child from breastfeeding, but fathers kinda have to "work for it" by playing with their children, we also criminally undervalue how important fathers are to their children and also how important children are to men
Did you know the song in the vid was actually based on an old folk song or rhyme she used to sing to their son. The chorus and title were what she sang and inspired Harry to do the rest.
@@cudwieser3952 No. Did not know that. But he was such a great fixture on the North Shore of Long Island until his passing. I still remember his beautiful yard and mingling amongst his friends who all seemed like special people. But for some reason, all these years later, I mainly recall her wonderful (momish) smile as she walked us over to the giant buffet table to eat. We weren't poor kids at all. We left a boring party down the block, we were kinda drunk, and somehow we ended in there backyard lol. We just followed the music.
@@claviclenotch1876 His greatest muse and the reason he had a life at all. Kinda shows where greatness lies, not in the eyes of others, but in the hearts of those who care.
One of my favorite all time songs and artists. I'm 44 and first discovered Harry Chapin when I listened to my parents cassette tape of Harry Chapin Greatest Hits Live so much I wore the words off of it. Later in life I got his 3 disc set that had almost his entire library on it and I truly think he was one of the most gifted song writers ever that was taken way too soon.
Jamel, You are so amazing on your reactions, right away you got the lyrics, your reactions are so beautiful & sincere & honest . The world lost him so young , Just like John Denver , Jim Croce & Otis Redding , Buddy Holly & Stevie Ray Vaughan & so many other great artists. I cry when I hear this song . RIP Harry ❤️🙏😢What a loss .
I am glad you listened to this song!! I loved this song from a female's point of view. My dad worked hard on the railroad. And I always wanted to be just like him, strong minded and strong at my job. He showed me family values. I made sure I took care of my parents. Just to show them how much I loved them. Since they took care of me😇😇😇😇😇😇
This song basically summarises mine and my dad's relationship. We haven't talked since 2011. The moral of the story, is basically be there for your child. Nourish them teach them. Set them up for life, because life is hard. And unfortunately I had to learn the life lessons by myself. All the female influences in my life were/are fantastic, but you need somebody who you can relate to at the most basic level. And for us boys, we have our dads. I barely had mine. Take heed, gentlemen. Do the right thing.
Callum my dad died before I could tell him I forgave him and myself for what came between us. And that I loved him. He asked continuously until life support was removed. Where is my boy? I just found out 19 yrs later and 2 days before seeing this post that he didn't know why I apparently hated him. Which I didn't. Callum take/make the time to reconcile. It will be one of the most important things in life you will regret if you don't.
Came here to say what Gene said. As I get older, I find out what both my parents lived through as kids. Forgiveness came easy once I knew WHY they were like they were. I promise your dad loves you.
Mr. Jamel, thank you for 1) your knowledge of music, 2) your entertainment (you make me laugh and cry at the same time), and 3) the great messages you give us all. We all need to listen Sir!
This is one of the great "story songs" that while using modern (for the time) instruments and effects, always reminds me of old folk songs where the song tells a whole story. Very good review and loved your insights on the song.
The folkiness partly comes from the songs origins. The chorus was part of an old folk song Harry's wife would sing to their son, while harry was away at gigs. Harry heard his wife singing one day and took it from there. Add to that the story is very reflective of Harry's life, something he admitted scared him. Harry was forever on the road trying to get enough gigs to pay the bills. Every time he'd see his son he was that much older. Tragically Harry would not live the story in the song. On his way to a gig in 1981 he had a massive heart attack while driving on the freeway causing a crash. He was revived at the scene, but would be doa at the hospital. He was 38 years old, his son only 10.
This is my child hood. Croce, Taylor, Lightfoot, etc etc etc they wrote from the heart and it makes me cry. This song was a MAJOR influence with spending time with my son. MAJOR
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can you do a reaction to Seals and Crofts Summer Breeze
Poignant.
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Wow that really hit me off guard😭! Got kids, one is 15, dude I feel this so hard!
One of the saddest and most truthful songs ever written.
Correction - The saddest and most truthful song ever written!!!
So true.
I think the singer still doesn’t get the point at the end. The son doesn’t jet off to see his father, he stays home with his sick kids! They are his priority. Did the singer want his son to leave his kids when they need him. He’s still clueless.
@@MrAlphapug No, you don't get the point at the end; he was just making up excuses to ignore him the way he felt ignored growing up.
@@MrAlphapug The singer doesn't get the point of his own lyrics? lol
I am a sixty-year-old man and I still get choked up whenever I hear this song. Classic.
same.. 50 not 60..but..same.
Same here. I'm 60 years old and lost my dad 2 years ago and this song hits too close to home.
Me too , on both.
You don't have to be any age to get choked up by this song. I lost my dad 3 years ago when I was 18. All those missed chances to be together have a different meaning now.
@@aneirins7085 my sympathies. but you took the comment the wrong way
we weren't saying " we get it because we are older".
we were saying " even though we are old and jaded , this still cuts like the first time "
This song has probably opened more Fathers eyes than any song ever!
