I'm a bit biased, because I've loved this song since my 6 year old ears first heard it. "I Go Crazy" by Paul Davis. I believe lyrics aren't the only thing that make a song sad. The music has to fit that mood as well. I think this is one of those songs. Also, the keyboard ditty after the chorus is one of the most memorable music sounds from my childhood.
I learned what NOT to do in this life from my father. He died at 44 years of age from a drug overdose, I was 24. I now am happily married with a fantastic 10 year old boy. No matter how tired I am after a hard day of Horseshoeing (I’m a professional Farrier) I ALWAYS have time for my wife and son… It feels good to break the cycle and Cats in the Cradle is always a great reminder to keep on keeping on 🙏
"Time in a Bottle" by Jim Croce tears me up, but, like "Cat's in the Cradle," it drives home how precious and fleeting the time is that we share with our loved ones. In a similar way "Everything I Own" by David Gates is another sad one about a father and son relationship.
The saddest song of the 70's for me had to be The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, I grew up in Michigan and in the 70's the weather and the winter's gave one a profound respect for what nature could do to those who didn't respect its power. I was a youngster when the Fitzgerald went down but I remember it clearly and the huge impact it had on the people of the state, and like it said in the song The church bell chimed till it rang 29 times for each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald . If you ever experienced a storm that blew inland from across the Great Lakes and felt its power grip you or ever been out on the lakes in the rough it was harrowing but to put them both together it was never put into words better than what Gordon Lightfoot did. It Captured the essence of Fear and courage that it took to do such a job on the Great Lakes and the truth of the horror of Being in the Grip of a Hurricane coupled with a winter Ice storm. "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hour's?.
Gordon Lightfoot is a treasure to all who know SONG. It certainly is a sad song...but it is also truthful about ,as you say, the courage of the men...the risks they take. Gordon allowed Us to understand that better. Great songs can bring Us to places we never imagined.
Agreed. I remember the snow and wind here in Northern Minnesota as the news broke in on Monday Night Football requesting the crews of the Coast Guard cutter in Duluth to report to the ship for an emergency deployment to the Fitzgeralds last know location to look for survivors. Haunting.
@@michaelgeisdorf6641 those poor guys were screwed like housecats. Same as the 1500 people in the Titanic. You ever need a reason to be thankful for your life, just walk out in an ice storm in your jammies. Then think about hugging a cold steel railing on a boat that just became a submarine in such a cold dark wet tomb. I read about one of those men on the Edmund Fitzgerald who locked his door on his Dodge Challenger in the parking lot near the dock where he boarded the ill-fated ship. An acquaintance of mine ended up buying that Challenger. It has always been a heavy reminder of how quickly things can change.
When I was a freshman in college on Long Island, Harry Chapin did a benefit concert on my campus. When he sang "Cat's in the Cradle," for the first chorus he had the entire audience sing along. For the second and third choruses, he had the guys only and then the gals only When he got to the all-female chorus, something clicked in my voice and it was blasting perfectly. After that song, Harry asked for volunteers to help him sing a couple of songs. I rose my hand, along with several of my friends. He looked at me and said, "You, with the good voice, come on up!" Nobody had EVER told me I had a good voice until he did. For that, I always hold a special place in my heart for him. A few years later, I was at a different school in New York City. This time he was doing a benefit with his brother, Tom. I (of course) went, taking along a friend who was always going out of his way to make sure the crowd in which we hung (Computer Science majors) didn't "grow up to be nerds." We both had a good time. Two months later, Harry was gone. I remember hearing that they couldn't tell whether he'd run off the road because he had a heart attack (supposedly he'd been into cocaine) or had a heart attack because the trucker ran him off the road. Either way, he was still dead. I rarely cry for an entertainer, but in this case I was choking back tears because my at-the-time husband didn't understand the emotional connection I had with Chapin.
This song is the reason I grew up knowing my dad. He was a cardiologist very busy keeping a couple of thousand people alive, most of them veterans. He heard it on the radio, and it moved him to make time for us in his very long days. I always wanted to thank Chapin for it.
@@LisaHouserman Actually, my parents were kinda superheros, both genius scientists who were senior advisors to the National Security Council. But yes, he was a very good guy, whom I miss very much despite my age..
@@ghostintheshadowofthecity5702 you'll always miss your parents, even in your final days. I miss my dad. My dad was a good father even with all the adversity he went through as a single parent with a retard for a son.
I learned in my early teens that my dad was worried he was like this. He was a workaholic as well and I know I picked up some (a lot) of that habit. I never saw him as absent or failing as a dad, but I'm his son, how could I convince him he was a good dad? Over the years he came to understand even though up to his death he maintained I "grew up in spite of us".
Cats in the cradle and the logical song have defined and shaped my life. This song helped me understand a father's sacrifices for his family. My father made little time for me and 50 years later I'm still trying to not have any resentment. Pop's is currently losing battling alzheimer's and dementia. I cry every day watching him deteriorate. I will be at his side till he passes. I'll always be there for you Pop's! I love you with all my heart!
Well Dean, as a father myself, who probably made lots of mistakes, I would like to quote Paul Simon. I knew a father who had a son, He longed to tell him all the reasons for the things he done , Went a long way, Just to explain , Kissed his boy while he lay sleeping , Turned around and went back home again.
My father is a very organized person. He works to help support our family while still making ample time to hang out with us at home. I’m very proud of him. Sending love and hugs to your pop.
Uh-boy.....I really do understand what you're going through. I had to watch my mother slowly die from this evil disease. I'm sure that it's much harder on us, the children, than it is on your father and was on my mother. My heart goes out to you, Dean.
My Mom's biggest celebrity crush was Harry Chapin. Her favorite story was going to his concert 7/8 months pregnant with me. Harry stopped and laid his hands on her belly and congratulated my parents. She said he was the only songwriter that truly understood a "big girl's" struggle with "A Better Place to Be." I grew up listening to his songs, learning to love him too. I will never forget when I was 9 and my Dad broke the news to Mom that Harry had been killed in a car accident. She burst into tears and we didn't see her for the rest of the night. My father traveled for a living but never missed a game, concert, play, talent show, choir performance, etc. I like to think "Cat's in the Cradle" influenced these commitments to our family.
My dad, who I’ve always been close to, played this song for me in the car when I was pretty young (this was probably the mid-90’s). I remember my mom saying once that this song is his greatest fear. I’m a new dad to a 9-month-old, and also feel caught between the role of the father and the son. I work hard to provide for my family, but I also want to be there for my own son. Meanwhile, I’m making efforts to visit my parents each month.
Much respect to your dad. My dad was basically abandoned when his mother died along with 8 siblings. Like your dad, instead of mirroring the example he had seen, he became a kind, loving, and humble father. Here’s to our dads.
I saw Harry in Concert when I was 21, ten years before my son was born. That song hit me in the gut as a single young adult, and I took it as a warning if I was to have to have kids one day. I certainly was not a perfect dad, but I was present. Every man should hear that song once in his life, for the good of his life as a dad and as a son.
Ya know as a guy who lost his son in January and his father last month this song hits me on multiple levels. My son was 20 killed by a drunk driver and my dad was 78 so i had the opportunity to see them inter act with each other and yes I am just like my dad and my son was just like me. This song means the world to me in this stage of my life.
« Leader of the Band » by Dan Fogelberg is also a touching tribute to a father. In this case the dad was inspirational and encouraging. The song also acknowledges the passage of time and the importance of telling those closest to you that you love them.
I listened to DF's greatest hits the other morning. What a poet he was and a beautiful heart and spirit. There seem to be messages in most of their words.
My 3 boys were born in 89-95. This song was a key factor in being aware of my time spent with them and making sure this song message wasn’t my story. They all know the great songs of the 70’s. (American Pie was the family trip sing along in the car) Time is limited until they are on their own. You can’t get it back.
My husband was the father in the song, but he never got the meaning. My husband was home but not there emotionally. My oldest boy had a band called “Factory Damage.” My son wrote a song called “Mr. Selfish.” My husband still didn’t get it. My husband is 81 and doesn’t understand to this day why they don’t visit very long with him. Harry Chaplin was one of my favorites. “Taxi.” Had significance to me. My husband was a taxi cab driver and I met him in a taxi ride home from work in 1974. I missed seeing Harry in an Evansville concert. I remember when he died cried a lot those days following his death. Thank you for the memories. Norma Young Owensboro Ky.
To this day, at 64 years old, I cannot hear this song without crying, including now. My father reminds me of the main character of the song so much. I wish that I had been able to put much more distance between his character and the way he raised me than I was able to. Sadly, my son is gone now, killed by a drunk driving illegal alien. I thank God Himself that the last words I ever spoke to my son, the morning he left for work were, "Son I'm so proud of you, I love you."
I could have wept for your father as you told his story. I completely understand growing up with an alcoholic father. I will say, my father never had us go out and do anything so awful. He never left us when we were sick. I would just love to be able to hug your six year old dad !
This song is one of the reasons that I spent as much time as I could with my boys as they were growing up. Money is nice but temporary. Family brings love and purpose. Thank you, Harry, for sharing this with the world. Adam, thank you for your openness and sharing your passion which came from your dad. Bless you and your family.
Well, time is tops, yes, but money is underrated. Money, unlike time, allows one to do whatever he or she wants. Time is the more important of the two, but the two in tandem can give unparalleled life experiences.
I would have to agree. I was third of three boys and I spent little time with my dad. He was a WW2 vet and had issues. He died when I was 20. I made sure I would be there for my kids but still made some of the same errors pursuing a career in education with a heavy Saturday sport commitment. Gave up on the idea and ensured I spend a lot of their later teens being there for them. This song haunted me every time I heard it.
This song hit really hard with me in 2019 when my father had to take multiple trips out of town to go all over the US for work purposes. I had to stay with my mother and little sister, and it was kind of hard for her to take care of us all by herself. Luckily, when my dad did come home he spent all the time in the world that he could with us and we learned to appreciate how hard he works to support us through life. He's awesome.
"Little boy blue and the man in the moon..." I wonder if Chapin intended those two characters to refer to his son and him? The "little boy blue" is the sad little boy looking at his father, the bright but distant and cold father in the sky. Always such a tear jerker for me, and too close to home.
