***3-3-2012 Revised lyrics make more sense. Changes highlighted
This song was inspired by my friend, Clark Mortensen, (Rathole on Songramp). I've been communicating with Clark about life, kids and grandkids. I guess it's a cycle and we are all in it somewhere. I have lost a lot of friends in the past few years, all fathers. I believe fathers see things differently through their eyes. So much of what a father does (or does not do) can greatly affect the whole family. .
Last night, I picked out my usual 2.5 chord melody and then got with Jay Speight this morning to pick it with an Americana style and put on a great vocal. I can sing no better than Mitt Romney (who is horrible). It's pretty simple song but I think Jay's skill and vocal take it far beyond where I was with this morning. Jon Hanson 2-1-2012
A FATHER'S EYES
© 2012 Jon Hanson (2:38)
I remember the day my father died
I was young and I cried and cried
Every time I hear a family’s lost a dad
I remember losing - the best friend I ever had
CHORUS:
AND NOW I KNOW WHY I CRY WHEN A FATHER DIES
IT'S BECAUSE NOW I LIVE BEHIND A FATHERS EYES
AND I'M SEEING ALL THE THINGS THAT FATHERS LOVE
PRAYING THAT THEY SEE US—FROM UP ABOVE
Some days I still hear him speak to me
Giving me strength when I'm feeling weak
Wish we could sit and just watch a game
But I'm old enough to know-things can't stay the same
Repeat CHORUS:
BRIDGE:
Maybe, Dad, love is only memories
And if it is I know you're still here with me
Repeat CHORUS:
I also wrote a little more upbeat song with a similar theme here: Both Ends (also Jay Vocal)