From the moment I could talk I was ordered to listen/
Now there’s a way and I know that I have to go away.

In “Father and Son”, Cat Stevens does something on this song that I am surprised is not used more often. He uses different voices for different characters in the songs. The song is about a father and a son attempting to communicate to each other—but with limited success.

For the voice of the father, Stevens uses a lower register; for the son, he uses a higher voice. The background singers seem to be singing the opposite characters’ perspective when Stevens sings lead, though this fact it not as important for catching the gist of the song.

It is a brilliant composition and concept for a song. Ultimately neither the father or the son is right or wrong. I imagine that your interpretation of the lyrics would be influenced heavily by where you are in life. Stevens does a good job of presenting both sides fairly. The father makes a great point: “You may still be here tomorrow, but your dreams may not.”

I find “Father and Son” to be very emotionally moving, and I can imagine this situation playing out across the world every day. Or, more accurately, all the time, throughout time. I don’t believe this song ever got much radio play or is considered the masterpiece that it is except by Stevens fans—which surprises me given its universal themes, strong melody, unique concept and strong vocal performance. This might be one of the most under-rated songs on this list.

More great songs by Cat Stevens.

Father and Son Lyrics

(father)
It’s not time to make a change,
Just relax, take it easy.
You’re still young, that’s your fault,
There’s so much you have to know.
Find a girl, settle down,
If you want you can marry.
Look at me, I am old, but I’m happy.

I was once like you are now, and I know that it’s not easy
To be calm when you’ve found something going on.
But take your time, think a lot,
Why, think of everything you’ve got;
For you will still be here tomorrow, but your dreams may not.

(son)
How can I try to explain? ‘Cause when I do he turns away again.
It’s always been the same, same old story.
From the moment I could talk I was ordered to listen!
Now there’s a way and I know that I have to go away.
I know I have to go.

(father)
It’s not time to make a change,
Just sit down, take it slowly.
You’re still young, that’s your fault,
There’s so much you have to go through.
Find a girl, settle down,
If you want you can marry.
Look at me, I am old, but I’m happy.

(Son)
All the times that I cried, keeping all the things I knew inside!
It’s hard, but it’s harder to ignore it.
If they were right, I’d agree, but it’s them they know not me,
Now there’s a way and I know that I have to go away.
I know I have to go.

written by Cat Stevens