So, when I was divorced with 2 children 8 and 10, I would hear the cats and the cradle song and feel horrible about not being with my son and step daughter as much . I started a tradition of every time I heard the song, I would immediately call my son and say to him , cats in the cradle is on, I love you son. My son would also do the same, and now as a 30 year old and very successful young man, we still do this to this day. My new wife who had arrived quickly into our lives and a woman who is instrumental in all of our success, was smitten with the idea, so she started to do the same check in anytime each of them hear Talks to Angels by the Black Crowes.. Love conquered all for us!
Damn, this is a real tear-jerker. I hope everyone watches to the end. My dad was an alcoholic too. He quit drinking after I left home and then he got religion. But he was still never able to open up to me and show any kind of vulnerability or intimacy. He was stoic. Private. Deeply avoidant. Never talked about anything important. Lots of talking about the weather. He is still alive and eventually stopped speaking to me altogether due to religious differences with me. I'm an atheist and he's a Jehovah's Witness. He's so feeble now he really could go any day. He turns 87 this year. Thanks for sharing with us Professor. Keep on rockin.
I am a native Long Islander. So was Harry. He was ours. Our Homeboy who made good. Sure there was Billy Joel..but he hadnt yet gotten as far in 1972, 1973. But he was visible,too. Harry was personable. He had an openness to him...a charm...something so special. In my opinion, He wrote with a cutting clarity..as good as Hemingway. But he wasn't self destructive..as Hemingway, was. He had enormous positive energy. To this day his Food Bank donates food to the needy and has for years. It retains his, name, as well. Harry died in a car crash years ago....a few miles from where i was that day. It was like the death of JFK. If you were a Long Islander..you always remember where you were when you heard the news. Billy Joel went onto to be mega famous. Had many hits. Married a Model. Had some trouble with substances, and money. Harry was the guy many OUTSIDE of Long Island forgot. We still carry him, in our hearts. He was the side of Long island many don't know about. Such a talent. Missed, even to this day.
I served in the Navy (USS Truett) and we docked near New Orleans once in the early 90's. Of course we all missed our families, after all it WAS the Navy. One night on the town, one of my shipmates, at a Bourbon Street kareoke bar, bravely got on stage and belted out the most passionate version of Cats In The Cradle I've ever heard. Thank you Shane (can't remember his last name) I've never forgot about your performance that night.
This song and my own childhood loneliness are the reasons why my kids and I have aways been so close. Their mom bailed when our youngest was almost 3 and, quite literally, this song's message was my foundation and my energy to help fill the void. They grew up into amazing people and not just because they're mine, but because this message rang constantly in me. Beyond powerful stuff.
When you ask if there has ever been a sadder ending to a song (I’ve cried many times hearing this) but there is one that I cry just as hard. Bobby Goldsboro- Honey. It’s so sad.
Harry Chapin Greatest Stories Live is the soundtrack to my childhood. His live performances, with his brothers and bandmates, is joyful, moving, emotional, and easy to sing along with. 30,000 Pounds Of Bananas, Mr Tanner, Dreams Go By, Cats In The Cradle, A Better Place To Be, Taxi, Circle, etc. Thanks Mom, your love for this man and his music lives on in me.
Songs like cats in the cradle or Jim Croche's time in a bottle will always be powerful, because you can't listen to them without having very personal pieces of youself pulled out and held before your own eyes... some songs just relate to life and time with it's relentless passing so strongly, that you can't let them go, but at the same time, helps to resolve them as "life"... another awesome video professor, thanks for all these wonderful videos, kinda like the Paul Harvey of rock and roll, and now we know the rest of the story!
Dang Adam, you really know how to bring tears to my eyes. I lost my dad at the end of 2019. It was a freak type of accident. Dad was healthy overall at 70 years old. He was one of my best friends. I miss him dearly. A lot of our bond revolved around a shared love of music, cars, electronics, computers, and movies. I am over 50. Yet, I really miss him still.
Harry changed for his family, but also his whole life in general. It's ironic he died on his way to a benefit concert. He performed many of them. He became a true humanitarian and an advocate his hunger project. His foundation is still in operation.
I was a senior in high school when this song came out and I always loved it. And then, when my son was 4 years old, and I was working full-time and would hear this song on my way to work on the “classic rock station”, it would make me tear up, because I would feel guilty, as a mom, that I couldn’t be home raising him. My husband and I both loved this song, and it would remind us that we could work hard to make sure we spent time with our kids. Now, we are retired and our kids are good about trying to come see us when they can. But, our son and his wife and kids live 11 hours (by car) away from us so there are times when it’s a reminder that their lives are kind of like ours at that age.
I always loved Harry's music, I remember how sad I was when I heard he had passed away in a auto accident, it made "Cats in a cradle " even sadder for me to hear. My cousin quoted lyrics from it at my Uncles funeral, such a great and true song. I always liked "Taxi " also. I wish Harry could've been with us longer, I'm sure he would've given us alot more good music! Thanks for keeping the music alive Professor!
I find the death of Jim Croce as much sadder. He was on the cusp of being a HUGE star and seemed to be a nice guy. Harry let the stardom goes to his head, and acted like an ass. Talent doesn't make you a good person. Jim was always a much more down to Earth guy. Probably not a perfect guy, but a nice talented guy. Maybe Jim would of gotten big headed too, but he didn't live.
Taxi, Greyhound and Dogtown from Harry’s first album are absolute classics, as is the stunning “Flowers Are Red” from 1978. But the shining light for me has always been “She Is Always Seventeen”.
I remember listening to this song on a "70's Gold" double album I bought back in the early 80's at age 10 (with the help from my parents. Mail orders only). One day when I was listening to it, my mom said, "There's one song that you'll never be able to relate to." Both of my parents were always there for me, helping with my homework, taking us to theme parks, playing baseball, chess, video games, whatever. They always had time for my sisters & me. The theme of this song is very sad, and I'm thankful I could never relate to it.
Sounds like we had similar parents. I learned from my dad how to be a good dad. My son has told me how much he is grateful for my attention. He has his own son now and hopefully he will be a good dad, too.
I can’t relate to it either. My parents have always been there for me every step of the way. They make sure I am loved, feel safe and comfortable through life.
I was about 14 when this song was popular. My parents were not like the dad in the song either. But I still could relate to it based on things some of my friends and school mates were going through with parents going through divorces etc. I mentioned something about liking the song to my mom and she seemed to be a bit irritated with me. I think she thought I was relating to it on a personal level and couldn't understand why. It was more that I understood the message of the song and felt empathy for people who experienced similar issues.
I don't think you need to "relate" to it, to understand it, and sympathize with those who it unfortunately DO relate to it. It's a very sad song, set to great music. But it's a song that for many, it's all too real.
To me one of the saddest songs is another Chapin song about loneliness called A Better Place to Be. It has a kind of happy ending but he so accurately portrays the crushing loneliness that comes to most people at times so accurately that you can feel it in your bones. Chapin was one of the greatest songwriters that we have ever had.
If people really love "Taxi" and "Cats in the Cradle", they need to treat themselves to a listen of the whole catalog or one of his recorded concerts. He of course, had his somber and deep meaningful songs, but the overall effect of his music in whole is so joyous.
I'm very fortunate to have a father who used every opportunity to spend time with his family. Even so, this is definitely a tough listen because there are people who weren't so lucky. RIP Harry Chapin
As a child of the 70's, I really appreciate the Professor covering this song. I've loved this channel for a while now, but this one in particular is absolutely spectacular, with back stories that were unknown to me.
Some of us unfortunately grew up without any Dad in the house. I have had several friends who have Dad's, and I tell them just how lucky they are. I don't know wich is worse, not having a Dad, or having a absent or disfunctional Dad. I remember hearing this song being played on the radio back in the 80's. It's great to hear the powerful story behind the song. Thanks.
That's true; if you have love, you have everything -- but not everyone knows that. I was raised by parents that shouldn't have had kids, and of course (he says ashamedly) I made many, but not all, of the same mistakes -- we all learn what we live. I am now the only survivor of my birth family, I outlived my parents and little brother. And I now have a family for whom I thank God daily, but they're all grown now and I made many of those mistakes when they were in their critical years. I think I've now atoned for all that awful behavior, but I wasn't physically or emotionally abusive ... that's all I can say in my own defense, and all I could give my wife & kids was my own sobriety a long time ago. My kids are all still alive, and THEY have kids who love their poppop; and as ironic as it sounds for me to say so, it's what life's all about. If you have love, you have everything. Don't have a lot of money any more, but that's not important. Love is. _Did I break the cycle?_ I'll never really know for certain, I'm still not perfect, but I sure as hell tried. That doubt sucks; but it could be _a lot_ worse. With all I just said, listen closely: *don't waste time. You'll never get it back.*
What a great episode! That story your Dad told you about his Dad choked me up. The way you weaved to story of the song and your Dad’s story about his Dad was masterful. Thanks again.
Adam, PoR, you always have the right segment to have me as one of your honorary producers! It's when the segment usually sounds like my life story or a story in my life. Your family story brought me to tears. My Dad was an alcoholic but he was there for us. My Mom left when I was 8 because of his drinking & lying to her. Funny thing, she left with his best friend. Talk about lies. My Dad didn't have a lot of time for us as he was a military man trying to work enough to support his 3 children (& drink too). But he was *ALWAYS* my hero! He quit drinking, cleaned himself up & was there for us as much as he could be.
I became an interstate truckie, just like my father, who hardly ever spent any time with me. But growing up with this song, I vowed I would NOT be just like him. I became a father at 42. Althoughstill an interstate truckie, I've never missed any of my kids births, birthdays, & when I do get home, my day off is devoted to them. & I video call them every night to let them know how much I love them & miss them. My job does not allow me to tuck them in every night. But because of this song, I make every opportunity to spend as much time as possible with them. It still brings me to tears every time I hear it
This song was one of my dad's favorites and we lost him a couple years ago. It hits to close to home I will have to watch this later. Miss you everyday dad
SAD TRUE STORY: My best friend from childhood. (I have to keep his name private as he is well known) He grew up wanting to be be a "G.I Joe guy", He went into the military and went right up the ranks. Now in his 50's he contacts me to tell me he is getting the highest honor in the military. I flew across country to be there . I recorded his acceptance speech. His speech was supposed to be upbeat and exciting. Instead he focused on the song Cats in the cradle. He mentioned every line in the song. Imagine leading tens of thousand of troops into hardcore battle for 2 decades. Imagine all the American body bags, that were under his command. Imagine all the men under his command that came home dismembered. Then one month later he took his own life from the guilt of not being with his family due to military life. He never drank or did any drugs, a perfect human. I am not sure if he committed suicide to be honest. Some people that high up and have massive control, "strange things happen to them" and the press sucks.
