Father and Son Guitar Chords: Learn to Play this Cat Stevens Classic

“Father and Son” by Cat Stevens is a timeless classic, resonating with generations through its poignant exploration of generational differences and the bittersweet journey of growing up. This song, with its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody, is a fantastic choice for guitarists of all levels to learn and play. Here you’ll find the guitar chords to play “Father and Son”, making it easy to learn this iconic song and add it to your repertoire.

Intro Chords

|G C| |G C| G C| G C|

Verse 1

|G D/F#| |C Am7|
It's not time to make a change, just relax and take it easy
|G Em| |Am D|
You're still young, that's your fault, there's so much you have to know
|G D/F# | |C Am7|
Find a girl, settle down, if you want you can marry
|G Em| |Am Am7 D -|
Look at me, I am old, but I'm happy

Verse 2

|G D| | C Am7|
I was once like you are now, and I know that it's not easy
|G Em| | Am Am7 D -|
To be calm when you've found something going on
|G D| |C Am7|
But take your time, think a lot, why think of everything you've got
(5/4) |G Em D| (4/4) |G C| |G C|
For you will still be here tomorrow, but your dreams may not

Chorus

|G Bm| |C Am7|
How can I try to explain? 'cause when I do he turns away again
|G Em| | Am7 D|
It's always been the same, same old story
|G Bm| | C Am7|
From the moment I could talk I was ordered to listen
|G Em| |D G - -|
Now there's a way, and I know that I have to go away (3/4)|D - C | (4/4) |G C| |G C| . I know I have to go

Solo

|G D | C Am7| |G Em | Am7 D| |G D| C Am7| (5/4)|G Em D| (3/4) G |D C| (4/4) | G C| G C|

Verse 3

| G D| |C Am7|
It's not time to make a change, just sit down and take it slowly
| G Em| |Am D|
You're still young, that's your fault, there's so much you have to go through
|G D| |C Am7|
Find a girl, settle down, if you want, you can marry
|G Em| |Am Am7 D -|
Look at me, I am old, but I'm happy

Chorus

| G Bm| |C Am7|
All the times that I've cried, keeping all the things I knew inside
|G Em| |Am Am7 D - |
It's hard, but it's harder to ignore it
|G Bm| |C Am7|
If they were right, I'd agree, but it's them they know, not me
|G Em | (3/4) |D G - |
Now there's a way, and I know that I have to go away
|D - C | (4/4) G (hold)
I know I have to go

Learning “Father and Son” on guitar is a rewarding experience. These chords provide a straightforward way to play along with this iconic song. Practice each section and soon you’ll be able to play the entire song. Enjoy playing “Father and Son” and sharing this beautiful music!