“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something truly magical about a song that feels like a warm hug, and “Papa What If” by Rory Feek and his daughter is exactly that. It’s not just a song—it’s a heartfelt conversation between a father and his child, wrapped in the simplicity of love, curiosity, and the bond they share. This duet is a beautiful reminder of the innocence of childhood and the wisdom that comes from a parent’s gentle guidance.
The song itself is a tender exchange, with Rory’s daughter asking whimsical, childlike questions about the world—questions that only a child could dream up, like “What if the sun stopped shining?” or “What if the fish stopped swimming?” Rory responds with poetic reassurances, weaving answers that are both comforting and profound. It’s a dialogue that feels so real, so intimate, that you can almost picture them sitting together, sharing this moment of connection.
What makes “Papa What If” so special is its authenticity. Rory Feek, known for his storytelling through music, brings his signature warmth and sincerity to the song. But it’s his daughter’s voice that truly steals the show. Her sweet, unpolished delivery adds a layer of innocence that makes the song feel even more genuine. It’s not about perfection—it’s about capturing a moment in time, a snapshot of their relationship that’s as pure as it gets.
The song also carries a timeless quality. Originally written by Shel Silverstein, a master of whimsical and heartfelt storytelling, “Papa What If” has been reimagined by Rory and his daughter in a way that feels deeply personal. It’s a testament to the power of music to bridge generations, as Rory takes this classic and makes it his own, sharing it with his daughter and, in turn, with all of us.
Listening to this duet is like being invited into their world for a few minutes. It’s a song that makes you smile, maybe even tear up, as it reminds you of the simple yet profound questions we all had as children—and the love and patience it takes to answer them. Whether you’re a parent, a child, or someone who cherishes the beauty of family, “Papa What If” will resonate with you on a deeply emotional level.
Video
Lyrics
If the sun stopped shinin’ you’d be so surprised
You’d stare at the heavens with wide open eyes
And the wind would carry your light to the skies
And the sun would start shinin’ again
(Daddy what if the wind stopped blowin’ what would happen then)
If the wind stopped blowin’ then the land would be dry
And your boat wouldn’t sail son and your kite wouldn’t fly
And the grass would see your troubles and she’d tell the wind
And the wind would start blowin’ again
(But daddy what if the grass stopped growin’ what would happen then)
If the grass stopped growin’ why you’d probably cry
And the ground would be watered by the tears from your eyes
And like your love for me the grass would grow so high
Yes the grass would start growin’ again
(But daddy what if I stopped lovin’ you what would happen then)
If you stopped lovin’ me then the grass would stop growin’
The sun would stop shinin’ and the wind would stop blowin’
So you see if you wanna keep this old world a goin’
You better start lovin’ me again again you better start lovin’ me again
You hear me Bobby you better start lovin’ me again
You love me Bobby you better start lovin’ me again