I bet every man that has every come to that realization that he's missed out on life spending time making a living has wanted to put a gun to his own head. I'm so sorry for you and the loss of what was a certified great man in your friend and for the loss to his family that would've been happy to have him in any capacity. I site this song as the thing that puts that extra energy and motivation in me that I thought was completely gone at the end of a long work week and I had to make the 2 hour trek to see my own son and daughter or give up on something I wanted to do, or live on noodles and coffee so I could make that child support payment. I'd walk an hour to get to work because I couldn't fix the old car that eventually got repo'ed. I'd sing me a line or two and I'd show up with a smile on my face. I made it to their graduations and made sure to do what I could to make a holiday or birthday as special as I could. The kids are in their 20s now and they will call almost every weekend to tell me how much the miss me and love me. It's the best I could do but I was damned to let my children say something like...Ya, I can relate to this song.
As one who suffers from depression, the father of 5 sons, finds it very difficult to talk about personal things, and to even get out of the house, this song haunts me. I was a single father raising my boys for many years and I tried to always do right by them. We did plenty of activities together and I told them I loved them all the time and they always said it back. The problem is once they left to be on their own, as they all have, I find it very difficult to talk with them. This video has me crying. I desperately miss them, three of them live on the other side of the world, and it's hard to make it out the front door, much less travel 14,000 miles to visit them, but for some weird reason, this song always gives me hope.
Urroner,,, technology is capable of being a great blessing. You should seek out help for your depression and you should try to find ways to communicate your love for your boys. I am the only child of my parents before my Mom walked out on my Dad for being on third shift trying to earn a living for his family and my Mom walked out because she wanted more. She took me with her and like to killed my Dad in doing so. I've been drug all over the world with her and a violent string of men she laid down with in subsequent years. I have scars and broken bones to show for all of it, but I came back home to be near to my Dad and extended family. Writing about all this has been sometimes tumultuous for me, but largely helps get it out on the page. Don't know if you have tried to write for your own sanity or to reach out to your boys, but it might help Sir. Godspeed in your travails.
Get help! Talk to them! Life is very short, do not wait until you do not have the opportunity to talk with them. I am a veteran and am 73 years old. I came out of the military and did not know how messed up I was. Anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts ect. My life was sort of like Harry's but I was not a rock star. Like Harry though, I ignored my home life with my wife. Doing that, just like Harry, it almost cost me my marriage and would have ended not only my marriage, but also my life. Unbelievably she hung in somehow. I got help, and with her help, we are still together after 50 years and somehow I am still here. I am only here because of her help and outside help too. Just like Harry, I was able to hang on to what mattered most.
@@bobbys4327 My first wife left me. Little did we know we were both going through depression.. She's from Australia, so when she left, she took our three boys with her there. That made everything a lot worse. Coming home to an empty house really took a toll on me. I got the boys back a little over a year later. She couldn't deal with three active boys. Sadly, she never really did anything to help with her depression. I went to counseling very often starting in 1992 through the early 2000s. I got married again, but it was a bad decision. Gain 2 more boys and another ex. De nidec to wait u till I had my head on right before getting into any type of ro antic relationship. My boys realize it's not in it right now to call them, so they call me. Counseling, antidepressants, and having kids to raise saved me. I'm pushing 70 and life not too bad except for the stress. I'll retire when I turn 70. I love my job and the people I work with, so I'm in no rush. I'm happy you found a keepr. That's awesome and thanks for the concern.
Wow, this song has made me very emotional every time I hear it. I just think of the extremely tragic way he died in a traffic collision and how he could have lived longer to inspire more and more generations of people. This is just such a truly haunting song. Thanks Professor.
I was very close to my dad growing up. Even though I was a girl, he'd take me to the junk yard to look for car parts, have me help him with his woodworking projects, take me fishing and hunting, and take me on motorcycle rides, until I was old enough to ride on my own. And my dad and I shared music. In the early 70s the economy was tanking, and we had to move several times. By late 1973, my dad started a job that would required him to be on the road for weeks at a time, especially during the summer months when my little brother and I would be out of school. Cats in the Cradle came out; I loved it. I loved the music and the story...I liked the twist at the end. I gave my dad the 45 for Christmas. He later came to me, and asked if that was how I felt. The look in his eyes... It was like the wind had been knocked out of me. I hadn't thought about it applying to us. I understood why he had to be on the road, and I knew that he would time his trips so he could be home at least every other weekend so he could spend it with my brother and me. Years later, my mom told me how guilty my father felt having to be away from home those years. I always felt guilty for giving him that song.
Harry has been #1 in my book forever, got all of his albums, seen his movie, the Cotton Patch Gospel musical (twice) he wrote the music for and never tire of his music. I am so glad his music is very personal for you in this episode, whereas other interviews I have watched is more of "your job." He has so many songs that elicit emotions - Sniper (If you're not shaken by this song, there is something wrong with you), Bummer, Corey's Coming, Flowers Are Red (the anthem we raised our children by), Tangled Up Puppet (The female version of Cat's In The Cradle), The Mayor of Candor Lied, Mr. Tanner (A Dry Cleaner from Ohio - the real story is crazy. Years after Harry passed, the real Dry Cleaner, Mr. Turbidy, started getting calls asking if he was Mr. Tanner? He hung up on these strange calls, then listened to the song one day for the first time. And recognized he is Mr. Tanner. He has sung the song on stage with Harry's brothers. Amazing.
Kris Kristofferson wrote and sang a pretty great version himself, but Janis feels every heartache in the song that Kris penned. I have a girl in my past that I might make that "tomorrows for yesterday" trade for. If we are lucky, we all do.
When my husband passed away I learned what that line really meant. I would gladly trade the rest of my life to have just another ordinary day with the most wonderful man ever.
Harry Chapin was one of the most daring, funny and brutally honest singer songwriters of the 1970s from the brilliant but disturbing character study of sniper to the romantic and endearing I want to right a love song Harry left an amazing legacy of music that decades later is still so powerful
I often think his catalog is often To powerful for this day and age. So many people "crushed" by emotions that they cant get to the end of a paragraph of lyrics..they MUST turn it off. It just reminds of being human, and THAT they want no part of, I guess.
@@georgebarry8640 Harry's lyrics and music have a very strong and powerful impact and what set Harry apart was his choices of subject matter and his unflinching and unnerving delivery of his songs
Oh those sad songs. Can I add one: in 1982 I lost my father to Cancer, He was only 52 and the love of so many of our friends lives. Song that epitomized my father was as Dan Fogelberg said "the most important song I ever wrote was Leader of the Band". And to this day I cannot listen to it without crying. It was on the radio when I got the call from my Stepmom announcing his passing the night prior.
I saw Harry Chapin once in concert, and he was the first one to bring my attention to world hunger. My own father died when I was 11, and I can clearly picture the smile on his face when I played catch with him the year that he passed. "Cat's in the Cradle" is the one song that always brings a tear to my eye when I hear it. Watching this video brought a tear to my eye.
In the Ghetto remains one of the saddest of the era for me. But this one, Harry's Cat's in the Cradle proved to be the most prophetic. My folks were getting divorced when this song came out, I was 12, and I still love it today!
You just nailed it. The best authentic version of you. Reflecting within me, as a father, as a son, my eyes flowed tears from the truth known. Thank you Adam for being so genuine, and thanks to Harry and his wife for that song..!
I always liked how the perspective of the song changed as it progressed. Highlighting how the son can become the father in more ways than the obvious. It's right up there with The Living Years for father/son songs. Tragic but beautiful.
This song meant a lot to me.. my dad was always there until he wasn’t. And that was true until I was 11 my sister 9. He remarried and I lost him totally to my cruel demented step-mother. But I was already loved and cherished enough by him to carry on. l was solid, strong but gentle I knew myself in my own mind. In my marriage and in our little family I was totally accessible. They forever had me in all aspects of their lives until I wasn’t. (teenagers/young adults) They’re back now with a vengeance. And I love it. I’m blessed once again.
Always makes me tear up. Three chords, the truth, and a box of Kleenex. You really poured your heart into this one, Adam. I'm surprised you didn't break down, but that may have been left on the cutting room floor.
Harry was the greatest singer-song writer who ever lived. He was a great man, who tried to help everyone. His concerts were incredible. He and Big John Wallace teamed to make records that were never matched.
I read to my son every night till we’ll after he could read for himself. Even so, there were years that I didn’t spend enough time with him. The time we did spend together was so worth it, because now he still spends time with me.
Every college in the United States in the 70s had at least a concert by Harry Chapin. Many of them were free if you bought food in cans for the homeless or some type of charitable thing. His father actually taught Peter Kriss of kiss how to play drums
His father was a reknowned Drummer. He had a Video out in the 80s ..I saw it. I didnt think a human could play like that on the drums!!! Harrys entire family played music, and I was lucky enough to play a gig or two with one of them. Nice people.
I attended one of Harry Chapin's concerts while in college late '70s. Growing up, my dad was in the US Air Force and was in the Viet Nam theater for a year two different times. In spite of his own father's poor modeling, I fondly remember all the time my dad spent with me.
I worked multiple jobs and or side jobs most of my life. Didn't have a whole lotta time to spend time with my ex wife and kids. I was able to go to my daughter's talent show at school. She sang this song and made me cry. I was heart broken.
"Someday Never Comes" by CCR is a beautiful, but lesser-known song that is thematically similar to the Cat's in the Cradle. It's great and worth hearing
My Dad didn’t have time for me when I was a kid. I was his caregiver his last few years. In one of his final days in hospice he apologized for not being more attentive. What could I say besides “It’s ok.” Life goes on.
Like you, Adam, I was blessed with a father who loves me and my younger brother, and has always been involved in our lives. He's approaching 90 now, but he still lives the example I try to follow. But even with that, this song has always spoken to my heart. This song, along with my dad's example, are what guided me in my effort to be a loving and involved father for my two daughters. It's a deeply meaningful song and I can only imagine how many lives it has impacted and changed. This song is a priceless gift to us all.