One of my dad's favorite songs, and yet he ironically spent so much time chasing more money to buy his family more "stuff' because he thought that's what we'd want. No...we wanted more time with him, which is the most precious gift you can give someone--time. I supplied my son with less "stuff" than my dad did, but with more time together. I can see the difference in our strong relationship.
Definitely impacted how I raised my kids. My dad was too busy to come to football games, soccer games... I'd drive 80 mph from 60 miles away to make their soccer games (don't tell, lol). I remember once being in the furthest town from home that was my territory. There was no shortcut, no highway to get home. Leaving town the speed limit was 30 mph of course. At the edge of town was a long steep hill, and the speed opened up to 55. I was stuck behind grandma. Arrrrrgggghh. I finally got past her and took off. I had one more appointment to make on the way home in a town to the NE, about 3 or 4 miles off the main road. I stopped, met with the couple, helped them with their papers, send got going again. And who do I immediately catch up to? Grandma.
Passed her a second tone and never looked back. Got to the game.
I should also add that this song is on our son's playlist, even though we hadn't played it for him.
@@visforvegan8 me too brother. I was a different dad ... because of this song.
💯
Clearly not enough.
My dad was one of the founders of a successful company. I remember that he would either get on a plane or in a car and leave almost every Tuesday. He would not get back until Friday or Saturday. When he was around, he made time but it wasn't as much as I would have liked. Then this song came out and was on the radio all the time. It really shook Dad up. He hired and promoted several other people to do what he had been doing and was around a lot more. That lasted about 3 years until he died when I was 11. I remember him being in and out of the hospital all the time but nobody ever said the word "cancer" in front of me. Being the naive kid, I thought people went to hospitals to get well. I was not expecting his death.
Dad died in 1975 and Mom lasted until 2003. Every time she heard this song, she broke down and cried. I remembered the song as a catchy tune and didn't listen to the words until I was in my late 30s. The it destroyed me and I break down on hearing it too.
Dad always made the time. I will never forget those times.
My heart hurts for you.
Bless you son !! Thank you for sharing!!
Bless you! Thank you for sharing your heartfelt story.
🙏🏼❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Your comment made me cry. I am so glad your father heard this song and made time for you with the little time he turned out to have left.
One song that is so moving, and stands the test of time.
This, and "leader of the band"
Sure does. Puts a lump in the throat every time you hear it...
@@matthewmcdaniel5827Yes, "Leader of the Band" by the late Dan Fogelberg....another poignant
'Dad' song that will touch you! Thanks Jamel....your pal....Paul
Also, "Taxi" by Harry Chapin, that tells a Dramatic story for six minutes that you'll hang on Every word......"It was raining Hard in Frisco, I had One more fair to make my night......" Studio version please....thanks Jamel...your friend....Paul
@@pempem9129
I was lucky! My Dad, no matter how tired, etc he always made time for me. I grew up to be like him and always made time for son. Now it's come full circle because now that I'm old and alone, my son always makes time for me.
Even if it's only a minute to talk or a guiding hand with whatever they do, it's worth so much no matter how far away they may be.
God bless you both. Our family is all we have in this world most of the time
It’s true that the apple doesn’t
fall far from the tree 💗
How wonderful for you. 🙂
22yrs as a soldier having deployed more times than I can count, and 22yrs as a truck driver with over 300 daze a year on the road, this song IS me. I've repaired my relationship with my son, more to his credit than mine. Time is the only non-replenishable resource, spend it wisely, spend it where it matters.
When I was 8 or 9 my family attended a Church and the Pastor preached a sermon based on the song and burst into tears several times, his son had passed away at age 8 due to illness and he always wondered had he spent enough time with him. He was a very good man and I have no doubt he did the best he could. Bless you Rev Nates.
My dad was also a pastor he dedicated his life to the church AND worked an 8hr day 40hr week sechular job to support a family of 6 children ...
So figure how much time that left for me individually...
When he passed I didn't shed tears ...
A month passed when reflecting on characteristics I had inherent from him...
I pulled up this song I've heard in the past and it helped me cry...
My father was a good man...
He did his best... for his JHVH God and family ...
R.I.P my father
Such a thought provoking song. A lesson for every parent everywhere.
Yes. Never take loved ones for granted. They can be taken away from you in a split second, like Harry died in a car wreck.
Amen to that!
@@sallyphillips9175 ABSOLUTELY! No Father, on their death bed, says- "I wish I made more money". Quality time means a lot. Give your loved ones your complete attention, once in a while; it's good for them & good for you.
Remember getting the 45 record when it came out..great story telling song.
Is that your cat in the cradle?
When I first heard this song, I vowed that if I ever had kids I'd make time for them. And I did. I never had anything I'd call a career but I coached both of them in various sports , rarely missed a play or performance while keeping food in our bellies and a roof over our heads. I don't have a lot of money now but I have two amazing kids who are now our their own, doing great,
Respect.
