Song for My Father
Madlib Lyrics


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If there was ever a man
Who was generous, gracious and good
That was my dad
The man
A human being so true
He could live like a king
'Cause he knew
The real pleasure in life

To be devoted to
And always stand by me
So I'd be unafraid and free

If there was ever a man
Who was generous, gracious and good
That was my dad
The man
A human being so true
He could live like a king
'Cause he knew
The real pleasure in life

To be devoted to
And always stand by me
So I'd be unafraid and free

If there was ever a man
Who was generous, gracious and good




That was my dad
The man, The man

Overall Meaning

These lyrics are a tribute to the singer's father, who the singer depicts as a generous, gracious, and good man. The singer emphasizes that his father was not only a good person in general, but someone who was true and devoted to him specifically. The line "He could live like a king 'cause he knew the real pleasure in life" implies that the father did not need wealth or material possessions to have a fulfilling life; rather, he found happiness in being a good person and being there for his family.


The repeated lines at the end of each stanza ("If there was ever a man / Who was generous, gracious and good / That was my dad / The man") further emphasize the singer's admiration and respect for his father, while also underscoring the idea that the father was an exceptional person who stood out among others. The song overall is a touching tribute to a father who was not just a good person, but also a great father.


Line by Line Meaning

If there was ever a man
There wasn't anyone like my father


Who was generous, gracious and good
He was always kind and thoughtful


That was my dad
He was my father


The man
He was a human man


A human being so true
He was always honest and loyal


He could live like a king
He lived life to the fullest


'Cause he knew
He understood


The real pleasure in life
The true joy in living


To be devoted to
He was committed to


And always stand by me
He was always there for me


So I'd be unafraid and free
To give me courage and liberty




Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: HORACE SILVER

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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