Long, long time, sung by Linda Ronstadt! As a broken hearted teen I’d played this song endlessly, on my record player, and cried, sang alone, and cried more!!!
This song has a lot of meaning for me. My dad loved me, but had serious alcohol and skirt chasing issues that split my family. It’s a shame we spent so little time together.
People can change when they decide to so on their own, when they want to do it for their own good on their own terms. Things have to take drastic a turn before that happens. Often that is a health or safety scare or a lifestyle scare. What is really sad is that speaks to many of us raised by fathers of the era when men were only expected to provide financially to their families vs. being a real part of their life and upbringing. Us Gen X peeps really get this.
Love this song! It had an impact on my dad’s life as a young dad with 3 kids working long hours too. I think I grew to like it so much, because of how much I heard him play it.
Adam thank you so much for this story. It has been an awakening for my memory. I to grew up without a father and only saw him at his funeral at age twelve only because I was forced to go to it. I to have a daughter from whom I have had an on/off relationship. She is in her forties and I only woke up to my neglect late last year when she asked me to be at her wedding to give her away. She was so adamant that she bought me a plane ticket and went out of her way to make me comfortable in her home. This story has made me realise that the lost times will never be regained but only the now and the future can create the relationship that should have been.
Thank you for the story behind this song. This is another song my grade school music teacher played on his guitar. I still have the lyrics memorized from this experience. Also, my favorite Beatle is...All of them!😊
Probably one of the most memorable concerts I ever attended was his concert at the Greek Theater in 1980, very entertaining, still have a couple of his albums. It was a shock to hear of his death a year later. His music still lives in me. As a former radio dj in the late 60s many an artist were known to me, but Harry was special.
I remember the night my father died. I got the phone call from the hospital and I was 3 hours away. I was speeding down the interstate at 11:30 p.m. trying to get to the hospital to say goodbye to him. I remember I was two and a half hours away. Then suddenly I felt this pain in my heart. I knew at that moment that he had passed and I didn't make it. I looked at my watch and check the time. I slowed down. When I got to the hospital. The nurses told me that he was already on his way to the mortuary. I asked her what time did he pass. It was the exact time that I noted on my watch. When a son loses his father it's like suddenly being lost in the wilderness.
Beautiful sharing of the Professor’s personal life. He wouldn’t have the love, passion and deep understanding of the music that we all love if he wasn’t the amazing man that he is
I was a young 18yr old in college eating lunch and Harry walks in(FARMINGDALE COLLEGE) And he starts befrending people.He walked over to me and said hello.He was offering T shirts for his Charity begins at home.I purchased 1 for $5!!! And Harry signed it. He was a superstar but Seemed like just another guy.That was 1978. God Bless Harry.I played his albums for my kids growing up.A lot of Happy moments I made sure to spend w MY kids when I could.Unfortunately my wife divorced me when kids were young and I never DID get to spend enough time with them."CATS" Makes me Happy and Sad whenever I hear it.Miss you Harry.😪
A great deal of people have analyzed this timeless song over the decades Professor; you did a masterful job of translating life events turned into music and lyrics into therapy and a cautionary tale in a great, great song. My dad is gone now; he was a child of the depression, and later in his life, my military career was behind me, I was fortunate to have more time to spend with him after his stroke. He deteriorated gradually over a couple of years until he passed in September '20. Many don't have an opportunity to tell their dad how fortunate they were to learn from him and to tell him how his life lessons taught early in life helped in tough times. This song is a reminder of the work you have to do in any relationship...but most importantly, the example you set for your kids. Thanks Professor!
My son's (14) father (60) is the person who would never change. Over the years my son begged him to quit drinking. He gave up recently I always thought I would give him another chance to be a family. Cats in the cradle is the song that has stuck with me since the 80s when I was old enough to understand. Now I cry when I here it. Thanks Prof. For your videos.
That song is so deep, so melancholy, I never listen to it much on purpose. The redeemed Mr Chapin got 8 years with his family. Too bad it wasn’t a longer lifetime. I was still thinking of this video after I watched it yesterday because what a shock that he died so young after all. Imagine how razor closely he almost missed the chance to redeem himself. What a bitter and sweet story. Very haunting.
I think about what you said about your Dad and his father. Not so different from my Dads story. His father was gone when he was 9 mos old. My Dad is a good Dad. He was there for the 4 of us and my Mom. Thankfully he is still with us today. Thanks Professor👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🌹
This song has always meant so much to me because of my own relationship with my father. Thank you for opening up about your father struggles and how he changed his family tree. I have 3 teenage boys and work every day to be the best father to them. Once again your channel is so inspiring. Thank you.
Thank you for being so real. 🌹🌹🌹I was in high school, college, and then having babies at the time Harry Chapin was doing his music and for sure his work changed my life. My personal favorite was "Flowers Are Red" -- which totally influenced how I saw my kids and valued them for their differences. Heʻs such a phenomenal storyteller; I admire him for his stories. And thank you for yours. 🌹🌹🌹
FUN FACT!! If you watch Jerry Seinfeld Comedians in Cars Gettting Coffee, a famous actress (I forget which one) told a story about being a kid at the right place, right time, landing the singing part of the children's chorus on that song!
Am a 53 yr. old single Dad of three daughters(12,11,9) and been so for almost nine years now. I adore Chapin and it brings tears to my eyes to hear my girls sing his songs. They all have different favs my oldest luvs "Mr.Tanner", my middle luvs "Cats in the Cradle" and my youngest "Bananas". He was an amazing story teller !!!
As a 65 year old father whose 31 year old son who still lives with us, this song always reminds me I didn’t do everything right but it reminds me I can do better and I do.
There's a reason for it, look at the state of the world, not a time to go into the new frontier. Don't apologize and don't explain how your life looks...it's not anyone's business. Get right with God and you will be guided in the right direction. Find a bible story or myth/legend for big picture... I hope that makes sense. Go forward with no regrets and enjoy each day.
My dad was a teacher at a small community college but highly respected in his area of expertise. He spent long hours at times because he took his job and the student’s needs seriously. He was also extremely fearful of being a failure. This song scared the hell out of him. He always struggled with balance but I never felt he was ever truly absent. He’s been gone 15 years now and I miss him everyday and hope I’ve been as good a dad to my kids as he was for us. Love ya dad.
I love this song . It is very sad and personal. Many of us that grew up in the 70's can relate to this experience, even if though our version may differ. That is not to say that our fathers never loved us, they just had a hard time expressing it. My own father was driven to be a successful salesman and spent a lot of time away from home on business trips. Even when home he liked to go the bar at night and drink with friends. He was a good man though and never abandoned his family. I regret not getting to know him better before he passed away.
What are you trying to do to me? Got me all misty eyed in the middle of work! Now I gotta go home and spend quality time with my little girl. Honestly though fantastic job with this one!
I was in high school when this came out. I loved it. I was fortunate to have a Dad that was always *present *, not just physically but emotionally. The song always got me though. Still does. Tears are falling for your poor Dad . It must have been so sad for him. He obviously took notice of Harry's words though and was not like his Dad. Love your show. Love music. ❤🇭🇲
I saw Harry in concert twice, in 1976 and 1977. I sang with him and a group of people from the audience on the last 3 songs he sang in 1976 ( Taxi, Someone Keeps Calling My Name, and Circle) . He didn't have his band with him that year. To say it was unforgettable is an understatement. I still love his songs and wish more people today knew them.
Poll: What is your pick for the saddest song of the 1970s?
I'm a bit biased, because I've loved this song since my 6 year old ears first heard it. "I Go Crazy" by Paul Davis. I believe lyrics aren't the only thing that make a song sad. The music has to fit that mood as well. I think this is one of those songs. Also, the keyboard ditty after the chorus is one of the most memorable music sounds from my childhood.
"Cat Size" by Suzi Quatro.
All by Myself by Eric Carmen.
"Bohemian Rhapsody"?
Alone again...naturally.
I learned what NOT to do in this life from my father. He died at 44 years of age from a drug overdose, I was 24. I now am happily married with a fantastic 10 year old boy. No matter how tired I am after a hard day of Horseshoeing (I’m a professional Farrier) I ALWAYS have time for my wife and son… It feels good to break the cycle and Cats in the Cradle is always a great reminder to keep on keeping on 🙏
"Time in a Bottle" by Jim Croce tears me up, but, like "Cat's in the Cradle," it drives home how precious and fleeting the time is that we share with our loved ones. In a similar way "Everything I Own" by David Gates is another sad one about a father and son relationship.
You could add Barry Manilow’s “Ships” to that list, Clarence Carter’s “Patches”, and the Winston’s “Color Him Father” too.
I always have cats in the cradle and father and son as the ones that get me
The saddest song of the 70's for me had to be The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, I grew up in Michigan and in the 70's the weather and the winter's gave one a profound respect for what nature could do to those who didn't respect its power. I was a youngster when the Fitzgerald went down but I remember it clearly and the huge impact it had on the people of the state, and like it said in the song The church bell chimed till it rang 29 times for each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald . If you ever experienced a storm that blew inland from across the Great Lakes and felt its power grip you or ever been out on the lakes in the rough it was harrowing but to put them both together it was never put into words better than what Gordon Lightfoot did. It Captured the essence of Fear and courage that it took to do such a job on the Great Lakes and the truth of the horror of Being in the Grip of a Hurricane coupled with a winter Ice storm. "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the waves turn the minutes to hour's?.
Gordon Lightfoot is a treasure to all who know SONG. It certainly is a sad song...but it is also truthful about ,as you say, the courage of the men...the risks they take. Gordon allowed Us to understand that better. Great songs can bring Us to places we never imagined.
@@georgebarry8640 Sad though when Canada switched to the metric system and he had to change his name to Gordon Lightmeter! 🤪
Agreed. I remember the snow and wind here in Northern Minnesota as the news broke in on Monday Night Football requesting the crews of the Coast Guard cutter in Duluth to report to the ship for an emergency deployment to the Fitzgeralds last know location to look for survivors.
Haunting.
@@michaelgeisdorf6641 those poor guys were screwed like housecats. Same as the 1500 people in the Titanic. You ever need a reason to be thankful for your life, just walk out in an ice storm in your jammies. Then think about hugging a cold steel railing on a boat that just became a submarine in such a cold dark wet tomb.