You have your priorities right.
Nice worda here Paul I've got a couple of young kids now and being a father definitely feels more important to me than my career. Money is nice but not the most important thing in life by a longshot.
Love it
You did great
I did similar things with my kids. I tried so hard. I love them deeply
I never worked so much that i missed her dancing.and his sports.
Congratulations imtallpaul. It's nice to read stories like yours.
A life of regret put down into a 3 minute long song perfectly. It's such a great, eternal piece of music.
My dad was in the service( VN )I was just a small kid and when he came home and heard this on the radio I could tell the song effected him . He worked hard juggling two jobs and spending time with the kids . I don't know how he did it all those years .Rip Pop you are missed !
This song makes me cry every time I hear it.
I'm crying right now!!!
I lived this with my dad. He was a career Navy man and I started like him and joined the Navy following his footsteps. But when I got married I broke that cycle and got out of the military to raise my children in person. Don't get me wrong my dad was my HERO!
That's what they called wisdom learning from other people's mistakes I'm not trying to say anything bad about your father but learning from your father's mistakes is wisdom
@@ronniemaclaine5234 There's a balancing act between giving your children enough material wealth to grow up healthy, but not too much that you spoil them and make them entitled. Sometimes pursuing that goal takes away time to be with them. Sometimes a parent has no choice, because they work hard just to keep everyone fed. But some parents get lost in the pursuit of more material possessions, thinking that "stuff" will make their children happy. No...being there with them will make them happy.
Time is the most valuable gift there is, because you can't buy it...and you can't ever get it back once it's gone.
"Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans" J. Lennon
My favourite quote ever.
@@kerryangus3030 he was a misunderstood Genius..I remember the exact moment when I heard he was shot.. it broke me down.
@@Lee4364 Same.
@Lee Salerno One of the best quotes ever!Very profound and sooo John Lennon.He would have been 80 yrs old this last Oct 9th.EIGHTY!! R.I.P. You will always be missed
@@jamesskelton2988 Yes Sir! John was a troubled Genius.. I can remember what I doing exactly when I saw the news hat he was killed.. I literally cried tears. RIP indeed :(
As a retired military Father of two sons, this song hits home hard every time I hear it.
Mike + the Mechanics, "The Living Years", and watch the drummer's face, he wrote the song.
That one too.
I've requested it a few times, I can't wait.
Excellent choice.
Another one that kills me. That, and Leader of The Band.
I believe Jamel has reacted to Genesis so it would be a good one to do soon
When we die, we don’t regret the things we did. We regret the things we didn’t do. Peace!
My sister works at an old folks home and she said the same thing they never regretted what they did they always regret they didn't do
Back in the 60's growing up my dad had to work 2 jobs to give us a good life. I respect him very much.
This song echoes my life and brings me to tears every time i hear it. When i was a little kid, dad was always busy working and providing. He was a great dad, but busy. When i got older and moved out, I wasn't around as much, but we actually spent some quality time together, with season tickets for hockey and weekly sushi dinners. But he told me one time "I hate that damned Harry Chapin song...." because it hit too close to home for him. He passed away 10 years ago. We had had a falling out that lasted several years, but had begun mending the relationship a year or so before he got sick. I am glad i was able to be with him, but I still hate those years wasted in pointless anger.. that time lost that I would give anything to have just one of those minutes with him again. And now, this song punches me in the gut every time i hear it because I am just like the boy in the song.... and I can't change the lost time.
Same experience here. Almost exactly, in fact. We mended the relationship and a minute later my father got sick and a minute after that he was gone. I'm not the most sentimental person in the world but there is some silly shit out here between fathers and sons and people in general that's gotta get worked out (and I mean immediately) come hell or high water. Else you'll have them haunting regrets damning the rest of your days...
As a father of 3 I can’t tell you how many times I deliberately listen to this song - so I don’t forget.
You will never again see you’re child this young. Never again. Spend time with them.
It will all be over much, much too soon. And it’s never coming back.
I’ve never been able to listen to this song without tearing up.
I'm sure Harry Chapin would be happy to learn he helped you spend more time with your kids.
@@jonathanross149 Thanks, my friend!
I’m pretty sure that was one of his intentions with this song. 👍
@Marcus Jones Would you mind rephrasing that without the “idiot” part and some more details? I don’t understand your comment.
I have 3 sons and I always made time for them now they are grown and if I can't see them all the time, I always call them. Before Covid my youngest son, now 23 used to go see the latest action movie.
In this role now. Just had our 3rd. I have a 2 year old, 1 year old, and a newborn. I try to listen to this song everyday.
This song sends a strong message; a warning, if you will. The moral of the story is, you reap what you sow.
A lesson in priorities.
The message Chapin was trying to get across was "This is not right. This has to change." The dad in the song was not in any way unusual - it was the typical thing in America then for dads simply not to be around.
