[2025] A Collection of Classic Western Songs Themed Around Grandfathers and Grandmothers
Just as Japan has Respect for the Aged Day, the United States and Italy have “Grandparents Day,” albeit not officially in some cases, and China has days such as the Double Ninth Festival to honor the elderly.
In Japan, where nuclear families are increasingly common, many people may find it difficult to see their grandparents, and the feelings of gratitude and care for older adults are truly universal.
In this article, we’ve researched classic Western songs themed around grandfathers and grandmothers, gathering a wide range of tracks from various eras and genres.
Alongside country music—which often features songs about family—and timeless classics, we’ve also included recent hits and tracks from unexpected genres.
Enjoy this diverse lineup!
[2025] A roundup of classic Western songs themed around grandfathers and grandmothers (1–10)
Slipped AwayAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne is a key figure who helped evolve genres like modern rock, power pop, and pop rock into globally mainstream styles.
She’s an extremely popular artist in Japan as well.
While many of her songs are upbeat, her ballads are also outstanding.
In “Slipped Away,” she delivers a moving piece that reflects on grandparents to whom she never got to say a final goodbye.
If you enjoy lyrical, expressive writing, be sure to check it out.
marjorieTaylor Swift

Let me introduce “marjorie,” a song about parting and the positive feelings that can arise from it.
This track is dedicated by Taylor Swift to her grandmother, singer Marjorie Finlay.
In the song, she conveys the message that “even after someone has passed away, they continue to live on in our hearts.” A highlight is how you can feel both her respect as a fellow singer and her deep love as a family member.
Why not listen to it while reflecting on your own relationship with your grandfather or grandmother?
Afire LoveEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran, a singer-songwriter who represents the United Kingdom.
The song in which he sings about memories of his grandfather is Afire Love.
The track begins with the scene of his grandfather’s passing and goes on to depict how his grandfather had suffered from Alzheimer’s while alive, and how Ed Sheeran grieved over it.
The song then closes at the funeral.
Combined with his sorrowful vocals and a simple, piano-centered melody, it’s truly heart-wrenching.
NanaThe 1975

The 1975, the rock band whose recent appearance at Summer Sonic is still fresh in our minds, has a song called “Nana,” written by vocalist Matty Healy in memory of his late grandmother.
The track captures not only the profound grief and sense of loss he personally experienced, but also the gradual process of looking forward again.
For those who’ve gone through something similar, it may resonate especially deeply.
And when you listen, I hope you take the time to read the lyrics closely.
EpiphanyTaylor Swift

Global songstress Taylor Swift.
Her 2020 release “Epiphany” is known as a song honoring healthcare workers.
However, it’s also actually a track themed around her grandfather.
The first half of the lyrics specifically sing about her grandfather, drawing on his experiences in World War II to convey the preciousness of life.
The song as a whole has a sacred atmosphere, built on a gentle melody and soaring high vocals.
Just listening to it can be healing and make your heart feel lighter.
Sunday CandyDonnie Trumpet & The Social Experiment

If you’re looking for a song that conveys love and gratitude to a grandmother, I recommend Sunday Candy.
It was created by The Social Experiment, the band led by trumpet player Donnie Trumpet and Chance the Rapper.
Set to a tropical-tinged sound, it sings about the warm relationship between a boy and his grandmother.
The song overflows with feelings for a grandmother who always gave her all for the boy.
Be sure to listen to the vocals, which expand richly from the rap parts to a grand choral section.
Better DaysDianne Reeves

Jazz singer Dianne Reeves.
From her album “Welcome to My Love,” I’d like to introduce the song “Better Days.” This track depicts memories between Dianne Reeves and her grandmother.
In the first half, it sings about young Dianne’s interactions with her grandmother and how she would entertain her by reading stories.
In the second half, her grandmother passes away, and the song portrays Dianne Reeves as an adult mourning her loss.
A key point is how even sad events are conveyed through beautiful expression.





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