I read about one of those men on the Edmund Fitzgerald who locked his door on his Dodge Challenger in the parking lot near the dock where he boarded the ill-fated ship. An acquaintance of mine ended up buying that Challenger. It has always been a heavy reminder of how quickly things can change.
You’ve obviously not paid serious attention to ABBA songs.
When I was a freshman in college on Long Island, Harry Chapin did a benefit concert on my campus. When he sang "Cat's in the Cradle," for the first chorus he had the entire audience sing along. For the second and third choruses, he had the guys only and then the gals only
When he got to the all-female chorus, something clicked in my voice and it was blasting perfectly. After that song, Harry asked for volunteers to help him sing a couple of songs. I rose my hand, along with several of my friends. He looked at me and said, "You, with the good voice, come on up!"
Nobody had EVER told me I had a good voice until he did.
For that, I always hold a special place in my heart for him.
A few years later, I was at a different school in New York City. This time he was doing a benefit with his brother, Tom. I (of course) went, taking along a friend who was always going out of his way to make sure the crowd in which we hung (Computer Science majors) didn't "grow up to be nerds." We both had a good time.
Two months later, Harry was gone. I remember hearing that they couldn't tell whether he'd run off the road because he had a heart attack (supposedly he'd been into cocaine) or had a heart attack because the trucker ran him off the road. Either way, he was still dead. I rarely cry for an entertainer, but in this case I was choking back tears because my at-the-time husband didn't understand the emotional connection I had with Chapin.
Harry was way too busy to mess with Cocaine. I doubt it seriously.
This song is the reason I grew up knowing my dad. He was a cardiologist very busy keeping a couple of thousand people alive, most of them veterans. He heard it on the radio, and it moved him to make time for us in his very long days. I always wanted to thank Chapin for it.
What a wonderful story! Your dad sounds like one of the good guys!
@@LisaHouserman Actually, my parents were kinda superheros, both genius scientists who were senior advisors to the National Security Council. But yes, he was a very good guy, whom I miss very much despite my age..
@@ghostintheshadowofthecity5702 you'll always miss your parents, even in your final days. I miss my dad. My dad was a good father even with all the adversity he went through as a single parent with a retard for a son.
Your online handle sounds like the title of some beautiful, haunting (pun not intended) album!
That's great.
My father was a workaholic, and this song devastated him. It’s one of the very few times I ever saw him tear up. It changed him. Thank you, Harry. ❤️
I learned in my early teens that my dad was worried he was like this. He was a workaholic as well and I know I picked up some (a lot) of that habit. I never saw him as absent or failing as a dad, but I'm his son, how could I convince him he was a good dad? Over the years he came to understand even though up to his death he maintained I "grew up in spite of us".
Cats in the cradle and the logical song have defined and shaped my life. This song helped me understand a father's sacrifices for his family. My father made little time for me and 50 years later I'm still trying to not have any resentment. Pop's is currently losing battling alzheimer's and dementia. I cry every day watching him deteriorate. I will be at his side till he passes. I'll always be there for you Pop's! I love you with all my heart!
Nice comment. I understand. In fact I even wrote a blog piece about The Logical Song.
Best of luck to your Dad.
I was with my father when he passed from Dementia.
It was hard, but I have no regrets.
Well Dean, as a father myself, who probably made lots of mistakes, I would like to quote Paul Simon.
I knew a father who had a son,
He longed to tell him all the reasons for the things he done ,
Went a long way,
Just to explain ,
Kissed his boy while he lay sleeping ,
Turned around and went back home again.
My father is a very organized person. He works to help support our family while still making ample time to hang out with us at home. I’m very proud of him.
Sending love and hugs to your pop.
Uh-boy.....I really do understand what you're going through. I had to watch my mother slowly die from this evil disease. I'm sure that it's much harder on us, the children, than it is on your father and was on my mother. My heart goes out to you, Dean.
I loved Harry Chapin. Cats in the Cradle still makes me tear up. And I never tire of hearing Taxi
My Mom's biggest celebrity crush was Harry Chapin. Her favorite story was going to his concert 7/8 months pregnant with me. Harry stopped and laid his hands on her belly and congratulated my parents. She said he was the only songwriter that truly understood a "big girl's" struggle with "A Better Place to Be." I grew up listening to his songs, learning to love him too. I will never forget when I was 9 and my Dad broke the news to Mom that Harry had been killed in a car accident. She burst into tears and we didn't see her for the rest of the night.
My father traveled for a living but never missed a game, concert, play, talent show, choir performance, etc. I like to think "Cat's in the Cradle" influenced these commitments to our family.
The influence your father has on you Adam is a gift to us all, and we can't thank you enough for sharing it.
Wow, thank you
I totally agree! My mother was like this to me with Earth, Wind, and Fire. Love hearing Professor’s stories about his father!
Absolutely #allthefeels 🙏✌️
@@ProfessorofRock He speaks truth bro ;)
Well said.
My dad, who I’ve always been close to, played this song for me in the car when I was pretty young (this was probably the mid-90’s). I remember my mom saying once that this song is his greatest fear.
I’m a new dad to a 9-month-old, and also feel caught between the role of the father and the son. I work hard to provide for my family, but I also want to be there for my own son. Meanwhile, I’m making efforts to visit my parents each month.
Much respect to your dad. My dad was basically abandoned when his mother died along with 8 siblings. Like your dad, instead of mirroring the example he had seen, he became a kind, loving, and humble father. Here’s to our dads.
Cheers 🍻🙏✌️
Its amazing how many "good Dads" had bad ones. I know I try everyday to be the DAD my father was not.
So awesome to hear!
I saw Harry in Concert when I was 21, ten years before my son was born. That song hit me in the gut as a single young adult, and I took it as a warning if I was to have to have kids one day. I certainly was not a perfect dad, but I was present. Every man should hear that song once in his life, for the good of his life as a dad and as a son.
Ya know as a guy who lost his son in January and his father last month this song hits me on multiple levels. My son was 20 killed by a drunk driver and my dad was 78 so i had the opportunity to see them inter act with each other and yes I am just like my dad and my son was just like me. This song means the world to me in this stage of my life.
I am so sorry for your losses, especially your young son.
So very sorry for you tragic losses. My heart breaks for you!
I am so sorry for the loss of your son. It takes great courage to go through such a thing. That's a tribute to you and your son.
God bless you.
God bless you dear
« Leader of the Band » by Dan Fogelberg is also a touching tribute to a father. In this case the dad was inspirational and encouraging. The song also acknowledges the passage of time and the importance of telling those closest to you that you love them.
The Living Years by Mike and the Mechanics is another great one about a father and son although it’s from the 80s.
Valotte by Julian Lennon is also another great father/son song
I listened to DF's greatest hits the other morning. What a poet he was and a beautiful heart and spirit. There seem to be messages in most of their words.
@@mov1ngforward Another great song showing a father's love for his son is “I Don’t Call Him Daddy” by Doug Supernaw. Great video!
Also: Landslide by Stevie Nicks in Fleetwood Mac.
My 3 boys were born in 89-95. This song was a key factor in being aware of my time spent with them and making sure this song message wasn’t my story. They all know the great songs of the 70’s. (American Pie was the family trip sing along in the car) Time is limited until they are on their own. You can’t get it back.
My husband was the father in the song, but he never got the meaning. My husband was home but not there emotionally. My oldest boy had a band called “Factory Damage.” My son wrote a song called “Mr. Selfish.” My husband still didn’t get it. My husband is 81 and doesn’t understand to this day why they don’t visit very long with him. Harry Chaplin was one of my favorites. “Taxi.” Had significance to me. My husband was a taxi cab driver and I met him in a taxi ride home from work in 1974. I missed seeing Harry in an Evansville concert. I remember when he died cried a lot those days following his death. Thank you for the memories. Norma Young Owensboro Ky.
To this day, at 64 years old, I cannot hear this song without crying, including now. My father reminds me of the main character of the song so much. I wish that I had been able to put much more distance between his character and the way he raised me than I was able to. Sadly, my son is gone now, killed by a drunk driving illegal alien. I thank God Himself that the last words I ever spoke to my son, the morning he left for work were, "Son I'm so proud of you, I love you."
“Bittersweet” your last sentence
And my eyes water ….when words mean everything….
I’m so sorry for your great and precious loss.
I get it. I lost my dad from dementia before we could fully reconcile.
Profound condolences.
I could have wept for your father as you told his story. I completely understand growing up with an alcoholic father. I will say, my father never had us go out and do anything so awful. He never left us when we were sick.
I would just love to be able to hug your six year old dad !
This song is one of the reasons that I spent as much time as I could with my boys as they were growing up. Money is nice but temporary. Family brings love and purpose. Thank you, Harry, for sharing this with the world. Adam, thank you for your openness and sharing your passion which came from your dad. Bless you and your family.
Wow! Thank you for sharing. I'm so happy to hear that you did that for our kids. It's PARAMOUNT>
Well, time is tops, yes, but money is underrated. Money, unlike time, allows one to do whatever he or she wants. Time is the more important of the two, but the two in tandem can give unparalleled life experiences.
I would have to agree. I was third of three boys and I spent little time with my dad. He was a WW2 vet and had issues. He died when I was 20. I made sure I would be there for my kids but still made some of the same errors pursuing a career in education with a heavy Saturday sport commitment. Gave up on the idea and ensured I spend a lot of their later teens being there for them. This song haunted me every time I heard it.
This song hit really hard with me in 2019 when my father had to take multiple trips out of town to go all over the US for work purposes. I had to stay with my mother and little sister, and it was kind of hard for her to take care of us all by herself. Luckily, when my dad did come home he spent all the time in the world that he could with us and we learned to appreciate how hard he works to support us through life. He's awesome.
Absolutely 🙏 ✌️
"Little boy blue and the man in the moon..." I wonder if Chapin intended those two characters to refer to his son and him? The "little boy blue" is the sad little boy looking at his father, the bright but distant and cold father in the sky. Always such a tear jerker for me, and too close to home.
So, when I was divorced with 2 children 8 and 10, I would hear the cats and the cradle song and feel horrible about not being with my son and step daughter as much . I started a tradition of every time I heard the song, I would immediately call my son and say to him , cats in the cradle is on, I love you son. My son would also do the same, and now as a 30 year old and very successful young man, we still do this to this day. My new wife who had arrived quickly into our lives and a woman who is instrumental in all of our success, was smitten with the idea, so she started to do the same check in anytime each of them hear Talks to Angels by the Black Crowes..