PLAYFUL KITTEN nope, you're wrong. It's about the relationship between a father and his son. And the fact his son turned out just like him. Not always a good thing.
You reap what you sow? More like life is what happens while you're busy making other plans.
You reap what you sow... future consequences are inevitably shaped by present actions. In the song, the consequence was that his son turned out just like dad, and had no time for him, because of dad's actions (never being there for his son).
Don't worry about giving your kids 'Quality Time" just gives your kids time, any time.
Whenever my dad missed me... we were in different states. He would tell me “cats in the cradle son”. My Dad passed and I miss him.
Harry came to my High School in1977 to talk to the Senior Humanities class about his work to end world hunger. There were about 50 of us in the class, and since he was a local hero for us on Long Island, it was so great to spend some time with him talking about this issue. He asked for our forgiveness for not playing any music since he wanted to focus on the cause, it just reinforced his commitment to this effort. I was just finishing up college in '81 when I heard the news that he passed away. He represents yet another side of the fantastic music to come out of the 70's. I always think of Jim Croce when I hear Harry's music, both were great storytellers and had a similar vibe to their music and they both died too young. Thanks for playing this Jamel and you pronounce his name "Chay-pin"
I grew up in Oceanside and my folks took us to his benefit shows every year. Those were really good times, A lot of the old folk singers from the Village days still lived in the area or came back regularly.
Harry played a benefit basketball game at my HS in 1975. Dumont HS in NJ. Geraldo Rivera was with him. Memories.
Harry gives us this song as a warning and as a gift. Use it.....
Glad you mentioned Croce. I always think of them as a pair, as well. Very similar and died way too soon.
@@markgarber3465 Massapequa for me. Good Long Island vibe here.
I cannot listen to this song without having tears roll down my face.😢
same
Me too.
Sitting here listening and fighting back tears!😢
I get goosebumps everytime I hear this. I loved it when my kids were little, and now they're grown men and I still love this song. Time flies way too fast. 😢
Life is what happens when you're making other plans....
I was lucky enough to have heard this song before I was a dad. It changed the way I parented my son & daughter. It's not often that a song affects me that way ...
Been a Harry Chapin fan since my early teens. I actually got a kiss after he signed my concert program. A couple of months later he was killed in that car crash. I bawled like a baby.
The man was an artist and humanitarian
I had a similar experience. He performed a one-man show at my college and was killed a few weeks later. 😞
Aww, that's so sweet. What a happy memory for you, Kim. Cherish it. And I know what you mean. I remember how shocked I was to hear the news of his sudden death. Very sad.
Death can happen in an instant, and so many people leave this world not prepared for the afterlife and eternity. Kim, I need to ask you this question because it's so important:
Do you know for sure that when you die, you'll go to heaven? If not, the website below can help you to know for sure. It is an evangelistic, no spam website based on the 10 Commandments that will help you to see where you stand with God right now and where you will go when you die: heaven or hell. It's called a "good person test", but I call it a truth test, so when you take the test, it's very important that as you answer the questions, you listen to the voice of your conscience and be truthful with your answers, otherwise, you will not understand the seriousness of your sins and your need for the Savior's forgiveness
You are my fellow human being, Kim, and I care about you and where you will spend eternity.
Be well and stay safe.
A Truth Test:
www.goodpersontest.com
(A no spam website.)
Covin- ‘One Tin Soldier’ is another beautiful song worth a listen.
th-cam.com/video/djKjeWg5-vk/w-d-xo.html
Agreed, but id say listen to the original version by The Original Caste
Love that song 😍
Coven. (As in witches.) :)
YES! A few of us tried to get him to listen to months ago. We were all coming up with songs that tell a story. That's how he ended up listening to "ODE TO BILLIE JOE".
Harry Chapin, the song's singer actually died at the age of 38 from a car accident on I-495 in 1981. It's believed the song is in reference to his son Josh, but... who really knows? It was actually first a poem written by his wife.
I heard his wife wrote the poem because she was concerned that in traveling all the time due to music he wasn’t spending enough time with their toddler son.
I am a 54 year old Canadian male. Grew up terrified of my father, his anger and violent outbursts. I was 17 when he threatened me for the last time. I told him if he hit me, that it would be last thing he ever did on Earth. Decades later, I have never married, never had kids as I was worried I would subject my wife and kids to the same experience. I realized much too late that I am NOT my father and that he is a part of me, but I am not him. This song strikes a chord for me on a different level. My hope is that for those men who find themselves in my shoes that you realize much sooner than I did, that you are NOT your dad, and you will not repeat the cycle.
My father had a temper, and we were afraid of him at times. There weren't a lot of physicality in his anger though. I promised not to raise my kids that way. I was only partly successful. I do have a temper, but I'm a little better at talking to my kids, apologizing when I was wrong, and debriefing with them. To me an apology is meaningless, unless you know what you're apologizing for, and take steps to correct. I'll hope that my kids do a better job than me. They're amazing kids.
