Classic Western songs that express gratitude to parents. Recommended popular tracks.

Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)Billy Joel

Billy Joel – Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel) (Official Video)

A love song “from a father to his daughter” by Billy Joel, the world-renowned singer-songwriter born in New York, USA.

Released in 1993, it’s included on River of Dreams, which was Billy’s only original album of the ’90s, and is a masterpiece built around a beautiful piano accompaniment.

As the Japanese title “Nemuritsuku Kimi e” (“Lullabye [Goodnight, My Angel]”) suggests, it is a lullaby whose lyrics and melody, written from a father’s tender, loving perspective toward his beloved daughter, offer a cleansing, moving experience.

Father–daughter time may not come often, but on the special occasion of Father’s Day, listening to this song together might help you put your feelings of gratitude into words.

Papa Come Quick (Jody & Chico)Bonnie Raitt

Papa Come Quick (Jody & Chico) – Bonnie Raitt

“Papa Come Quick” is a song that dads everywhere are bound to love.

It’s sung by Bonnie Raitt, who is also a blues guitarist.

Her guitar skills and cool, powerful voice have captivated many listeners.

The track is included on her 1991 album, Luck of the Draw.

A Song For MamaBoyz II Men

Boyz 2 Men – A Song For Mama 2011 NEW!!!!!

Boyz II Men are a male R&B vocal group that represents the United States.

Sung with perfectly synchronized harmonies, this song conveys a straightforward “thank you” to mothers.

Even the gratitude that’s usually too embarrassing to say out loud is something you’ll want to express directly, just like the lyrics of this song.

Because it’s sung with that distinctive, sexy male vocal, the classic theme somehow resonates deeply.

Centered around the piano with nearly all other unnecessary sounds stripped away, it lets you savor the vocals to the fullest.

Mama’s SongCarrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood – Mama’s Song (Official Video)

This song, which expresses the singer’s gratitude to her mother as she prepares to get married, is by the American country singer Carrie Underwood.

The message woven into the lyrics is, “He’s a really good man, so please feel at ease sending me off.” Hometowns and family are common themes in country music, and this track is a quintessential example.

Her country-singer vocals and the acoustic sound also carry a certain sense of nostalgia.

Look What You’ve DoneDrake

Drake – Look What You’ve Done (Take Care)

A song from Canadian hip-hop artist Drake’s 2011 album “Take Care.” It expresses his gratitude to his mother for helping him become the man he is today.

The album won a Grammy Award.

Father Of MineEverclear

Everclear – Father Of Mine (Official Music Video)

Everclear is a rock band from Oregon, known as a leading act in alternative rock and post-grunge.

Their raw, realistic lyrics leave a strong impression, and their powerful messages are loved by rock enthusiasts around the world.

Among their songs, the one I’d recommend for Father’s Day is “Father of Mine.” It portrays a child raised in a single-father household, expressing the resolve: “I’m not going to be like my dad—I’ll build a happy, harmonious family of my own.”

Cat’s in the CradleHarry Chapin

Cat’s in the Cradle

Though not widely known in Japan, Harry Chapin is highly regarded in his native United States not only for his talent as a musician but also for his energetic philanthropic work.

This is his biggest hit song.

Released in 1974, it reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

It’s also well known for being covered by the American rock band Ugly Kid Joe in 1993, becoming a revival hit.

From the title “Cat’s in the Cradle,” you might wonder, “Where’s the father element?” But through skillful turns of phrase and metaphors, it’s a folk-style piece that narratively portrays the relationship between father and son as if telling a story.

Give it a listen while thinking about the deeper meaning of the lyrics together with your dad.