Love conquered all for us!
@Mark Chisam Love this!!
Damn, this is a real tear-jerker. I hope everyone watches to the end. My dad was an alcoholic too. He quit drinking after I left home and then he got religion. But he was still never able to open up to me and show any kind of vulnerability or intimacy. He was stoic. Private. Deeply avoidant. Never talked about anything important. Lots of talking about the weather. He is still alive and eventually stopped speaking to me altogether due to religious differences with me. I'm an atheist and he's a Jehovah's Witness. He's so feeble now he really could go any day. He turns 87 this year. Thanks for sharing with us Professor. Keep on rockin.
I am a native Long Islander. So was Harry. He was ours. Our Homeboy who made good. Sure there was Billy Joel..but he hadnt yet gotten as far in 1972, 1973. But he was visible,too. Harry was personable. He had an openness to him...a charm...something so special. In my opinion, He wrote with a cutting clarity..as good as Hemingway. But he wasn't self destructive..as Hemingway, was. He had enormous positive energy. To this day his Food Bank donates food to the needy and has for years. It retains his, name, as well. Harry died in a car crash years ago....a few miles from where i was that day. It was like the death of JFK. If you were a Long Islander..you always remember where you were when you heard the news. Billy Joel went onto to be mega famous. Had many hits. Married a Model. Had some trouble with substances, and money. Harry was the guy many OUTSIDE of Long Island forgot. We still carry him, in our hearts. He was the side of Long island many don't know about. Such a talent. Missed, even to this day.
I served in the Navy (USS Truett) and we docked near New Orleans once in the early 90's. Of course we all missed our families, after all it WAS the Navy. One night on the town, one of my shipmates, at a Bourbon Street kareoke bar, bravely got on stage and belted out the most passionate version of Cats In The Cradle I've ever heard. Thank you Shane (can't remember his last name) I've never forgot about your performance that night.
I'm always amazed by the concise and emotional story this song tells.
This song and my own childhood loneliness are the reasons why my kids and I have aways been so close. Their mom bailed when our youngest was almost 3 and, quite literally, this song's message was my foundation and my energy to help fill the void. They grew up into amazing people and not just because they're mine, but because this message rang constantly in me. Beyond powerful stuff.
When you ask if there has ever been a sadder ending to a song (I’ve cried many times hearing this) but there is one that I cry just as hard. Bobby Goldsboro- Honey. It’s so sad.
Heartbreaking song. I remember listening to this song when I was little and thanking god that I had my wonderful father.
I love you and miss you, dad!
Thanks for sharing.
@@ProfessorofRock I’m sorry that you went through tough times with your dad. I’m glad you used it to make you strong. Much respect!
I have a wonderful father too and I thank God for it!
Harry Chapin Greatest Stories Live is the soundtrack to my childhood. His live performances, with his brothers and bandmates, is joyful, moving, emotional, and easy to sing along with. 30,000 Pounds Of Bananas, Mr Tanner, Dreams Go By, Cats In The Cradle, A Better Place To Be, Taxi, Circle, etc. Thanks Mom, your love for this man and his music lives on in me.
Notice in the Simpson's clip the Professor uses, that Homer pays a small homage to "30,000 Pounds of Bananas", along with "Cats in the Cradle".
Songs like cats in the cradle or Jim Croche's time in a bottle will always be powerful, because you can't listen to them without having very personal pieces of youself pulled out and held before your own eyes... some songs just relate to life and time with it's relentless passing so strongly, that you can't let them go, but at the same time, helps to resolve them as "life"... another awesome video professor, thanks for all these wonderful videos, kinda like the Paul Harvey of rock and roll, and now we know the rest of the story!
Jim Croce for sure....
Dang Adam, you really know how to bring tears to my eyes. I lost my dad at the end of 2019. It was a freak type of accident. Dad was healthy overall at 70 years old. He was one of my best friends. I miss him dearly. A lot of our bond revolved around a shared love of music, cars, electronics, computers, and movies. I am over 50. Yet, I really miss him still.
Harry changed for his family, but also his whole life in general. It's ironic he died on his way to a benefit concert. He performed many of them. He became a true humanitarian and an advocate his hunger project. His foundation is still in operation.
I was a senior in high school when this song came out and I always loved it. And then, when my son was 4 years old, and I was working full-time and would hear this song on my way to work on the “classic rock station”, it would make me tear up, because I would feel guilty, as a mom, that I couldn’t be home raising him. My husband and I both loved this song, and it would remind us that we could work hard to make sure we spent time with our kids. Now, we are retired and our kids are good about trying to come see us when they can. But, our son and his wife and kids live 11 hours (by car) away from us so there are times when it’s a reminder that their lives are kind of like ours at that age.
I always loved Harry's music, I remember how sad I was when I heard he had passed away in a auto accident, it made "Cats in a cradle " even sadder for me to hear. My cousin quoted lyrics from it at my Uncles funeral, such a great and true song. I always liked "Taxi " also. I wish Harry could've been with us longer, I'm sure he would've given us alot more good music! Thanks for keeping the music alive Professor!
Same with me! I always got emotional hearing this song knowing he died in an accident.
I find the death of Jim Croce as much sadder. He was on the cusp of being a HUGE star and seemed to be a nice guy.
Harry let the stardom goes to his head, and acted like an ass. Talent doesn't make you a good person. Jim was always a much more down to Earth guy. Probably not a perfect guy, but a nice talented guy.
Maybe Jim would of gotten big headed too, but he didn't live.
Taxi, Greyhound and Dogtown from Harry’s first album are absolute classics, as is the stunning “Flowers Are Red” from 1978. But the shining light for me has always been “She Is Always Seventeen”.
I remember listening to this song on a "70's Gold" double album I bought back in the early 80's at age 10 (with the help from my parents. Mail orders only). One day when I was listening to it, my mom said, "There's one song that you'll never be able to relate to." Both of my parents were always there for me, helping with my homework, taking us to theme parks, playing baseball, chess, video games, whatever. They always had time for my sisters & me. The theme of this song is very sad, and I'm thankful I could never relate to it.
Sounds like we had similar parents. I learned from my dad how to be a good dad. My son has told me how much he is grateful for my attention. He has his own son now and hopefully he will be a good dad, too.
I can’t relate to it either. My parents have always been there for me every step of the way. They make sure I am loved, feel safe and comfortable through life.
I was about 14 when this song was popular. My parents were not like the dad in the song either. But I still could relate to it based on things some of my friends and school mates were going through with parents going through divorces etc. I mentioned something about liking the song to my mom and she seemed to be a bit irritated with me. I think she thought I was relating to it on a personal level and couldn't understand why. It was more that I understood the message of the song and felt empathy for people who experienced similar issues.
I don't think you need to "relate" to it, to understand it, and sympathize with those who it unfortunately DO relate to it. It's a very sad song, set to great music. But it's a song that for many, it's all too real.
One of the Best Songs ever written.
Imagine writing a song that changes peoples lives! What a blessing. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story.
Influencing generations.
To me one of the saddest songs is another Chapin song about loneliness called A Better Place to Be. It has a kind of happy ending but he so accurately portrays the crushing loneliness that comes to most people at times so accurately that you can feel it in your bones. Chapin was one of the greatest songwriters that we have ever had.
Totally agree! Been a fan for nearly 50 years and have aĺl his work. Better Place his best.
If people really love "Taxi" and "Cats in the Cradle", they need to treat themselves to a listen of the whole catalog or one of his recorded concerts.
He of course, had his somber and deep meaningful songs, but the overall effect of his music in whole is so joyous.
That was a very good song
I'm very fortunate to have a father who used every opportunity to spend time with his family. Even so, this is definitely a tough listen because there are people who weren't so lucky. RIP Harry Chapin
Exactly... Thank you for sharing your experience of a great father.
Me too! My father works very hard to support me and the rest of my family.
As a child of the 70's, I really appreciate the Professor covering this song.
I've loved this channel for a while now, but this one in particular is absolutely spectacular, with back stories that were unknown to me.
Some of us unfortunately grew up without any Dad in the house. I have had several friends who have Dad's, and I tell them just how lucky they are. I don't know wich is worse, not having a Dad, or having a absent or disfunctional Dad.
I remember hearing this song being played on the radio back in the 80's. It's great to hear the powerful story behind the song. Thanks.
How kids who grow up with abusive fathers?
@@Out_of_My_Head No, how kids that grow up with abusive fathers can break the cycle like Adam's dad! Not everyone's story ends badly!
That's true; if you have love, you have everything -- but not everyone knows that. I was raised by parents that shouldn't have had kids, and of course (he says ashamedly) I made many, but not all, of the same mistakes -- we all learn what we live. I am now the only survivor of my birth family, I outlived my parents and little brother. And I now have a family for whom I thank God daily, but they're all grown now and I made many of those mistakes when they were in their critical years. I think I've now atoned for all that awful behavior, but I wasn't physically or emotionally abusive ... that's all I can say in my own defense, and all I could give my wife & kids was my own sobriety a long time ago. My kids are all still alive, and THEY have kids who love their poppop; and as ironic as it sounds for me to say so, it's what life's all about. If you have love, you have everything. Don't have a lot of money any more, but that's not important. Love is. _Did I break the cycle?_ I'll never really know for certain, I'm still not perfect, but I sure as hell tried. That doubt sucks; but it could be _a lot_ worse. With all I just said, listen closely: *don't waste time. You'll never get it back.*
What a great episode! That story your Dad told you about his Dad choked me up. The way you weaved to story of the song and your Dad’s story about his Dad was masterful. Thanks again.
Adam, PoR, you always have the right segment to have me as one of your honorary producers! It's when the segment usually sounds like my life story or a story in my life.
Your family story brought me to tears. My Dad was an alcoholic but he was there for us. My Mom left when I was 8 because of his drinking & lying to her. Funny thing, she left with his best friend. Talk about lies.
My Dad didn't have a lot of time for us as he was a military man trying to work enough to support his 3 children (& drink too). But he was *ALWAYS* my hero!
He quit drinking, cleaned himself up & was there for us as much as he could be.