Don't regret your decision, though. It's very common to pass on how you were raised, even if you hated it. I'm hoping you've been able to share your wisdom with the families and children of the community. It's never too late to get married, to be a foster parent, to do Big Brothers.... Fill that hole in your life if you have one. I have lots of regrets for sure, luckily I found a woman who's put up with me (and for that matter, I, her), and we have 2 amazing kids, who'll I'll never hear from again in in a few years (lol). I can't even count on them coming to us for money, cause we don't got any, and they're both going to be successful. C'est la vie. I hardly hear from my very busy son and he's just a first year in college.
@@visforvegan8 Thanks for the reply. I appreciate your insight, and kind words. It sounds like you are doing the best job possible and kuddo's to you and your wife. I have learned in my life, it takes a real man to apologize. Good for you showing your kids this important trait.
Are you kidding me?
Other than the fact I'm a few years older than you, you've described my " Never really had a father, never gonna be a father " existence. Wow
@@shawnobray2202 Thanks for the reply. You summed up succinctly what I was trying to say.
Deep.
Harry was a great story teller through his songs. Now, you must, must, MUST, react to “Taxi” by Harry.
Hey my parents went to a Harry Chapin concert and there was a break during the concert, my mother needed to use a pay phone. Just so happened when she walked up to the pay phone Harry was using it LOL. My mom got all jittery so Harry kissed her on the cheek LOL. She said she almost passed out. Here’s to keeping great music alive! R.I.P. Harry
Nice story!
Cool, what's a pay phone... Just kidding, haven't seen one in a long time.
Problem calling his Dad...If he was still alive
Harry played my college homecoming in the fall of 1975. His brother Tom was the opening act and was playing for a long time. He finally saw that we were getting restless so he explained Harry was across the street in the basement of a boys dorm watching the World Series with the students. Turns out he was a huge Reds fan. Harry finally came on stage and gave an incredible concert.
This song had a great effect on my parenting style. My dad was career Air Force, and I was career Army. When I was medically retired, I did not fight it because I just wanted to spend more time with my kids.
I'm very happy that my adult kids enjoy hanging out with me.
As I my husband and I were raising our child we always taught him how important family is, as he was growing up we spent as much time as we could with family. We had get togethers, family vacations, if family was sick or needed help we were there. We always tried to lead by example. Our son is 22 yrs old and family is so important to him. I’m so thankful.
Makes me cry even at 60 yrs old to hear this. My life almost exactly. One reason i never had children..
I'm 52, and I still tear up every single time I hear this song (and I have heard it thousands of times)... Thanks for sharing your reaction!
Every time i hear this song can't help but tear up
Just yesterday my youngest son who's 26 was in the grocery store this song was playing. He said why they playing this song now all I could do was smile..lol I brought my 3 son's up listening to 60's 70's and 80's music.. the same way my sisters brought me up on the same music...love it!!
Jamel... Brother... One of my all time favorites. I remember listening to this with my Dad. My Dad said this is one of the saddest songs ever because the relationship was so lost. That said, I was blessed to spend some good times with my Dad. He left me a month before my 17th birthday to get back together with his Heavenly Father. I've done the best I could to be like the greatest Man I've ever known. My Son is 19 now, so I've known my Baby Boy longer than I knew my Father, and you know time with him and his Baby Sister, 16, is the most precious time in my life.
To your point, I'm fond of saying the older we get, the smarter our parents are.
“When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years.”
― Mark Twain
(note: there is some question if Twain actually said it, but that is a discussion for another time)
You need to hear Harry Chapin's Taxi
th-cam.com/video/VfYY0pbThUc/w-d-xo.html
This song always made me choke up, and now I've been kept apart from my son for a year by Covid...
Another song that evokes similar emotions (and often tears) in me is 'The Living Years' by Mike and the Mechanics. It's about communicating with those we love while they're still here with us, before it's too late.
If there was ever a song of my life, this is it, sadly...
Mines "I am a Rock" by Simon & Garfunkel.
Me too.
You’re not alone.
I had a real good example of what NOT to do. I did a little better job. But I don't know how much.
Bless you man...
Now you need to listen to "taxi" by Harry Chapin. the first part of his last name is with a long a, like in shape. :)
Yes!!!
Like Chay-pin?
Taxi. One of the absolute greatest songs ever.
Absolutely. "Taxi" is a masterpiece.
Also one of my favorites! Such a story through words and music!
"A man who doesn't spend time with his family can never be called a real man."
- Vito Corleone
The Godfather Part 1 reference and I agree with the sentiment.
@Marcus Jones dude, if you are going to bash people for their opinion of this song take an English lesson first. I had brain cramps just reading your post.
@Marcus Jones nah...sorry bro. Raised by both parents. Also passed English in high school. Homework...you should have done it.
Guys, guys. Let's not argue. Best way to solve this is to NEVER get married and NEVER have children. You're welcome.
@Marcus Jones No. The point of the song is that you should spend time with your children while you have the time. The voice of the song mistakenly prioritised work over quality family time. It would have been better if he earned less and provided more love to his son.
This one means a lot to me. Harry was my neighbor when I was a kid. He lived right down the block. And my dad was a busy guy too. Thanks Jamel
My Dad passed away 9 years ago as of yesterday. Sure miss him! He was the best! Always there for me. I helped take care of him at the end.
My dad passed away 25 years ago last Christmas and I still miss him.
I am with you here. Miss my dad too and I was spared because he went fast but I don't know that I will ever fully recover from it but his strength and dignity makes it not all bad.
You grew up just like him?
Such a moving song. I was a kid when this came out and it killed me even then.
Please check out "Taxi" . Harry Chapin was a bard- a storyteller of the highest order.
I would give my life for just one minute with my daughter.
She was taken when she was 3 1/2 in 1977 and I have cried every day since.
Sorry to be a bummer on your channel but...
Families will be together again. And this few years compared to eternities will seem a brief moment. Though here pretty tough. God bless
god bless you and your angel in heaven.
I’m so sorry 😢
I can't imagine how painful it must be to listen to this song knowing it describes your life as a father.
Its pretty painful to be the son too😢
@anthonyfoldetta862 Or the mother. When you know you could have done better.
Nothing makes you feel "older" than seeing how much the kids in the family have grown when you haven't seen them in a while. Time & tide wait for no man..
When y'all get a moment check the story behind this song and Harry himself. It gives a far more prophetic twist to it. The song would frighten the heart out of him given that it was something his wife would sing in part (the chorus) to his son. Tragically a few years later harry would die on the way to a gig. His son was only 10 at the time.
What a tragic twist, so sad.
@@kathybwell He was heading down the freeway to a gig when he crashed . It was suspected he had a heart attack. He was resuscitated at the scene, but was DOA at the hospital. He was 38 years old.
Wow! I did not know this.
@@darrinlindsey It's often worth a look down the rabbit hole to see why a song was written and performed. There's an inspiration to art and a story to be told :)
I was headed home from work here on Long Island ...driving west on the Long Island Expressway when I passed Harrys vehicle. He had crashed and the car went on fire. He had a heart attack and hit a semi truck as he was heading to a free outdoor concert later that evening at Eisenhower Park here on LI. He was 15 minutes away from where he was headed
That was a tragic day. He was and remains very loved. One of the most prolific songwriters this world was blessed to have.
The inspiration for the song was actually a poem his wife had written that was inspired by her previous husband, who was essentially the son in the story and his father had raised him to be career driven. The father would ask her to get him to visit once in a while because they had stopped communicating.
This song still brings tears to my eyes.
I’d love this a million times if I could.
One of the truly great storytellers. Most of his songs were so long they didn't get played on the radio. He died too young but left a great legacy. His son (who was only 10 when Harry died) said people come up to him all the time and tell them how this song changed their lives. Rest in peace Harry. We miss you.
I remember when he died...in an automobile accident if I remember correctly....soooo many years ago. As with everything time keeps marching on and before you know it decades have flown by.
I'm over half a century old. This song is forever a classic. I love musical exploration and have found many such culturally/socially relevant songs in rock & roll, blues, jazz, pop, hip-hop... everything. That is what makes a tune a classic...when it testifies to the struggle of the people.
At least that is what makes a classic in my geezerly, life-observing opinion.
On the day my Dad died he said he was sorry for not doing much with me and my brother. I looked at him and said it's ok I Love you anyway. That was back in 1992 .
If you listen to more Harry Chapin, "Taxi" is a must!
I had the pleasure of meeting Harry Chapin. Humble and kind. Food pantries owe a lot to this special guy.
Harry Chapin’s “The Shortest Story” never fails to make me cry. If you haven’t heard the song, it’s about a starving newborn baby.
Probably the saddest song ever written, with the possible exception of Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven”.
@@anyamanning9427 "Tears in Heaven" is an excellent and sad Clapton song for his dead son, but the starvation of children around the globe like in "The Shortest Story" continues on, sadly. I think this is why the Harry Chapin Food Bank is in almost every town and city in America which is still a legacy and a blessing from Mr. Chapin after almost 50 years. He was a great storyteller/songwriter. "Taxi" was his biggest hit.
The song Cats in the Cradle and the song The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald always makes me shed some tears. Power of music.
This song definitely has some of the autobiographical in it. Harry Chapin's dad was a musician who was rarely around, and he started to worry that he was repeating the cycle.
I didn't talk to my dad for the last 10 yrs of his life. I regret it every day. You should check out The Living Years by Mike and the Mechanics.
Same, and agree
Don't be hard on yourself. Things come to pass for a reason. Allow yourself to forgive yourself - and maybe forgive your father too. After all, he was the parent. Your parent. You're his child - too easily forgotten when we "grow up". All the best.