I became an interstate truckie, just like my father, who hardly ever spent any time with me. But growing up with this song, I vowed I would NOT be just like him. I became a father at 42. Althoughstill an interstate truckie, I've never missed any of my kids births, birthdays, & when I do get home, my day off is devoted to them. & I video call them every night to let them know how much I love them & miss them. My job does not allow me to tuck them in every night. But because of this song, I make every opportunity to spend as much time as possible with them. It still brings me to tears every time I hear it
This song was one of my dad's favorites and we lost him a couple years ago. It hits to close to home I will have to watch this later. Miss you everyday dad
Wow, rest in peace to your dad.
I'm so sorry. I know exactly how you feel. It never gets any easier, but the memories keep me going. Peace to you friend.
Amen.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 thank you so much
@Anna Trail thank you
SAD TRUE STORY: My best friend from childhood. (I have to keep his name private as he is well known) He grew up wanting to be be a "G.I Joe guy", He went into the military and went right up the ranks. Now in his 50's he contacts me to tell me he is getting the highest honor in the military. I flew across country to be there . I recorded his acceptance speech. His speech was supposed to be upbeat and exciting. Instead he focused on the song Cats in the cradle. He mentioned every line in the song. Imagine leading tens of thousand of troops into hardcore battle for 2 decades. Imagine all the American body bags, that were under his command. Imagine all the men under his command that came home dismembered. Then one month later he took his own life from the guilt of not being with his family due to military life. He never drank or did any drugs, a perfect human. I am not sure if he committed suicide to be honest. Some people that high up and have massive control, "strange things happen to them" and the press sucks.
So very sad.
I bet every man that has every come to that realization that he's missed out on life spending time making a living has wanted to put a gun to his own head. I'm so sorry for you and the loss of what was a certified great man in your friend and for the loss to his family that would've been happy to have him in any capacity.
I site this song as the thing that puts that extra energy and motivation in me that I thought was completely gone at the end of a long work week and I had to make the 2 hour trek to see my own son and daughter or give up on something I wanted to do, or live on noodles and coffee so I could make that child support payment. I'd walk an hour to get to work because I couldn't fix the old car that eventually got repo'ed. I'd sing me a line or two and I'd show up with a smile on my face. I made it to their graduations and made sure to do what I could to make a holiday or birthday as special as I could. The kids are in their 20s now and they will call almost every weekend to tell me how much the miss me and love me. It's the best I could do but I was damned to let my children say something like...Ya, I can relate to this song.
@@WilliamSilva-dq6zj I am going to add to my comment. Thank you for yours.
Thank you for sharing.
I think I met the guy you’re talking about. At least, I met someone who had the same end and was at the top of the chain. How many have there been?
As one who suffers from depression, the father of 5 sons, finds it very difficult to talk about personal things, and to even get out of the house, this song haunts me. I was a single father raising my boys for many years and I tried to always do right by them. We did plenty of activities together and I told them I loved them all the time and they always said it back. The problem is once they left to be on their own, as they all have, I find it very difficult to talk with them.
This video has me crying. I desperately miss them, three of them live on the other side of the world, and it's hard to make it out the front door, much less travel 14,000 miles to visit them, but for some weird reason, this song always gives me hope.
Much love to you, brother.
Urroner,,, technology is capable of being a great blessing. You should seek out help for your depression and you should try to find ways to communicate your love for your boys. I am the only child of my parents before my Mom walked out on my Dad for being on third shift trying to earn a living for his family and my Mom walked out because she wanted more. She took me with her and like to killed my Dad in doing so.
I've been drug all over the world with her and a violent string of men she laid down with in subsequent years. I have scars and broken bones to show for all of it, but I came back home to be near to my Dad and extended family. Writing about all this has been sometimes tumultuous for me, but largely helps get it out on the page.
Don't know if you have tried to write for your own sanity or to reach out to your boys, but it might help Sir.
Godspeed in your travails.
@Needlesmith in GA What source do you use?
Get help! Talk to them! Life is very short, do not wait until you do not have the opportunity to talk with them. I am a veteran and am 73 years old. I came out of the military and did not know how messed up I was. Anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts ect. My life was sort of like Harry's but I was not a rock star. Like Harry though, I ignored my home life with my wife. Doing that, just like Harry, it almost cost me my marriage and would have ended not only my marriage, but also my life. Unbelievably she hung in somehow. I got help, and with her help, we are still together after 50 years and somehow I am still here. I am only here because of her help and outside help too. Just like Harry, I was able to hang on to what mattered most.
@@bobbys4327 My first wife left me. Little did we know we were both going through depression.. She's from Australia, so when she left, she took our three boys with her there. That made everything a lot worse. Coming home to an empty house really took a toll on me.
I got the boys back a little over a year later. She couldn't deal with three active boys. Sadly, she never really did anything to help with her depression.
I went to counseling very often starting in 1992 through the early 2000s. I got married again, but it was a bad decision. Gain 2 more boys and another ex. De nidec to wait u till I had my head on right before getting into any type of ro antic relationship.
My boys realize it's not in it right now to call them, so they call me.
Counseling, antidepressants, and having kids to raise saved me. I'm pushing 70 and life not too bad except for the stress. I'll retire when I turn 70. I love my job and the people I work with, so I'm in no rush.
I'm happy you found a keepr. That's awesome and thanks for the concern.
Why did I watch this in a place that could not cry.
Wow, this song has made me very emotional every time I hear it. I just think of the extremely tragic way he died in a traffic collision and how he could have lived longer to inspire more and more generations of people. This is just such a truly haunting song. Thanks Professor.
I was very close to my dad growing up. Even though I was a girl, he'd take me to the junk yard to look for car parts, have me help him with his woodworking projects, take me fishing and hunting, and take me on motorcycle rides, until I was old enough to ride on my own. And my dad and I shared music. In the early 70s the economy was tanking, and we had to move several times. By late 1973, my dad started a job that would required him to be on the road for weeks at a time, especially during the summer months when my little brother and I would be out of school. Cats in the Cradle came out; I loved it. I loved the music and the story...I liked the twist at the end. I gave my dad the 45 for Christmas. He later came to me, and asked if that was how I felt. The look in his eyes... It was like the wind had been knocked out of me. I hadn't thought about it applying to us. I understood why he had to be on the road, and I knew that he would time his trips so he could be home at least every other weekend so he could spend it with my brother and me. Years later, my mom told me how guilty my father felt having to be away from home those years. I always felt guilty for giving him that song.
Harry has been #1 in my book forever, got all of his albums, seen his movie, the Cotton Patch Gospel musical (twice) he wrote the music for and never tire of his music. I am so glad his music is very personal for you in this episode, whereas other interviews I have watched is more of "your job." He has so many songs that elicit emotions - Sniper (If you're not shaken by this song, there is something wrong with you), Bummer, Corey's Coming, Flowers Are Red (the anthem we raised our children by), Tangled Up Puppet (The female version of Cat's In The Cradle), The Mayor of Candor Lied, Mr. Tanner (A Dry Cleaner from Ohio - the real story is crazy. Years after Harry passed, the real Dry Cleaner, Mr. Turbidy, started getting calls asking if he was Mr. Tanner? He hung up on these strange calls, then listened to the song one day for the first time. And recognized he is Mr. Tanner. He has sung the song on stage with Harry's brothers. Amazing.
Oh, yeah!! I love that song, too, and that story about the real “Mr. Tanner” ! Love it!
"I'd trade all of my tomorrows for one single yesterday." Me and Bobby McGee hurts my heart each time I hear it, especially Janis Joplin's cover.
Kris Kristofferson wrote and sang a pretty great version himself, but Janis feels every heartache in the song that Kris penned.
I have a girl in my past that I might make that "tomorrows for yesterday" trade for. If we are lucky, we all do.
When my husband passed away I learned what that line really meant. I would gladly trade the rest of my life to have just another ordinary day with the most wonderful man ever.
Harry Chapin was one of the most daring, funny and brutally honest singer songwriters of the 1970s from the brilliant but disturbing character study of sniper to the romantic and endearing I want to right a love song Harry left an amazing legacy of music that decades later is still so powerful
I often think his catalog is often To powerful for this day and age. So many people "crushed" by emotions that they cant get to the end of a paragraph of lyrics..they MUST turn it off. It just reminds of being human, and THAT they want no part of, I guess.
@@georgebarry8640 Harry's lyrics and music have a very strong and powerful impact and what set Harry apart was his choices of subject matter and his unflinching and unnerving delivery of his songs
Oh those sad songs. Can I add one: in 1982 I lost my father to Cancer, He was only 52 and the love of so many of our friends lives. Song that epitomized my father was as Dan Fogelberg said "the most important song I ever wrote was Leader of the Band". And to this day I cannot listen to it without crying. It was on the radio when I got the call from my Stepmom announcing his passing the night prior.
I saw Harry Chapin once in concert, and he was the first one to bring my attention to world hunger. My own father died when I was 11, and I can clearly picture the smile on his face when I played catch with him the year that he passed. "Cat's in the Cradle" is the one song that always brings a tear to my eye when I hear it. Watching this video brought a tear to my eye.
In the Ghetto remains one of the saddest of the era for me. But this one, Harry's Cat's in the Cradle proved to be the most prophetic. My folks were getting divorced when this song came out, I was 12, and I still love it today!
You just nailed it. The best authentic version of you. Reflecting within me, as a father, as a son, my eyes flowed tears from the truth known.
Thank you Adam for being so genuine, and thanks to Harry and his wife for that song..!
Hey, beautiful song that speaks of the realities that many fathers have had to go through and many mothers have wished her fathers would understand it
I always liked how the perspective of the song changed as it progressed. Highlighting how the son can become the father in more ways than the obvious. It's right up there with The Living Years for father/son songs. Tragic but beautiful.
This song meant a lot to me.. my dad was always there until he wasn’t. And that was true until I was 11 my sister 9. He remarried and I lost him totally to my cruel demented step-mother. But I was already loved and cherished enough by him to carry on.
l was solid, strong but gentle I knew myself in my own mind.
In my marriage and in our little family I was totally accessible. They forever had me in all aspects of their lives until I wasn’t. (teenagers/young adults) They’re back now with a vengeance. And I love it. I’m blessed once again.
Always makes me tear up.
Three chords, the truth, and a box of Kleenex.
You really poured your heart into this one, Adam. I'm surprised you didn't break down, but that may have been left on the cutting room floor.
Omg the end part of this show made me tear up about my dad great story telling
Harry was the greatest singer-song writer who ever lived. He was a great man, who tried to help everyone. His concerts were incredible. He and Big John Wallace teamed to make records that were never matched.
I read to my son every night till we’ll after he could read for himself. Even so, there were years that I didn’t spend enough time with him. The time we did spend together was so worth it, because now he still spends time with me.
Every college in the United States in the 70s had at least a concert by Harry Chapin. Many of them were free if you bought food in cans for the homeless or some type of charitable thing. His father actually taught Peter Kriss of kiss how to play drums
His father was a reknowned Drummer. He had a Video out in the 80s ..I saw it. I didnt think a human could play like that on the drums!!! Harrys entire family played music, and I was lucky enough to play a gig or two with one of them. Nice people.
Agree!....I saw him at Baylor in 74 or 75.
I attended one of Harry Chapin's concerts while in college late '70s. Growing up, my dad was in the US Air Force and was in the Viet Nam theater for a year two different times. In spite of his own father's poor modeling, I fondly remember all the time my dad spent with me.
I worked multiple jobs and or side jobs most of my life. Didn't have a whole lotta time to spend time with my ex wife and kids. I was able to go to my daughter's talent show at school. She sang this song and made me cry. I was heart broken.
"Someday Never Comes" by CCR is a beautiful, but lesser-known song that is thematically similar to the Cat's in the Cradle.
It's great and worth hearing
Great song!
My Dad didn’t have time for me when I was a kid. I was his caregiver his last few years. In one of his final days in hospice he apologized for not being more attentive. What could I say besides “It’s ok.” Life goes on.
Like you, Adam, I was blessed with a father who loves me and my younger brother, and has always been involved in our lives. He's approaching 90 now, but he still lives the example I try to follow. But even with that, this song has always spoken to my heart. This song, along with my dad's example, are what guided me in my effort to be a loving and involved father for my two daughters. It's a deeply meaningful song and I can only imagine how many lives it has impacted and changed. This song is a priceless gift to us all.
Long, long time, sung by Linda Ronstadt!
As a broken hearted teen I’d played this song endlessly, on my record player, and cried, sang alone, and cried more!!!
Same here, I always cry when I hear this song 😭
This song has a lot of meaning for me. My dad loved me, but had serious alcohol and skirt chasing issues that split my family. It’s a shame we spent so little time together.
Sounds like my Dad very self centered
MR. Tanner, one of his greatest. A song about a man whose spirit was broken by little men with no talent.
always loved this song, i made it my priority to be in my daughter's life 24/7 when she was born soon she'll be 16
You couldn’t dislike this amazing song even if it wasn’t your jam, you got the message. How fortunate you had a good father. Great story, great video.
People can change when they decide to so on their own, when they want to do it for their own good on their own terms. Things have to take drastic a turn before that happens. Often that is a health or safety scare or a lifestyle scare. What is really sad is that speaks to many of us raised by fathers of the era when men were only expected to provide financially to their families vs. being a real part of their life and upbringing. Us Gen X peeps really get this.
Love this song! It had an impact on my dad’s life as a young dad with 3 kids working long hours too. I think I grew to like it so much, because of how much I heard him play it.
Adam thank you so much for this story. It has been an awakening for my memory. I to grew up without a father and only saw him at his funeral at age twelve only because I was forced to go to it. I to have a daughter from whom I have had an on/off relationship. She is in her forties and I only woke up to my neglect late last year when she asked me to be at her wedding to give her away. She was so adamant that she bought me a plane ticket and went out of her way to make me comfortable in her home. This story has made me realise that the lost times will never be regained but only the now and the future can create the relationship that should have been.
Thank you for the story behind this song. This is another song my grade school music teacher played on his guitar. I still have the lyrics memorized from this experience. Also, my favorite Beatle is...All of them!😊
Ha ha. Thanks Catherine.
Tears rolling this episode…… your poor father but look at your tribute so beautiful….
Probably one of the most memorable concerts I ever attended was his concert at the Greek Theater in 1980, very entertaining, still have a couple of his albums. It was a shock to hear of his death a year later. His music still lives in me. As a former radio dj in the late 60s many an artist were known to me, but Harry was special.
I remember the night my father died. I got the phone call from the hospital and I was 3 hours away. I was speeding down the interstate at 11:30 p.m. trying to get to the hospital to say goodbye to him. I remember I was two and a half hours away. Then suddenly I felt this pain in my heart. I knew at that moment that he had passed and I didn't make it. I looked at my watch and check the time. I slowed down. When I got to the hospital. The nurses told me that he was already on his way to the mortuary. I asked her what time did he pass. It was the exact time that I noted on my watch. When a son loses his father it's like suddenly being lost in the wilderness.
Beautiful sharing of the Professor’s personal life. He wouldn’t have the love, passion and deep understanding of the music that we all love if he wasn’t the amazing man that he is
...and we have his father to thank for shaping the man that he is and for influencing his taste in music.
I was a young 18yr old in college eating lunch and Harry walks in(FARMINGDALE COLLEGE) And he starts befrending people.He walked over to me and said hello.He was offering T shirts for his Charity begins at home.I purchased 1 for $5!!! And Harry signed it. He was a superstar but Seemed like just another guy.That was 1978. God Bless Harry.I played his albums for my kids growing up.A lot of Happy moments I made sure to spend w MY kids when I could.Unfortunately my wife divorced me when kids were young and I never DID get to spend enough time with them."CATS" Makes me Happy and Sad whenever I hear it.Miss you Harry.😪
A great deal of people have analyzed this timeless song over the decades Professor; you did a masterful job of translating life events turned into music and lyrics into therapy and a cautionary tale in a great, great song. My dad is gone now; he was a child of the depression, and later in his life, my military career was behind me, I was fortunate to have more time to spend with him after his stroke. He deteriorated gradually over a couple of years until he passed in September '20. Many don't have an opportunity to tell their dad how fortunate they were to learn from him and to tell him how his life lessons taught early in life helped in tough times. This song is a reminder of the work you have to do in any relationship...but most importantly, the example you set for your kids. Thanks Professor!
My son's (14) father (60) is the person who would never change. Over the years my son begged him to quit drinking. He gave up recently I always thought I would give him another chance to be a family. Cats in the cradle is the song that has stuck with me since the 80s when I was old enough to understand. Now I cry when I here it. Thanks Prof. For your videos.
That song is so deep, so melancholy, I never listen to it much on purpose. The redeemed Mr Chapin got 8 years with his family. Too bad it wasn’t a longer lifetime. I was still thinking of this video after I watched it yesterday because what a shock that he died so young after all. Imagine how razor closely he almost missed the chance to redeem himself. What a bitter and sweet story. Very haunting.
I think about what you said about your Dad and his father. Not so different from my Dads story. His father was gone when he was 9 mos old. My Dad is a good Dad. He was there for the 4 of us and my Mom. Thankfully he is still with us today.
Thanks Professor👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🌹
This song has always meant so much to me because of my own relationship with my father. Thank you for opening up about your father struggles and how he changed his family tree. I have 3 teenage boys and work every day to be the best father to them. Once again your channel is so inspiring. Thank you.
All of Harry's songs are amazing...And the wisdom they impart are amazing!
Thank you for being so real. 🌹🌹🌹I was in high school, college, and then having babies at the time Harry Chapin was doing his music and for sure his work changed my life. My personal favorite was "Flowers Are Red" -- which totally influenced how I saw my kids and valued them for their differences. Heʻs such a phenomenal storyteller; I admire him for his stories. And thank you for yours. 🌹🌹🌹
FUN FACT!! If you watch Jerry Seinfeld Comedians in Cars Gettting Coffee, a famous actress (I forget which one) told a story about being a kid at the right place, right time, landing the singing part of the children's chorus on that song!
Am a 53 yr. old single Dad of three daughters(12,11,9) and been so for almost nine years now. I adore Chapin and it brings tears to my eyes to hear my girls sing his songs. They all have different favs my oldest luvs "Mr.Tanner", my middle luvs "Cats in the Cradle" and my youngest "Bananas". He was an amazing story teller !!!
As a 65 year old father whose 31 year old son who still lives with us, this song always reminds me I didn’t do everything right but it reminds me I can do better and I do.
There's a reason for it, look at the state of the world, not a time to go into the new frontier. Don't apologize and don't explain how your life looks...it's not anyone's business. Get right with God and you will be guided in the right direction. Find a bible story or myth/legend for big picture... I hope that makes sense. Go forward with no regrets and enjoy each day.
Thanks for making me cry at work. Harry Chapin was the greatest. And the last couple of minutes of this video were just great. Take care.
There's a lifetime of parenting experience in a song... beautiful.
It's really quite amazing.
Such poetry.
My dad was a teacher at a small community college but highly respected in his area of expertise. He spent long hours at times because he took his job and the student’s needs seriously. He was also extremely fearful of being a failure. This song scared the hell out of him. He always struggled with balance but I never felt he was ever truly absent. He’s been gone 15 years now and I miss him everyday and hope I’ve been as good a dad to my kids as he was for us. Love ya dad.
I love this song . It is very sad and personal. Many of us that grew up in the 70's can relate to this experience, even if though our version may differ. That is not to say that our fathers never loved us, they just had a hard time expressing it. My own father was driven to be a successful salesman and spent a lot of time away from home on business trips. Even when home he liked to go the bar at night and drink with friends. He was a good man though and never abandoned his family. I regret not getting to know him better before he passed away.
What are you trying to do to me? Got me all misty eyed in the middle of work! Now I gotta go home and spend quality time with my little girl. Honestly though fantastic job with this one!
I was in high school when this came out. I loved it. I was fortunate to have a Dad that was always *present *, not just physically but emotionally. The song always got me though. Still does.
Tears are falling for your poor Dad . It must have been so sad for him. He obviously took notice of Harry's words though and was not like his Dad.
Love your show. Love music. ❤🇭🇲
I saw Harry in concert twice, in 1976 and 1977. I sang with him and a group of people from the audience on the last 3 songs he sang in 1976 ( Taxi, Someone Keeps Calling My Name, and Circle) . He didn't have his band with him that year. To say it was unforgettable is an understatement. I still love his songs and wish more people today knew them.