@@Greenockianx Thank you
@@Greenockianx That's the best advice one human can give another. Forgive yourself. I've had to forgive myself for so many things in my life. Especially where my father was concerned. I wasn't speaking to him for a couple of years until he came to me to tell me he was dying of liver cancer. He asked me not to cry. I didn't. He went on to tell me that he would not be battling for his last days to be poisoned which is something I wouldn't have asked of him as I would have made the same choice. I told him some years earlier when he was trying to make amends for his past deeds that NOBODY HAD EVER TAUGHT HIM TO BE A MAN. I saw a light bulb go off in his head. It was the truth. I believe he forgave himself at that moment. He was finally able to be my dad. I miss him so much.
@Kimberly Scheper~I hope you will forgive yourself. Even if you're not sure how to do it, just say out loud; "I forgive myself" I guarantee you'll feel better before you realize it. Peace.
Ugly Kid Joe did a decent cover of this, but you'll never have remorse going to the source. I'm blessed to have made amends with my Dad before the end.
I think they asked his family first & ran their recording by them before releasing it. The impression i got it is if it wasn't cool with them they wer'nt gona release it.
I liked their version more tbh
didn't get along with my Dad from 15 to my late 30's. now, I'm 53, and we can actually get along. I'm glad you mended fences.
Never have remorse
Going to the source...
Lyricist much, Kris? 😉
I always have a difficult time liking covers. I want to. I thought Ugly Kid Joe's cover was listen-worthy. I was also surprised by Uncle Kracker's cover of "Drift Away."
49 years old and I still can't get through this song without tears. It hits really close to home for me, and could just as well be telling the story of me and my dad. 😢
Love the appreciation you show for the music in your facial expressions. How you FEEL the music and let it flow through you without missing the message. You didn't dissect it the way I have seen others do, didn't mention vocals or orchestral arrangement, just the purity of the message that Chapin was really trying to convey. Thanks for your reaction to this timeless classic with a moral story.
"Taxi" or "A better place to be" Harry Chapin Greatest Stories Live is my all time favorite album. A special song writer.
He was a really great man. He gave most of his money away to help people and said he didn't need much for himself.
“Taxi” is a must.
One of my favorite Harry Chapin songs is “Sniper”. It’s an extremely intense song but his portrayal of the Sniper is incredible and emotional.
@@anyamanning9427 thanks. Not familiar with that one. I will check it out later.
It's such a simple song, with the most powerful message. I've been crying to this song for 40 years.
This song makes me cry! Just like you said" TIME DOESNT WAIT LIFE FLIES BY" LOVING YOUR VIDEOS!!
Kids need their parents! Both of them. There is never an excuse not to give all of your to your child. I have failed in most aspects of my life, but the one thing i am proud of is the love for my daughter. She knows how much I love her. We have been close since the day she was born. And she has given me so much more than I could give her. I have heard "I love you, daddy" countless times...and it never gets old
There are some great Chapin songs, all of them are stories. Taxi, Mr. Tanner and A Better Place To Be are all worth a listen.
Another vote for “Better place to be”
Also “Mail order Annie”
"A Better Place to Be" and "Mr. Tanner" are for advanced Chapin-heads. "Cats" and "Bananas" is for beginners with "Taxi" and "WOLD" for the intermediates.
This is a serious tear jerker for any who loves their kids
Few understand the sacrifices that real fathers sometimes have to make.
Like Jamel said in the video there has to be a balance.
I think this song is more about working too hard to advance your career and give your family better material goods when what they really need is you.
Jamel, I appreciate so much the fact that you quiet yourself before you listen to all these tunes so you can truly appreciate the history, musicality, and lyric craftsmanship of the songs of the 60s and 70s. I dig your reaction channel. God Bless You for sharing.
mothers naturally get this connection to their child from breastfeeding, but fathers kinda have to "work for it" by playing with their children, we also criminally undervalue how important fathers are to their children and also how important children are to men
I suppose you'll have to do Taxi, W.O.L.D and Thirty Thousand Pounds of Bananas next. Enjoy the new journey, bro. Peace and love.
Was going to suggest Taxi
He's covered taxi iirc.
@@cudwieser3952 he's done Big Yellow Taxi by Joni Mitchell. I couldn't find him reacting to Taxi by Harry Chapin
@@sandybarnes887 I thought he had. There are other reactions to so I may have crossed wires. My bad :)
These are all great songs.. Good messages
Met Harry in the 70’s such a sweet man.
I cry every time I hear this song…. This one and Lonely Boy 😥
This is a good one. Mike and the Mechanics “In the Living Years” has a great message also.
Agreed. Glad I'm not the only one that remembers that song.
Played it at my dads funeral, it was his favourite. Breaks my heart still when I hear it
My buddy and I crashed a party at his house in 1981. Didn't meet him but I met his lovely wife. She fed us giant heroes and sent us on our way.
Did you know the song in the vid was actually based on an old folk song or rhyme she used to sing to their son. The chorus and title were what she sang and inspired Harry to do the rest.
@@cudwieser3952 No. Did not know that. But he was such a great fixture on the North Shore of Long Island until his passing. I still remember his beautiful yard and mingling amongst his friends who all seemed like special people. But for some reason, all these years later, I mainly recall her wonderful (momish) smile as she walked us over to the giant buffet table to eat. We weren't poor kids at all. We left a boring party down the block, we were kinda drunk, and somehow we ended in there backyard lol. We just followed the music.
@@claviclenotch1876 His greatest muse and the reason he had a life at all. Kinda shows where greatness lies, not in the eyes of others, but in the hearts of those who care.
One of my favorite all time songs and artists. I'm 44 and first discovered Harry Chapin when I listened to my parents cassette tape of Harry Chapin Greatest Hits Live so much I wore the words off of it. Later in life I got his 3 disc set that had almost his entire library on it and I truly think he was one of the most gifted song writers ever that was taken way too soon.
Jamel,
You are so amazing on your reactions, right away you got the lyrics, your reactions are so beautiful & sincere & honest .
The world lost him so young ,
Just like John Denver , Jim Croce & Otis Redding , Buddy Holly & Stevie Ray Vaughan & so many other great artists. I cry when I hear this song . RIP Harry ❤️🙏😢What a loss .
After this you now have to do Father and Son by Cat Stevens.
Yesssssss!!!!
Absolutely 👍
I also highly recommend any song by Mr. Cat Stevens.
YESSSS!! Cat Stevens!
You could react to both the older version and some of his recent performances.
Always cry listening to this song😭
Me, too. I used to listen to this song back in my taxi-driving days, in Hawaii, when the song came out. And his song, taxi.
Right there with you
@@kentclark6420 love Taxi too! Lived on Oahu in Mililani and worked at Wahiawa Gen Hosp.
His best hit....beautifully constructed...😊
Pronounced Chay-pin. We lost Harry almost 40 years ago a few miles west from where I sit. A unique performer. Great song, isn't it?
Beautiful. Taxi Driver live. You'll love the play on words.
It's CHAY-pin but yeah thanks for the reaction J! Suggested by his wife, deep song about paying attention to what's important in life.
Yeah, I was going to comment the same thing about the pronunciation, but I figured someone already did.👍🏻
I am glad you listened to this song!! I loved this song from a female's point of view. My dad worked hard on the railroad. And I always wanted to be just like him, strong minded and strong at my job. He showed me family values. I made sure I took care of my parents. Just to show them how much I loved them. Since they took care of me😇😇😇😇😇😇
Rest in peace, Harry. Unbelievably beautifully hunting , sweet ,just amazing . Still touching after so many years.
Great song, but my favorite Harry Chapin song is "Taxi."
This song basically summarises mine and my dad's relationship. We haven't talked since 2011. The moral of the story, is basically be there for your child. Nourish them teach them. Set them up for life, because life is hard. And unfortunately I had to learn the life lessons by myself. All the female influences in my life were/are fantastic, but you need somebody who you can relate to at the most basic level. And for us boys, we have our dads. I barely had mine. Take heed, gentlemen. Do the right thing.
Bless you Callum!
Callum my dad died before I could tell him I forgave him and myself for what came between us. And that I loved him. He asked continuously until life support was removed. Where is my boy? I just found out 19 yrs later and 2 days before seeing this post that he didn't know why I apparently hated him. Which I didn't.
Callum take/make the time to reconcile. It will be one of the most important things in life you will regret if you don't.
Came here to say what Gene said. As I get older, I find out what both my parents lived through as kids. Forgiveness came easy once I knew WHY they were like they were. I promise your dad loves you.
I can’t ever not cry when hearing this song. Always make time for your kids and your dad. You will regret it. Love the song nice reaction.
Mr. Jamel, thank you for 1) your knowledge of music, 2) your entertainment (you make me laugh and cry at the same time), and 3) the great messages you give us all. We all need to listen Sir!
This is one of the great "story songs" that while using modern (for the time) instruments and effects, always reminds me of old folk songs where the song tells a whole story. Very good review and loved your insights on the song.
The folkiness partly comes from the songs origins. The chorus was part of an old folk song Harry's wife would sing to their son, while harry was away at gigs. Harry heard his wife singing one day and took it from there. Add to that the story is very reflective of Harry's life, something he admitted scared him. Harry was forever on the road trying to get enough gigs to pay the bills. Every time he'd see his son he was that much older. Tragically Harry would not live the story in the song. On his way to a gig in 1981 he had a massive heart attack while driving on the freeway causing a crash. He was revived at the scene, but would be doa at the hospital. He was 38 years old, his son only 10.
I'm 55 yrs old and have been listening and loving this song for about 40 yrs now try Taxi Driver next
This is my child hood. Croce, Taylor, Lightfoot, etc etc etc they wrote from the heart and it makes me cry. This song was a MAJOR influence with spending time with my son. MAJOR